What You Need to Know About CUET Exam Pattern in 2026?

The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) has revolutionised the process of undergraduate admissions in central universities and various other well-known institutions in India. When you are getting ready to take CUET 2026, it is not only beneficial to know the exam pattern, but it is necessary. This blog goes in-depth on what the aspirants need to know about the CUET 2026 exam pattern, such as its structure, marking scheme, type of questions, and other important resources such as CUET question bank, CUET mock test books, and NTA CUET UG books 2026.

Be it planning your study routine or your strategy, this detailed guide will assist you in matching the anticipated trend of CUET 2026 to maximize your opportunity of scoring a high score.

Overview of CUET 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) will conduct the CUET UG 2026 exam, which will have the same structure as the previous years, with some minor changes to increase standardization.

Key Highlights:

CUET Exam Pattern 2026 – Complete Structure

The exam will be divided into three sections:

1. Section IA & IB – Language Test

2. Section II – Domain-Specific Subjects

3. Section III – General Test

Let’s break it down further:

💡 Note: Students can choose up to 10 subjects in total including languages, domain-specific subjects, and the general test.

Read More: CUET 2026 Preparation Guide: Syllabus, Pattern & Best Strategy

Understanding Each Section

Section I (Languages)

You can choose any language(s) from the list provided under IA and IB. This section tests reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and inference-based questions.

• Language choice is important for courses like BA (Hons), Journalism, etc.

• NTA CUET UG books 2026 often provide practice passages and previous pattern questions to get familiar.

Section II (Domain-Specific)

There are 27 subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Economics, Psychology, etc. You are allowed to pick up to 6 subjects.

• Questions are based on NCERT Class 12 syllabus.

• Practicing with a CUET question bank and CUET mock test books can help in mastering this section.

Section III (General Test)

This section is optional but required for some courses. It includes:

• General Knowledge

• Current Affairs

• Logical Reasoning

• Numerical Ability

• Quantitative Aptitude

• General Mental Ability

If you’re targeting courses like BBA, BCA, Hotel Management, or integrated programs, you’ll need to attempt this.

Marking Scheme of CUET 2026

Here’s how the scores will be calculated:

• Correct Answer: +5 marks

• Incorrect Answer: -1 mark (Negative Marking)

• Unanswered: 0 marks

So be strategic and practice from trusted sources like best books for CUET preparation 2026 to minimize errors.

Why Understanding the CUET Pattern Matters?

Grasping the CUET exam pattern will help you:

• Prioritize subjects

• Manage time effectively

• Build targeted revision plans

• Attempt mock papers aligned with the actual pattern

Practicing with CUET mock test books and CUET question bank aligned to the 2026 pattern builds speed and accuracy.

How Many Questions Should I Attempt in CUET 2026?

Although 50 or 60 questions are in each section, only a certain amount (such as 40 or 50) must be answered. As an example, when taking domain subjects, you will be provided with 50 questions but you only have to answer 40. This provides versatility and yet requires accuracy.

The first 40/50 questions (in order) would be taken into account in case you answered more than is necessary. Therefore, you have to be tactical in terms of what you are going to attempt first. Selective accuracy can be mastered through practicing on a CUET question bank.

Is CUET Conducted in Multiple Slots?

Yes, due to a large number of applicants, CUET is conducted in multiple shifts and days. The subjects are divided across slots.

Typically:

• Slot 1: Language + 2 Domain Subjects

• Slot 2: Up to 4 Domain Subjects + General Test

Your choice of subjects and universities determines your slot configuration.

Mock tests from CUET mock test books help simulate these slot-based test-taking scenarios.

Can I Skip the General Test in CUET?

You can skip Section III (General Test) if the program and university you’re applying to do not require it. However, many programs in BBA, Hotel Management, and Integrated MBA demand it.

Make sure to check university-specific eligibility criteria before skipping this section. Practice using the NTA CUET UG books 2026 to identify your weak areas.

Is CUET Difficult Compared to Other Exams?

CUET is based on the NCERT Class 12 level, so it is relatively conceptual and direct. However, its competitive nature (lakhs of students appearing) makes it challenging.

Time-bound practice from the best books for CUET preparation 2026 and the CUET question bank can help you master the exam with ease.

Can I Use Class 11 Syllabus for CUET Preparation?

While CUET focuses mainly on Class 12 topics, some foundational concepts from Class 11 do appear indirectly, especially in subjects like Physics and Chemistry. It’s best to stay focused on the Class 12 curriculum.

To align with the exam expectations, use CUET mock test books structured chapter-wise with class-wise segregation.

Tips to Align Your Preparation with CUET Pattern 2026

1. Pick Subjects Carefully

Understand the eligibility criteria of your desired course before choosing subjects. Choose subjects you’re confident in and that align with your strengths.

2. Make a Section-Wise Plan

• Languages: Daily reading and vocabulary practice.

• Domain Subjects: NCERT-based learning and revision using CUET question bank.

• General Test: Dedicate time for reasoning, current affairs, and mental ability.

3. Practice Mock Tests

• Attempt mock tests weekly and track your speed and accuracy.

• Use CUET mock test books that follow the latest NTA pattern.

4. Time Management

Practice with a timer. Each section has its own duration, and you can’t exceed it. Simulating the real test environment gives you an edge.

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Comparison of CUET Sections: Language vs Domain vs General Test

Final Words: Prepare Smart for CUET 2026

The CUET UG 2026 exam isn’t just another entrance test—it’s your gateway to top universities like DU, BHU, JNU, AMU, and more. Knowing the CUET exam pattern 2026 in-depth helps in effective planning, stress reduction, and smart execution.

By consistently practicing from NTA CUET UG books 2026, using a reliable CUET question bank, solving from the best books for CUET preparation 2026, and testing yourself using CUET mock test books, you can sharpen your approach and stand out from the crowd.

Let the pattern guide your preparation, and success will follow.