There are 3 Sections in CUET 2026, each has 250 marks.
Familiarising yourself with the CUET Exam Pattern 2026 is one of the most important steps in your preparation. Knowing the structure, type of questions, sectional time limits, and marking scheme will help you plan better and score higher.
Why Understanding the CUET Exam Pattern is Important?
Gives you clarity on the type and structure of questions.
Helps you prepare for sectional time limits.
Allows you to understand the marking scheme and strategize accordingly.
CUET Exam Pattern 2026 – Key Highlights
Particulars
Details
Conducting Body
National Testing Agency (NTA)
Mode of Exam
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Question Pattern
Objective Type – MCQs
Medium of Exam
13 Languages
Maximum No. of Tests
5
Domain Subjects
23
Total Questions per Paper
50
Duration per Paper
60 Minutes
Total Marks per Paper
250
👉 According to the latest CUET pattern, students can choose a maximum of 5 subjects. The total marks and duration vary depending on the subject choices.
CUET Exam Pattern 2026 – Section-Wise Breakdown
Section 1: Language Papers
Aspect
Details
Subjects/Tests
13 Languages
Total Questions
50
Questions to Attempt
50
Duration
60 Minutes
Total Marks
250
Section 2: Domain-Specific Papers
Aspect
Details
Subjects/Tests
23 Domain Subjects
Total Questions
50
Questions to Attempt
50
Duration
60 Minutes
Total Marks
250
Section 3: General Aptitude Test
Aspect
Details
Subjects/Tests
1 Paper
Total Questions
50
Questions to Attempt
50
Duration
60 Minutes
Total Marks
250
CUET Marking Scheme 2026
Particulars
Details
Correct Answer
+5 Marks
Incorrect Answer
-1 Mark
Unattempted Answer
0 Marks
Additional Rules:
If more than one option is correct → (+5) marks for marking any of the correct answers.
If all options are correct → (+5) marks to all who attempted.
If a question is incorrect/dropped → (+5) marks to all who attempted.
Class 12th NCERT-based syllabus of chosen subjects
General Test
General Knowledge, Current Affairs, Environment Literacy, Numerical & Mental Ability, Logical & Analytical Reasoning, Basic Mathematics
👉 The exam pattern is the same across all participating universities.
How to Choose a Good CUET Subject Combination?
Check course-specific eligibility of your target university.
Align your interests with the chosen course.
Assess your academic strengths and weaknesses.
Consider your career goals.
Check for availability of study resources & CUET preparation books.
Pick subjects with future demand & career opportunities.
Take guidance from mentors, teachers, or counsellors.
CUET Preparation Tips 2026
Focus Area
Action Plan
Understand Pattern & Syllabus
Familiarize with sections and weightage to prioritise study.
Time Management
Practice solving within time limits to increase speed.
Reference Books
Use expert-recommended books.
NCERT First
Focus on NCERTs for strong basics.
Study Plan
Follow a realistic, consistent study routine.
PYPs & Mock Tests
Solve previous year papers and attempt mocks regularly.
Health & Balance
Sleep well, eat healthy, and take short breaks for focus.
Key Takeaways
CUET UG exam will be held in CBT mode with MCQs only.
5 subjects maximum can be chosen, including languages, domain subjects, and general test.
Each section carries 250 marks with +5/-1 marking scheme.
The syllabus is NCERT-based for domain papers, while the general test checks reasoning, GK, and aptitude.
Thorough knowledge of the exam pattern will help you score high and secure admission in top CUET universities.
✨ Pro Tip: Join expert-led CUET coaching programs to select the right subjects, access quality study material, and practice with structured mock tests.
Join CUET 2026 