The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) UG 2026 is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission into undergraduate programs across various central, state, and participating universities in India. Introduced to streamline the admission process and ensure a uniform platform for students, CUET UG has become a crucial gateway to prestigious institutions such as Delhi University, Banaras Hindu University, Aligarh Muslim University, and many others.
With competition growing each year, understanding the CUET UG syllabus 2026 is essential for effective preparation. The syllabus is designed to evaluate a student’s proficiency in Language, Domain-specific Subjects, and General Test components, as per the NCERT Class 12 curriculum. It ensures fairness and inclusivity for students from diverse educational backgrounds.
This article provides a detailed overview of the CUET UG 2026 syllabus, covering subject-wise topics, important changes (if any), and strategic tips for exam preparation. Whether you’re a science, commerce, or humanities student, a thorough grasp of the syllabus will help you prioritize topics and plan a structured study approach. Read on to get the complete breakdown and get one step closer to your dream university.
CUET UG Syllabus 2026
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the official CUET UG 2026 syllabus, structured into three main sections:
Section I: Language Tests (IA & IB)
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Languages Offered: 13 languages, including English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.
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Syllabus Focus:
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Reading Comprehension (factual, literary, and narrative passages)
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Vocabulary and Grammar
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Verbal Ability, Synonyms & Antonyms
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Sentence Rearrangement
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Section II: Domain-Specific Subjects
Candidates can select up to 5 subjects relevant to their intended undergraduate programs. The subjects encompass:
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Science & Mathematics:
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Physics
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Chemistry
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Biology / Biotechnology / Biochemistry
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Mathematics / Applied Mathematics
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Environmental Science
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Commerce & Business:
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Accountancy / Book-Keeping
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Business Studies
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Economics / Business Economics
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Humanities & Social Sciences:
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History
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Political Science
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Psychology
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Sociology
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Home Science
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Anthropology
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Knowledge Tradition – Practices in India
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Arts & Media:
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Fine Arts / Visual Arts / Commercial Arts
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Mass Media / Mass Communication
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Performing Arts (Dance, Drama, Music)
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Technology & Computer Science:
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Computer Science / Informatics Practices
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Physical Education & Yoga:
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Physical Education (Yoga, Sports)
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The syllabus for these subjects aligns with the NCERT Class 12 curriculum.
Section III: General Aptitude Test (Optional)
This section evaluates candidates on:
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General Knowledge (History, Geography, Politics)
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Current Affairs (National and International)
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Quantitative Reasoning (Basic Math up to Grade 8)
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Logical and Analytical Reasoning
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General Science & Environmental Literacy
CUET UG Syllabus 2026 PDF Download Link
Candidates may choose up to a maximum of five (05) subjects, including languages and the General Aptitude Test, irrespective of the subjects opted in class 12. The paper will have questions on these subjects only. Check out the direct link to download the CUET UG Syllabus PDF given below
| CUET UG Syllabus and Notification 2026 PDF |
NTA CUET Syllabus 2026 for Science Students
CUET syllabus 2026 for science students differs depending on the subjects taken. For students with a science background, NTA provides basic disciplines such as Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Economics, General Tests, and Languages. Candidates must carefully map the CUET subjects based on the course they plan to apply for. The CUET Science Syllabus 2026for Math, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology is briefly shared below.
Biology (Subject Code- 304)
The CUET Biology syllabus for 2026 is separated into five units, with categories of botany and zoology sections. Refer to the units of the biology section below.
- Unit 1: Reproduction
- Unit 2: Genetics and Evolution
- Unit 3: Biology and Human Welfare
- Unit 4: Biotechnology and Its Application
- Unit 5: Ecology and Environment
Mathematics/ Math (Subject Code – 319)
The CUET Mathematics syllabus for 2026 will be divided into two sections, A and B (B1 and B2). Section A will contain 15 questions (all of which are compulsory), and Section B1 will have 35 Mathematics questions, of which candidates must answer 25. The B2 segment will consist of 35 Applied Mathematics questions, of which candidates must complete 25. Refer to the table below to learn about the detailed syllabus for CUET Math:
| Section A | Section B2- Applied Mathematics | Section B1- Mathematics |
| Unit 1: Algebra | Unit 1- Numbers, Quantification and Numerical Applications | Unit 1- Relations and Functions |
| Unit 2: Calculus | Unit 2- Algebra | Unit 2- Algebra |
| Unit 3: Integration and its Application | Unit 3- Calculus | Unit 3- Calculus |
| Unit 4: Differential Equation | Unit 4- Probability and Distribution | Unit 4- Vectors and three dimensional Geometry |
| Unit 5: Probability Distribution | Unit 5- Index Numbers and Time Based Data | Unit 5- Linear Programming |
| Unit 6: Linear Programming | Unit 6- Index Numbers And Time Based Data | Unit 6- Probability |
| Unit 7- Index Numbers And Time Based Data | ||
| Unit 8- Financial Mathematics | ||
| Unit 9- Linear Programming |
Chemistry (Subject Code 306)
The CUET Chemistry syllabus for 2026 covers inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry. Some of the key themes for the CUET Chemistry subject are:
- Solid State
- Solutions
- Electrochemistry
- Chemical Kinetics
- Surface Chemistry
- General Principles and Processes of Isolation of Elements
- p-Block Elements
- d and f Block Elements
- Coordination Compounds
- Haloalkanes and Haloarenes
- Alcohols, Phenols, and Ethers
- Aldehydes, Ketones, and Carboxylic Acid
- Organic Compounds Containing Nitrogen
- Biomolecules
- Polymers
- Chemistry in Everyday Life
Physics (Subject Code- 322)
The Physics Syllabus of CUET will cover fundamental concepts from the class 11 and 12 standards collectively. Refer to the list below for significant CUET Physics topics.
- Electrostatics
- Current Electricity
- Magnetic Effects of Current and Magnetism
- Electromagnetic Induction and Alternating Currents
- Electromagnetic Waves
- Optics
- Dual Nature of Matter and Radiation
- Atoms and Nuclei
- Electronic Devices
- Communication Systems
CUET Syllabus 2026 for Arts Students
The CUET Arts Syllabus 2026 assesses applicants’ analytical abilities, logical thinking, grasp of the humanities, aptitude, and knowledge in the Arts and Humanities stream. History, Political Science, Sociology, Economics, Geography, and Psychology are some of the core courses taught in the Arts/Humanities stream. To master the syllabus, students must join CUET UG Best Arts Online Coaching, which will help them kick-start their preparation with expert mentors.
Please find the detailed CUET UG Exam syllabus for Arts Students below:
History (Subject code- 314)
The Major chapters of the CUET History Syllabus are listed below.
- The Story of the First Cities: Harappan Archaeology
- Political and Economic History: How Inscriptions tell a story
- Social Histories using the Mahabharata
- A History of Buddhism: Sanchi Stupa
- Medieval society through Travellers’ Accounts
- Religious Histories: The Bhakti-Sufi Tradition
- New Architecture: Hampi
- Agrarian Relations : The Ain-i-Akbari
- The Mughal Court: Reconstructing Histories through Chronicles
- Colonialism and Rural Society: Evidence from Official Reports
- Representations of 1857
- The Making of the Constitution
Psychology (Subject code- 324)
The CUET Psychology syllabus examines knowledge in foundational areas of psychology, critical thinking abilities, and comprehension of key psychological ideas. Some of the main themes in CUET psychology are:
- Variations in Psychological Attributes
- Self and Personality
- Meeting Life Challenges
- Psychological Disorders
- Therapeutic Approaches
- Attitude and Social Cognition
- Social Influence and Group Processes
- Psychology and Life
- Developing Psychological Skills
Geography (Subject code- 313)
Learn about the important topics covered under the CUET Geography syllabus.
- Fundamentals of Human Geography
- India: People and Economy
- Human Geography: Nature and Scope
- People
- Human Activities
- Transport, Communication, and Trade
- Human Settlements
Political Science (Subject code- 323)
The CUET political science Syllabus is broken into two parts: Politics in India since Independence and Contemporary World Politics. Check out the following major subjects covered in the CUET 2026 Syllabus for Political Science:
- The era of One-Party Dominance
- Nation-Building and Its Problems
- Politics of Planned Development
- Cold War Era in World Politics
- Disintegration of the ‘Second World’ and the Collapse of Bipolarity
- US Dominance in World Politics: Growth of Unilateralism
CUET Syllabus 2026 for Commerce Students
The CUET Commerce Syllabus 2026 is now available for students preparing for entrance exams in subjects like Business Studies, Accounting, Economics, and Mathematics. If you’re planning to take CUET in any of these commerce domains, it’s the perfect time to check out the detailed syllabus and start your prep with confidence. Knowing the syllabus in advance helps you focus on the right topics and study smart. Whether you’re aiming for top colleges or just want to stay ahead, exploring the updated CUET Commerce syllabus is your first step toward success.
Business Studies (Subject code- 305)
The CUET Business Studies Syllabusassesses students’ comprehension of accounting principles, management principles, and organisational behaviour. Check out some of the main topics taught in the CUET Business Studies syllabus:
- Business Environment
- Planning
- Organising
- Staffing
- Directing
- Controlling
- Business Finance
- Marketing
Accounts/ Accountancy (Subject Code -301)
Below, we have shared the crucial Topics that are covered in the CUET accountancy syllabus for commerce students:
- Accounting Not-for-Profit Organisation
- Accounting for Partnership
- Reconstitution of Partnership
- Dissolution of a Partnership Firm
- Accounting for Share and Debenture Capital
- Analysis of Financial Statements
- Statement of Changes in Financial Position
CUET Syllabus for Economics Syllabus
Students interested in pursuing B.A Hons. Economics or B.Sc. Economics students should improve their skills using the CUET Economics syllabus (Subject code- 309). Refer to the table below to examine the CUET UG Syllabus for Economics.
- Introduction to Microeconomics
- Consumer Behavior and Demand
- National Income and Related Aggregates — Basic Concepts and Measurement
- Determination of Income and Employment
- Money and Banking
- Government Budget and the Economy
- Development Experience of India
CUET UG Exam Pattern 2026
The CUET UG 2026 (Common University Entrance Test for Undergraduate courses) exam pattern is expected to remain similar to the 2025 pattern, as per the latest updates by the NTA (National Testing Agency). Here’s the detailed exam pattern:
CUET UG 2026 Exam Pattern Overview
| Section | Subjects/Topics | No. of Questions | To Be Attempted | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section I-A | 13 Languages (e.g., Hindi, English) | 50 | 40 | 45 minutes |
| Section I-B | 20 Additional Languages | 50 | 40 | 45 minutes |
| Section II | 27 Domain-specific Subjects | 50 | 40 | 45 minutes |
| Section III | General Test (for vocational/open courses) | 60 | 50 | 60 minutes |
Key Highlights
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Medium of the Exam: Multiple languages (13 major Indian languages + English).
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Question Type: Objective Type, Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
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Marking Scheme:
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Correct Answer: +5 marks
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Incorrect Answer: -1 mark (negative marking)
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Unattempted: 0 marks
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Total Papers a Student Can Choose:
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Up to 10 subjects, including:
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2 languages (max),
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6 domain-specific subjects,
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1 general test (optional, depending on university/course requirements).
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Subject Choices
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Languages (Section I-A & I-B): English, Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, etc.
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Domain Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Maths, History, Economics, Business Studies, Accountancy, Political Science, etc.
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General Test: Logical Reasoning, General Awareness, Numerical Ability, Current Affairs, etc.
CUET UG 2026 Syllabus & Best Books
Section I: Language (English Example) Syllabus (English):
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Reading Comprehension (Factual, Literary, Narrative)
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Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms)
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Grammar (Tenses, Subject-Verb Agreement, Prepositions, etc.)
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Verbal Ability
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Rearranging parts of a sentence
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Choosing the correct word
Best Books:
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“High School English Grammar & Composition” by Wren & Martin
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“Objective General English” by S.P. Bakshi (Arihant)
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NCERT Class 10–12 English Books
Section II: Domain-Specific Subjects
Here’s the syllabus and book list for a few popular subjects. Let me know if you need others too.
1. Physics
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Laws of Motion, Work-Energy, Kinematics
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Thermodynamics, Electrostatics, Magnetic Effects
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Current Electricity, Optics, Modern Physics
Books:
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NCERT Physics Class 11 & 12
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DC Pandey (Arihant Series)
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Oswaal CUET Physics Question Bank
2. Chemistry
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Atomic Structure, States of Matter, Thermodynamics
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Equilibrium, Organic Chemistry, Coordination Compounds
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Electrochemistry, Surface Chemistry
Books:
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NCERT Chemistry Class 11 & 12
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OP Tandon (Physical + Organic)
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Oswaal CUET Chemistry Guide
3. Mathematics
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Sets, Relations & Functions
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Calculus, Probability, Vectors & 3D Geometry
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Matrices, Determinants, Statistics
Books:
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NCERT Mathematics Class 11 & 12
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RD Sharma Objective Book
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Arihant CUET Mathematics Guide
4. Political Science
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Cold War, UN, Globalization
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Indian Constitution, Federalism, Elections, Political Parties
Books:
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NCERT Political Science Class 11 & 12
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Oswaal CUET Political Science Question Bank
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Arihant CUET Political Science
5. Business Studies
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Principles of Management
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Marketing, Business Environment
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Planning, Staffing, Controlling
Books:
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NCERT Business Studies Class 11 & 12
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CUET Business Studies by Oswaal or Arihant
Section III: General Test Syllabus:
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General Knowledge & Current Affairs
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Logical Reasoning & Analytical Ability
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Numerical Ability (Basic Math up to Class 10)
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Quantitative Reasoning (Simple equations, time-speed-distance, etc.)
Best Books:
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Lucent’s General Knowledge
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Arihant CUET General Test
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Oswaal CUET GT Guide
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Pearson’s Logical Reasoning
Syllabus-Wise Preparation Strategy
1. Language (Section IA & IB)
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Focus areas: Reading Comprehension (Factual, Literary, Narrative), Vocabulary, Grammar
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Preparation Tips:
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Read English newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express) daily.
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Practice unseen passages.
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Revise grammar rules (tenses, prepositions, subject-verb agreement).
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Improve vocabulary using flashcards or apps like Quizlet.
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2. Domain-Specific Subjects (Section II)
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Subjects include: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology, Economics, Business Studies, Accountancy, History, Geography, Political Science, etc.
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Tips:
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Stick to NCERT textbooks (Class 12 and Class 11) – these are the core reference material.
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Focus on concept clarity rather than rote memorization.
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Practice MCQs daily based on each chapter.
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Solve PYQs (Previous Year Questions) of CUET and relevant boards.
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For numerical subjects (Maths, Physics), solve examples and previous years’ numericals regularly.
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3. General Test (Section III)
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Topics include:
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General Knowledge & Current Affairs
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Logical Reasoning (Verbal & Non-Verbal)
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Numerical Ability (Simplification, Ratio, Percentage, Profit & Loss, etc.)
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Tips:
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Read daily current affairs (follow monthly magazines like Pratiyogita Darpan or apps like Gradeup).
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Practice mental ability and logical reasoning from books like RS Aggarwal’s Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning.
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Revise basic arithmetic (10th-level math) regularly.
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Smart Preparation Tips
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Choose subjects wisely based on your intended UG course.
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Maintain a CUET Notes Folder – keep formula sheets, current affairs, and vocabulary.
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Mock Test every week – analyze performance and improve.
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Use online resources (like NTA’s official website or CUET preparation apps).
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Track your progress using a study planner or habit tracker.
Best Books for CUET UG 2026 Preparation
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Language: Arihant’s CUET English, Wren & Martin (Grammar)
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Domain Subjects: NCERTs + Arihant/Oswaal CUET books
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General Test: Oswaal’s General Test Book, RS Aggarwal (Quant + Reasoning)
FAQs
1. What is the CUET UG 2026 exam?
The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) UG 2026 is a national-level entrance exam for undergraduate admissions to central, state, and participating universities in India. It is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
2. What are the main sections of the CUET UG 2026 syllabus?
The CUET UG 2026 syllabus is divided into four main sections:
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Section IA & IB: Language Tests (13 languages in IA + 20 in IB)
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Section II: Domain-Specific Subjects (27 subjects)
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Section III: General Test (optional, based on university requirement)
3. Is the CUET syllabus based on NCERT?
Yes, the CUET UG 2026 domain-specific syllabus is strictly based on the Class 12 NCERT syllabus. For preparation, refer to NCERT textbooks of the respective subjects.
4. How many subjects can I choose in CUET UG 2026?
A candidate can choose:
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Up to 6 domain subjects
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2 languages (maximum)
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1 General Test
Note: The choice depends on the requirements of the universities you’re applying to.
5. What subjects are available in the domain section (Section II)?
There are 27 domain subjects, including:
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Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics
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Accountancy, Business Studies, Economics
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History, Political Science, Geography
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Psychology, Sociology, Computer Science, etc.
6. Is the General Test compulsory?
The General Test (Section III) is optional. Only take it if the university/course you’re applying to requires it. It includes questions from:
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General Knowledge
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Current Affairs
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General Mental Ability
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Numerical Ability
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Logical & Analytical Reasoning
7. What is the exam pattern for CUET UG 2026?
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Language Test: 40 questions out of 50
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Domain Subjects: 40 questions out of 50
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General Test: 50 questions out of 60
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All questions are MCQs
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Each correct answer gives +5 marks, and -1 for wrong answers
8. Can I attempt CUET UG 2026 in Hindi or other regional languages?
Yes, the exam is offered in 13 languages, including Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu, Assamese, Punjabi, Bengali, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Gujarati, and Odia.
9. Where can I find the official CUET UG 2026 syllabus?
You can download the official syllabus from the NTA CUET website:
https://cuet.samarth.ac.in
10. What are the best books to prepare for CUET UG 2026?
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NCERT Class 12 textbooks (for domain subjects)
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Arihant’s CUET series (for practice papers)
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Oswaal CUET question banks
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Lucent GK (for General Test)
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RS Aggarwal (for Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning)