CUET PG 2026 Complete Guide: Eligibility, Exam Pattern, Syllabus, and Preparation Tips

The Common University Entrance Test for Postgraduate (CUET PG) is one of the most important exams for students aiming to pursue master’s degree programs in central, state, and participating universities across India. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), CUET PG provides a single-window opportunity to apply for multiple universities without appearing for separate entrance tests.

If you are planning to appear for CUET PG 2026, this guide will help you with eligibility, syllabus, exam pattern, application process, and preparation strategy.

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What is CUET PG?

CUET PG is a national-level entrance exam conducted by NTA for admission into postgraduate courses offered by:

• Central Universities (like DU, JNU, BHU, etc.)

• State Universities

• Deemed Universities

• Private Universities participating in CUET

This test reduces the hassle of multiple entrance exams and provides a fair, transparent, and standardized admission process for all aspirants.

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CUET PG 2026: Important Dates (Tentative)

Here are the expected timelines for CUET PG 2026 based on previous year trends:

• Application Form Release: December 2025 – January 2026

• Last Date to Apply: February 2026

• Correction Window: February 2026

• Admit Card Release: March 2026

• Exam Dates: March – April 2026

• Results Announcement: May 2026

• Counseling and Admission: June – July 2026

(Exact dates will be announced by NTA at cuet.nta.nic.in)

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CUET PG 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, check whether you meet the eligibility requirements:

1. Educational Qualification

   • Candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree in the relevant discipline from a recognized university.

   • Final-year students (appearing in 2026) are also eligible to apply.

2. Minimum Marks Requirement

   • General Category: 50% aggregate in graduation.

   • OBC/EWS: 45% aggregate.

   • SC/ST/PwD: 40% aggregate.
     (May vary depending on the university and course chosen.)

3. Age Limit

   • No upper age limit. Candidates of any age can apply, provided they meet educational requirements.

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CUET PG 2026 Exam Pattern

The exam is conducted online (CBT mode) in multiple sessions.

• Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)

• Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)

• Number of Questions: 100 MCQs

• Marking Scheme:

  • +4 marks for each correct answer

  • -1 mark for each wrong answer

• Sections:

  • Section A: General Aptitude (Language, General Awareness, Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation)

  • Section B: Subject-specific questions (based on the discipline chosen)

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CUET PG 2026 Syllabus

The syllabus varies depending on the subject opted for. However, a general structure is as follows:

1. General Paper (Common for many courses)

   • English Comprehension

   • General Knowledge & Current Affairs

   • Reasoning Ability

   • Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation

2. Subject-Specific Paper

   • Based on the undergraduate syllabus of the respective subject.

   • Example: For M.Sc. Physics aspirants, UG-level Physics syllabus will be covered.

 Tip: Always check the official syllabus PDF released by NTA for your subject.

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CUET PG 2026 Application Process

Here’s how you can apply:

1. Visit the official website: cuet.nta.nic.in

2. Click on CUET PG 2026 Registration link.

3. Fill in personal and academic details.

4. Upload documents:

   • Passport-size photo

   • Signature

   • Category certificate (if applicable)

5. Pay application fee online.

6. Download confirmation page for future reference.

Application Fee (Expected for 2026):

• General: ₹1200 – ₹1500 (for 1 subject)

• OBC/EWS: ₹1000 approx.

• SC/ST/PwD: ₹800 approx.

(Exact fee structure will be notified in the official brochure.)

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CUET PG 2026 Preparation Strategy

1. Understand the Exam Pattern & Syllabus

   • Go through the official syllabus and analyze weightage of topics.

2. Make a Study Plan

   • Dedicate daily slots for General Aptitude and Subject-Specific preparation.

3. Use Standard Books

   • NCERTs for basics (if needed).

   • Subject-wise recommended PG entrance books.

4. Practice Previous Year Papers

   • Solve CUET PG past papers and mock tests to understand question trends.

5. Time Management

   • Practice solving 100 questions in 120 minutes to improve speed and accuracy.

6. Revision

   • Make short notes for quick revision before exam.

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CUET PG 2026 Admit Card & Exam Day Guidelines

• Admit card will be released 7–10 days before exam.

• Carry:

  • Admit Card printout

  • Valid Photo ID (Aadhar, Passport, Driving License)

  • Passport-size photo

• Reach exam centre at least 1 hour before reporting time.

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CUET PG 2026 Result & Counseling

• Results will be declared online at cuet.nta.nic.in.

• Scorecards will be released for individual candidates.

• Universities will announce their own cut-offs and merit lists based on CUET scores.

• Shortlisted candidates will be called for counseling and document verification.

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Top Universities Accepting CUET PG Scores

• Delhi University (DU)

• Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)

• Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

• Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)

• Hyderabad Central University (HCU)

• Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI)

• Several State and Private Universities across India

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FAQs on CUET PG 2026 (Expanded)

Q1. Can I apply for multiple courses in CUET PG 2026?
Yes, you can apply for multiple courses, but additional fees will be charged per subject.

Q2. Is CUET PG tougher than university-level exams?
CUET PG tests UG-level knowledge. With proper preparation, it is manageable compared to multiple university entrance exams.

Q3. How many times is CUET PG conducted in a year?
Once a year, usually between March–April.

Q4. Is there any negative marking in CUET PG 2026?
Yes, -1 mark will be deducted for every wrong answer.

Q5. Do all central universities accept CUET PG scores?
Yes, all central universities and many state/private universities will admit students through CUET PG 2026.

Q6. What is the validity of CUET PG scores?
CUET PG scores are valid for admission only for the academic session of 2026–27.

Q7. Can final-year UG students apply?
Yes, students in their final year of graduation can apply, but they must provide proof of passing the degree before admission.

Q8. Can I change my exam city after submitting the form?
No, the exam city choice is usually final. However, minor corrections may be allowed during the correction window.

Q9. Are there any reservation benefits in CUET PG 2026?
Yes, reservations are applicable as per government norms for SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwD candidates.

Q10. How can I prepare for the General Aptitude section?
Practice topics like English comprehension, reasoning, data interpretation, and current affairs using standard prep books and mock tests.

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Final Thoughts

CUET PG 2026 is a gateway to top universities in India, offering students a fair chance to secure admission into postgraduate programs. With the right preparation strategy, focus on subject-specific syllabus, and regular practice of mock tests, you can crack this exam successfully.

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