Shruti GargAssistant Manager- Editorial
CUET preparation is crucial given the competitive nature of the exam, which is taken by over 10 lakh candidates. CUET UG 2025 exam will be held in third week of May 2025. Students must plan their CUET UG 2025 preparation accordingly. Students must prepare well and study to score well on the exam. Read on to learn how to schedule your time to prepare for the exam, major topics to prepare from and more!
CUET is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to over 250 universities out of which there are 41 Central Universities, 36 State Universities, 29 Deemed Universities, 110 Private Universities, and three other universities.
Q: What is the difficulty level of the CUET exam?
The difficulty level of the CUET exam ranges from moderate to tough. Since the CUET UG exam is held for multiple subjects and slots, the difficulty level of the exam varies from subject to subject. Sometimes, the difficulty level may also vary for different slots. The difficulty level of exam is also relative and the same exam's level of difficulty may vary for different candidates. While for the well prepared candidates, the difficulty level will be low, for the underprepared students, the level of difficulty will be on the higher side.
Q: What type of questions are asked in the CUET exam?
The CUET questions are objective and carries multiple choices (MCQs). Each question will have four answer options. Candidates will have to choose the correct answer option and click on it with the help of mouse. Since CUET UG 2025 exam will be conducted in a CBT mode, test-takers will be able to mark only one answer option. In case it is the correct option, they will get full marks and in case of wrong answer, negative marking scheme will be applied. Hence, candidates must ensure the accuracy of the answer before selecting the answer. Before the final submission, they can change the answer option in case they realise that they have entered a wrong answer option earlier.
Q: What is the CUET exam duration for each subject?
As per the CUET exam pattern, the subjects are divided into three sections as:
Section IA and IB- Languages
Section II- Domain Subject
Section III- General Test
Candidates will get 45 minutes for each subject. However, in subjects like Accountancy, Economics, Physics, Computer Science / Informatics Practices, Chemistry and Mathematics / Applied Mathematics and General Test, the duration of the exam will be 60 minutes. Candidates can choose any 10 subjects while filling the CUET application form. However, they must check the eligibility criteria of the university and programme they wish to apply for.
Step Wise CUET preparation
Step 1: Go through the CUET syllabus 2025 thoroughly.
Step 2: Understand the CUET exam pattern and marking scheme and prepare accordingly.
Step 3: Get all the study material for CUET such as prep books and previous years' question papers to help better understand what to expect in the exam.
Step 4: Create a monthly timetable on how much material to cover on a daily basis.
Step 5: Solve question papers, sample papers and mock tests.
Also Read: CUET 2025 Last-Minute Preparation Strategy and Tips
How to prepare for CUET?
CUET is an all-India entrance exam that is highly competitive and candidates appearing for the exam need to have a strategy and aim in order to score well and qualify. Aspirants can go through the following prep strategy methods while preparing for CUET.
CUET exam pattern is such that question papers for almost all the courses contain a total of 160 multiple-choice questions out of which candidates have to attempt around 130 questions within three hours duration. The total number of questions has changed as compared to last year.
Candidates can refer to the table below for further clarification:
The table below brings the broad structure of the exam in terms of the number of questions in each section along with the duration.
Section |
Number of Questions |
Question Types |
---|---|---|
Section IA |
40 questions to be attempted out of 50 in each language |
Language to be tested through Reading Comprehension based on different types of passages–Factual, Literary and Narrative, (Literary Aptitude and Vocabulary) |
Section IB |
||
Section II |
35/40 Questions to be attempted out of 45/50 |
|
Section III |
50 Questions to be attempted out of 60 |
|
Marking scheme: Candidates will be awarded five marks for each correct answer. There will be a negative marking of -1 mark for each incorrect answer. No marks will be awarded or deducted for unattempted questions.
To perform well in the CUET test, candidates have to thoroughly go through the syllabus. Aspirants need to strategise their plans on a monthly, weekly and daily basis. There is no success without hard work and in order to qualify for the entrance exam, candidates can prepare better by knowing which topics to cover in-depth and which require superficial knowledge. The candidate can do so as per the below-mentioned pointers:
- Make a list of topics, subject wise
- Segregate the subjects and topics into easy and difficult as per personal experience.
- Note down topics that will carry maximum weightage (as per previous year’s question papers).
Go through the Preparation books
In order to perform well in the CUET exam, candidates need to make a list of books from which they should study for the entrance exam. Candidates are advised to purchase at least two to three prep books for CUET, depending on the course applied for. The books can help aspirants determine which topics to cover and study along with what to expect for the entrance exam. For the programme applied for, candidates need only buy the books according to the course.
Prepare a TimeTable
Candidates need to make a timetable on what topics to cover when, which subjects require high priority and how much to cover on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. Aspirants are advised to create a daily plan and while preparing a timetable, special attention should be given to completing the CUET syllabus. Revise the syllabus and content, attempt as many question papers, mock papers and previous years' question papers to better help prepare. Through this, a candidate can have a fair idea of what to expect in the entrance exam.
Refer to Past Year’s Question Papers
Candidates appearing for the CUET 2023 exam are advised to solve the last five years question papers to help better understand the exam pattern and format of questions that will be asked in the entrance exam. Through the previous questions, candidates can understand which subjects are given high importance and topics which can help the aspirant score better in the exam.
Solve sample papers and Mock tests
The best way for a candidate to know their strengths and weakness is by solving question papers, sample papers and mock tests. Through this, candidates can also figure out the best approach to be followed when they head out to attempt the actual CUET question paper. From formulating time management to understanding the format of the paper, solving sample papers can help candidates prepare better for the entrance exam.
Q: Does the CUET syllabus also include chapters from Class 11?
No, the CUET 2025 syllabus does not include the chapters or topics from Class 11 syllabus. The exam, which is conducted for multiple subjects and languages, has to be prepared by completing the Class 12 syllabus only. NTA has also released the subject-wise syllabus of the CUET UG 2025 exam, which will be held in third week of May in hybrod mode. However, students may refer to the Class 11 syllabus for better conceptual clarity and to make the base of the domain subjects stronger. But as far as the actual syllabus is concerned, it will only be based on Class 12 CBSE or NCERT syllabus.
Q: How do I prepare for CUET UG and Board examinations?
The syllabus for CUET UG domain subjects will be based on class 12th to reduce the stress of preparing for both the exams. To prepare for CUET UG and Board examination, here are few important tips:
- Start early preparation for CUET UG and board exams. This will give you enough time to cover the syllabus, practice the questions, and get familiar with the exam pattern.
- Create a study plan: Once you are familiar with the syllabus for both exams, create a study plan that will help you cover all the topics in a systematic manner. Make sure to allocate enough time for each subject and topic.
- Focus on the subjects that you are struggling with. Consider taking a few practice CUET UG tests to see where you stand.
- Manage your time effectively. Practice answering questions under timed conditions so that you can get used to the pressure of the exam.
- Use the right resources. There are many resources available to help you prepare for the CUET UG and board exams. These include NCERT textbooks, practice questions, and mock tests. Use the resources that work best for you and that will help you improve your knowledge and skills.
Q: How to prepare for General Test and English, CUET?
The first step for any subject preparation is to comprehensively understand the syllabus. Hence, take a print out of the syllabuses for get and English from the official CUET website. For get: Make a realistic plan/timetable and try to stick to it. Divide your preparation in phases. In the 1st phase, prepare your entire syllabus, schedule your mock practice in the 2nd phase and keep revision + mock practice in the 3rd phase. Start your preparation by focusing on a subject that you find challenging. Keep the Current Affairs preparation parallel to Quants/LR. Solve Previous Year Papers. For English Establish a daily newspaper reading habit. Mark out words unknown to you and search out their meanings, synonym-antonyms. Practice a lot of Reading Comprehension. And lastly, appear for mocks.
Books to read for CUET preparation
Candidates must prepare every topic from prep books as it will students clear doubts as well as understand the subjects thoroughly.
Books |
Author |
---|---|
A Problem Book in Mathematical Analysis |
GN Berman |
Concepts of Physics |
HC Verma |
A Textbook of Organic Chemistry |
RK Gupta |
Higher Algebra |
Hall & Knight |
Problems in Calculus of One Variable |
IA Maron |
Objective Biology |
Dinesh |
International Economics |
Bo Soderstien and Geoffrey Reed |
Indian Economy: Performance & Policies |
Uma, Kapila |
ABC Chemistry |
S.P. Jauhar |
Methodology and Perspectives of Social Science |
Abhijit Kundu |
Elementary Mathematics |
DoroFeev Patapov |
International Economics |
Dominick Salvatore |
A Class-book Botany |
AC Dutta |
Economics |
Lipsey R. and A Chrytal |
Fundamental Methods of Mathematical Economics |
Chiang A.C. and K. Wainwright |
Also Read: CUET UG 2024 Books and Study Materials
Q: Are NCERT books enough to cover CUET syllabus?
Since the CUET syllabus is in line with the Class 12 Board exam syllabus, it can be safely assumed that the NCERT books are enough to cover the syllabus of the exam. Candidates must note that, CUET exam tests students' understanding of the concepts and ability to apply them in various situations.
Therefore, to prepare well and get a good score, it is advised that students refer to other study materials and books designed for national level competitive entrance exams. The CUET UG syllabus is in tune with the Class 12 Board exam syllabus. The chapters and topics are similar to Class 12 syllabus. Unlike other UG entrance exams, CUET UG syllabus does not include Class 11 syllabus.
Q: How to develop general knowledge and crack the general test paper for CUET?
CUET Topper Tips
According to last year's toppers, the best methods of CUET UG 2025 preparation include referring to the right books, taking regular mock tests and solving previous years' CUET question papers and following a disciplined and systematic approach. According to the toppers, NCERT is the best source of preparation. Once the syllabus is completed, students must go through revision. After this, they should take regular mock tests to understand their preparation level and also analyse to device a preparation strategy to improve their performance at the exam. Shiksha.com has interviewed the CUET UG 2023 toppers Read the interviews below to know their success mantras.
Read Success Stories below:
- CUET 2023 Topper Sufi Siddharth Kabir, 100%iler, aspires to study Political Science from Delhi University
- CUET 2023 Topper Interview- Prarthana Drolia, 100 percentiler says, “Be consistent in your studies”
- Know how CUET Topper 2023 Parinita Bisht secured 799.86 marks without any coaching
- Know how CUET Topper 2023 Diya Bhargava secure 100 percentile with 4-5 hours of self-study
- CUET Topper 2023 Kartikay Mendiratta with 794 marks says, "NCERT books are no doubt the best books to use"
- CUET Topper 2023 Irijaya Dash wants to join Miranda House; Know her CUET UG prep strategy
- CUET Topper 2023 Sejal Gupta Says, Strong Preparation for Class 12th Exams Leads to CUET Readiness
- CUET 2023 Topper Prabuddh Dubey, 100%iler, aims to study Economics from Delhi University
- CUET Topper 2023 Katyayini Madeti aims for Hindu College with 799.6 marks; Check out her CUET prep strategy
- CUET Topper 2023 Vanshika Gupta targets SRCC; Know her CUET UG prep strategy, tips & more
- CUET 2023 Topper Divija Bansal, 100%iler, wants to pursue BCom (Hons) from SRCC
FAQs Regarding CUET Preparation
Check frequently asked questions on CUET preparation below:
Q: How to prepare for CUET?
Candidates are advised to strongly go through the syllabus and should understand the exam pattern and marking scheme carefully. Candidates should also solve various sample papers, mock tests and previous years' question papers. Accor to a CUET Topper, here are some simple way to prepare for the exam. According to last year's toppers, the best methods of CUET UG 2025 preparation include referring to the right books, taking regular mock tests and solving previous years' CUET question papers and following a disciplined and systematic approach. According to the toppers, NCERT is the best source of preparation. Once the syllabus is completed, students must go through revision. After this, they should take regular mock tests to understand their preparation level and also analyse to device a preparation strategy to improve their performance at the exam.
Q: What is the medium of CUET UG?
Common University Entrance Test (CUET) UG is conducted Assamese, Bengali, English, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Punjabi, Odia, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu languages. Candidates must note that the selection of medium will be restricted to state/UTs. Refer the table below to know the mediums restricte to respective state/UTs:
Language | Examination Centres |
---|---|
English | All examination centres |
English and Hindi | All examination centres |
English and Assamese | Examination centres in Assam |
English and Bengali | Examination centres in West Bengal, Tripura, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands |
English and Gujarati | Examination centres in Gujarat, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu |
English and Kannada | Examination centres in Karnataka |
English and Malayalam | Examination centres in Kerala and Lakshadweep |
English and Marathi | Examination centres in Maharashtra |
English and Odia | Examination centres in Odisha |
English and Punjabi | Examination centres in Punjab, Chandigarh and Delhi/New Delhi (Including Faridabad, Gurugram, Ghaziabad, Meerut, Noida/Greater Noida) |
English and Tamil | Examination centres in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Andaman and Nicobar Islands |
English and Telugu | Examination centres in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana |
English and Urdu | All examination centres in India |
Q: What are the important rules that candidates need to take care of during the examination?
Q: What are the important topics for B.Com Honors in CUET? How to prepare only in 1 month for the exam?
Q: How can I prepare in these last days of preparation of CUET?
Preparing for an exam like CUET requires a strategic approach. Here are a few tips that can help you prepare effectively in these last days of preparation:
- Revise the syllabus: Make sure you have covered all the topics that are part of the syllabus. Go through each topic once again to ensure that you have a good understanding of all the concepts.
- Practice previous years' question papers: Solving previous years' question papers can give you an idea about the type of questions that can be asked in the exam. It can also help you identify your weak areas and work on them.
- Take mock tests: Mock tests can help you simulate the exam environment and give you an idea of your preparation level. You can also use them to practice time management.
- Focus on your weak areas: Identify your weak areas and work on them. Spend more time on topics that you find difficult to understand.
- Stay calm and confident: It's important to stay calm and confident during the exam. Avoid last-minute cramming and trust your preparation.
- Take breaks: Taking regular breaks can help you stay fresh and focused. Take short breaks after every hour or so of study.
- Get enough rest: Make sure you get enough sleep in the last few days before the exam. A good night's sleep can help you stay alert and focused during the exam.
News & Updates
Get prep tips, practice papers, exam details and important updates
CUET Exam
Student Forum
Answered 11 hours ago
The Common University Entrance Test, or CUET, is not necessary to get admitted to Aligarh Muslim University's (AMU) Diploma in Costume Design and Garment Technology program. Admissions are usually made on the basis of merit instead, and candidates are chosen through the departmental admissions proce
K
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 13 hours ago
The CUET UG exam's minimum score for a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science varies from university to university and is determined by several factors, such as the exam's difficulty, the number of seats available, and the candidate's category. However, in order to be eligible for admission, a scor
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 16 hours ago
Hii, Several government colleges in India offer a Master's in Psychology (MA/M.Sc.) through entrance exams, including CUET. Here are some of the prominent ones:
Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), New Delhi
Offers a well-regarded MA in Psychology programme with a fee of around INR 24,000. JMI admits students
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 16 hours ago
Hii, The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) is an entrance exam for admission to a wide range of undergraduate courses across India, offered by various universities. The courses available through CUET include streams such as Science, Commerce, Arts, Engineering, Law, and Vocational courses. So
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered Yesterday
On July 28 2024 the National Testing Agency (NTA) released the CUET UG 2024 results. By entering their application number and birthdate, candidates can see their results on the official CUET portal. The outcome comprises the qualifying status, rank, and scores of the candidates. Several participatin
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered Yesterday
No, you cannot take admission to the Indian School of Business and Finance (ISBF) Delhi BSc without CUET. Students are offered the BSc courses in collaboration with the London School of Business (LSE), and the University of London (UOL). The admission process at ISBF Delhi involves filling out the o
A
Beginner-Level 1
Answered 2 days ago
Yes, IILM University Greater Noida does accept a valid CUET score for admission to some of the UG courses. The university also accepts other national and state-level entrance tests for certain programmes. Some of the courses for which IILM University accepts CUET scores are mentioned below:
- BA LLB (
N
Beginner-Level 3
Answered 2 days ago
According to the latest updates provided by NTA, CUET registrations will start in the last week of February and go on till April 2025. Candidates need to register within this time frame to appear for admissions in 2025.
The exam is slated to take place in May-June 2025, the results will be announced
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 days ago
Yes, you can affix your CUET UG application form and even though your parent's name on your 10th mark sheet is different but slightly different as on other documents. In this regard Universities often know that differences may occur for a number of reasons including- spelling inconsistencies, format
D
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 days ago
The CUET qualifications are still different depending on the course and the universities offering the courses to its students. In general, applicants for their under graduate programs must be pass out in the 10+2 examination from the recognised board. For postgraduate programs, any candidate should
D
Contributor-Level 10
308 Institutes accepting CUET
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- Total Fees: ₹ 35,464
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- 4 years
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- Full Time
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- Total Fees: ₹ 6.60 Lakh
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- 4 years
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- Full Time
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- Total Fees: ₹ 24,000
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- 3 years
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- Full Time
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- Total Fees: ₹ 540
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- 3 years
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- Full Time
Do I need to appear in CUET for admission to Diploma in Costume Design and Garment Technology at AMU?