The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially commenced the online application process for the Common University Entrance Test for Postgraduate courses, widely known as CUET PG 2024. This crucial gateway for admissions into various postgraduate programs across central, state, private, and deemed universities is now open for aspiring candidates.
Key Dates and Application Window
Prospective students must mark their calendars with the important deadlines. The online application window opened recently, and candidates have until January 14, 2024, to complete and submit their forms. It is highly advisable not to wait until the last moment to avoid any technical glitches or last-minute rush. The correction window for any mistakes in the application form will be active from January 15 to 17, 2024. The CUET PG 2024 examination itself is scheduled to be conducted in March 2024, although the NTA will announce the exact city-wise dates in the future.
Eligibility and Participating Universities
The primary eligibility criterion for appearing in CUET PG 2024 is simple: candidates must hold a bachelor's degree or be appearing for the final semester/year examination of their qualifying degree in 2024. The exam score will be accepted by a vast network of universities for admission into their postgraduate programs.
Over 120 universities, including all central universities, are expected to participate in CUET PG 2024. This includes prestigious institutions like the University of Delhi, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Banaras Hindu University, Aligarh Muslim University, and Jamia Millia Islamia, among others. Many state, private, and deemed universities also use the CUET PG score for their admissions process.
How to Apply and Application Fee
The entire application process is conducted online through the official NTA website for CUET PG. Candidates need to visit the portal, register with basic details, fill in the comprehensive application form, upload required documents (photograph, signature, qualifying degree marksheet/certificate), and pay the application fee.
The application fee varies based on the number of test papers a candidate chooses and their category. For candidates applying for test papers in Centres within India, the fee structure is as follows:
- Up to two test papers: ₹ 800 for General, ₹ 600 for OBC-NCL/EWS, and ₹ 550 for SC/ST/PwBD/Third gender.
- Up to three test papers: ₹ 1,200 for General, ₹ 900 for OBC-NCL/EWS, and ₹ 800 for SC/ST/PwBD/Third gender.
- Up to four test papers: ₹ 1,500 for General, ₹ 1,100 for OBC-NCL/EWS, and ₹ 1,000 for SC/ST/PwBD/Third gender.
For each additional test paper beyond four, an extra fee of ₹ 400 (General), ₹ 300 (OBC-NCL/EWS), and ₹ 250 (SC/ST/PwBD/Third gender) will be applicable. Fees for centres outside India are higher.
Exam Pattern and Preparation
The CUET PG 2024 will be a computer-based test (CBT) conducted in multiple shifts across various examination centres in India and abroad. The question paper will typically consist of 75 to 100 questions to be attempted in 90 to 120 minutes, depending on the specific subject paper. The exam is designed to assess domain-specific knowledge, general awareness, and language skills relevant to the chosen postgraduate field.
With the application deadline of January 14 fast approaching, candidates are urged to begin the process immediately. They should carefully read the information bulletin available on the NTA CUET PG website, ensure they meet the eligibility criteria for their desired university courses, and keep all necessary documents ready for a smooth application experience.
The introduction of CUET PG has streamlined the postgraduate admissions process in India, providing a single-window entrance test for numerous universities. It reduces the burden on students from appearing in multiple university-specific exams and creates a standardized national-level assessment platform.
