The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially commenced the application process for the Common University Entrance Test for Undergraduate programmes (CUET UG) 2026. Aspiring students across India and overseas can now submit their forms online for admission to central universities and numerous participating institutions.
CUET UG 2026: Key Dates and Application Window
The detailed notification was released by the NTA on January 3, marking the start of the registration period. Candidates have until January 30, 2026, up to 11:50 PM, to complete the online submission of their application forms. However, the deadline for the payment of fees via credit card, debit card, net banking, or UPI is slightly later, extending till January 31, 2026, up to 11:50 PM.
In a significant update, the NTA has also announced the examination schedule. The CUET UG 2026 exam is slated to be conducted from May 11 to May 31. This computer-based test (CBT) is a crucial gateway for undergraduate programmes offered by 47 central universities and over 300 colleges nationwide.
Step-by-Step Guide to the CUET UG 2026 Application Process
Prospective applicants must follow a clear, stepwise procedure to ensure their forms are submitted correctly. The entire process is to be completed on the official portal: cuet.nta.nic.in.
The application steps are as follows:
- Visit the official website: cuet.nta.nic.in.
- Locate and click on the CUET UG 2026 registration link.
- Fill in the online application form with accurate personal details.
- Provide your educational qualification details in the subsequent section.
- Upload scanned images of your photograph and signature in the specified format and size.
- Proceed to pay the application fee using any online payment mode.
- Finally, submit the form and download a copy for your future reference.
The NTA has emphasized the importance of having updated documents. Candidates are urged to ensure their Aadhaar details, UDID cards, and category certificates are current to prevent any discrepancies or potential rejection of their applications at later stages.
Post-Application Schedule and Exam Details
After the application window closes, candidates will be provided an opportunity to correct any errors in their submitted forms. The correction window will be open from February 2 to February 4, up to 11:50 PM.
The agency has also released the CUET UG 2026 exam pattern and syllabus along with the comprehensive information brochure. A notable feature of the exam is its linguistic inclusivity; it will be conducted in 13 languages across India and at select international centres.
Further announcements regarding the allotment of examination cities, the release of admit cards, the display of answer keys, and the final result declaration will be made by the NTA in due course. These updates will be posted on the official website.
Reflecting on previous years, the CUET UG 2025 exam was held over 19 days between May 13 and June 4. The 2024 edition took place from May 15 to 29, while the 2023 exam was conducted in phases from May 21 to June 23.
With the process now initiated, students aiming for undergraduate seats in prestigious central universities should begin their preparations and complete their applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
