What Is CUET? Complete Guide to CUET for College Admissions

With major changes in India’s higher education admission system, one exam has become extremely important:

CUET (Common University Entrance Test)

Every year, lakhs of students search:

  • What is CUET?
  • Is CUET compulsory?
  • Which colleges accept CUET?
  • How is CUET different from board exams?

This article explains CUET clearly, step by step, without confusion.

What Is CUET?

CUET (Common University Entrance Test) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).

It is used for admission to undergraduate courses in:

CUET aims to provide one common platform for students from different boards.

Why Was CUET Introduced?

Earlier, college admissions were based mainly on board exam marks.

Problems with that system:

  • Different boards had different marking standards
  • Very high cut-offs (99–100%)
  • Unfair advantage to some boards

CUET was introduced to:

  • Create equal opportunity
  • Reduce board mark pressure
  • Standardize admission process

Is CUET Compulsory?

Yes, for many universities.

If you want admission to:

  • Central Universities (like DU, BHU, JNU, AMU, etc.)
  • Many reputed state universities

CUET is mandatory.

Some private universities may still have their own process, but CUET acceptance is increasing every year.

Which Colleges Accept CUET?

Major Universities Accepting CUET

  • Delhi University (DU)
  • Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
  • Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)
  • Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)
  • University of Hyderabad
  • Central Universities across India

Always check the university’s official brochure for confirmation.

Courses Offered Through CUET

CUET is used for admission to:

Different courses require different subject combinations.

CUET Exam Structure (Simplified)

CUET is divided into three sections:

Language Test

  • English or regional language
  • Reading comprehension
  • Vocabulary
  • Grammar 

Domain Subjects

  • Based on subjects studied in Class 12
  • Example: Economics, History, Physics, Biology, Accountancy, etc.

You must choose subjects relevant to your desired course.

General Test (Optional for Some Courses)

  • General knowledge
  • Current affairs
  • Logical reasoning
  • Basic mathematics

Not all courses require this section.

How CUET Is Different from Board Exams

Board Exams

CUET

Descriptive answers

Objective (MCQs)

Board-wise variation

Standard national exam

Marks-based admission

Rank/score-based admission

High cut-off pressure

Broader competition

CUET tests conceptual understanding, not rote learning.

How to Prepare for CUET?

Focus on NCERT

Most CUET questions are directly or indirectly based on NCERT syllabus.

Strengthen Basics

  • Clear concepts
  • Practice MCQs
  • Revise regularly

Practice Mock Tests

  • Improves speed
  • Builds exam confidence
  • Helps understand exam pattern

 Common Mistakes Students Make in CUET

❌ Choosing wrong subject combination
❌ Ignoring university-specific eligibility
❌ Focusing only on boards, not CUET
❌ Not practicing MCQs
❌ Late application or form mistakes

CUET and Board Exams: Which Is More Important?

Both matter, but for admission:

CUET score matters more than board percentage
(for CUET-based universities)

However, you must still pass Class 12 with required eligibility.

Should You Take CUET Seriously?

Absolutely.

CUET:

  • Opens doors to top universities
  • Reduces board pressure
  • Makes admission more transparent

For students aiming for DU, BHU, or central universities, CUET is a career-defining exam.

Final Thoughts

CUET has changed the admission landscape in India.

Students who:

  • Understand the exam early
  • Choose correct subjects
  • Prepare strategically

have a clear advantage.

At ExplainIt Clearly, our goal is simple:

Help students make informed decisions, not rushed ones.

Quick Summary

  • CUET is a national entrance exam
  • Mandatory for many top universities
  • Focuses on MCQs & NCERT
  • Levels the playing field
  • Preparation requires clarity, not panic

Also Read:

What to Do If CUET Score Is Low? Options, Strategy & Next Steps Explained Clearly

https://explainitclearly.blogspot.com/2025/12/what-to-do-if-cuet-score-is-low.html

Common CUET Mistakes That Cost Students Admission

https://explainitclearly.blogspot.com/2025/12/common-cuet-mistakes-that-cost-admission.html

CUET Guide for Parents (Very Important & High-Trust)

https://explainitclearly.blogspot.com/2025/12/cuet-guide-for-parents.html

DU Admission via CUET (Step-by-Step Guide)

 https://explainitclearly.blogspot.com/2025/12/du-admission-through-cuet.html 

CUET Preparation Strategy (Beginner-Friendly & Effective)

https://explainitclearly.blogspot.com/2025/12/how-to-prepare-for-cuet.html

How to Choose CUET Subject Combinations (Complete & Simple Guide)

https://explainitclearly.blogspot.com/2025/12/how-to-choose-cuet-subject-combinations.html
About the Author

Manish Kumar is an independent education and career writer who focuses on simplifying complex academic, policy, and career-related topics for Indian students.

Through Explain It Clearly, he explores career decision-making, education reform, entrance exams, and emerging opportunities beyond conventional paths—helping students and parents make informed, pressure-free decisions grounded in long-term thinking.

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