CUET Exam Guide

CUET 2023: Exam Dates, Application Form, Eligibility, Pattern, and More

What is CUET Exam?

The National Testing Agency (NTA) administers the Common University Entrance Test (CUET). It is an exam attempted by students applying to Central Universities participating in NTA. 

CUET gives students a single-window opportunity to enroll in these partnering universities across the nation and various streams. The regulated admission process makes it easier and more user-friendly for students.

What is CUET Exam Pattern 2023?

Candidates must check the following points regarding CUET 2023 exam pattern for UG & PG courses:

CUET UG Exam Pattern

  • Exam mode: The examination will be held online in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode.
  • Questions Type: The question paper will consist of multiple-choice questions (MCQ).
  • Language: There will be 13 languages for the UG-level course.
  • Time Duration: For Slot I, candidates will be given 3 hours and 15 minutes. For Slot II, there will be 3 hours and 45 minutes.
  • No. Of Sections: CUET UG will include 4 sections: Section IA, Section IB, Section II, and Section III.
  • Marking Scheme: 5 marks for each correct answer.
  • Negative marking: 1 mark will be deducted for each incorrect answer.
Sections Subject/Language Total Questions Minimum Questions to Attempt Duration
IA 13 languages 50 40 in each language 45 minutes per language
IB 19 languages
II 27 subjects related to domain 50 40 45 minutes per subject
III General Test 75 60 60 minutes

CUET PG Exam Pattern

  • Exam Mode: The exam is conducted online (computer-based) mode.
  • Time Duration: Candidates must solve the paper within 2 hours.
  • No. Of Questions: Each question paper will consist of 100 questions.
  • Marking Scheme: 4 marks for each correct answer.
  • Negative marking: For each incorrect answer, 1 mark will be deducted

CUET Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must check the following eligibility criteria for CUET 2023 exam before applying:

  • Nationality: Indian National citizen will be eligible to apply.
  • Qualification: For UG, candidates must have passed the 12th level exam, whereas, for PG, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree from any recognized board or university.
  • Age Limit: There will be no age limit to apply for CUET 2023 examination.
  • Minimum qualifying marks: Vary according to participating university.

Latest CUET Syllabus 2023 (Subject-Wise for UG)

The CUET syllabus 2023 for UG is based on the Boards/School Curriculum taught in Classes XI and XII. 

The subjects covered are Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Logical Reasoning for Paper 1 (UI-QP-01: For Science UG Courses), as well as General Knowledge, English, and Logical Reasoning for Paper 2. (UI-QP-02: For Non-Science UG Courses).

Part A

  • English
  • Numerical Aptitude/ Data Interpretation
  • Analytical Skills
  • Reasoning
  • General Aptitude
  • General Knowledge

Part B – Section I (Physics)

  • Measurement
  • Motion in one dimension Laws of Motion
  • Motion in two dimensions,
  • Work, Power and Energy
  • Linear momentum & collisions
  • Rotation of a rigid body about a fixed axis
  • Gravitation
  • Oscillatory motion
  • Mechanics of solids and fluids
  • Heat and thermodynamics wave
  • Electrostatics
  • Current electricity
  • Magnetic effect of current
  • Electromagnetic induction ray optics and optical instruments
  • Wave optics
  • Modern physics

Section II (Chemistry)

  • Atomic Structure
  • Chemical Bonding
  • Redox Reaction
  • Equilibrium and Kinetics
  • Acid-Base Concepts Catalysis
  • Electrochemistry
  • Colloids
  • Colligative Properties of Solution
  • Periodic Table Thermochemistry
  • General Organic Chemistry
  • Reaction intermediates
  • Isomerism
  • Polymers
  • Carbohydrates
  • Solid State
  • Petroleum

Section III (Mathematics)

  • Algebra
  • Probability
  • Trigonometry
  • Coordinate Geometry
  • Calculus
  • Vectors
  • Dynamics
  • Statics

Section IV (Biology)

Zoology:

  • Origin of Life
  • Organic Evolution
  • Mechanism of Organic Evolution
  • Human Genetics and Eugenics
  • Applied Biology
  • Mammalian Anatomy
  • Animal Physiology

Botany:

  • Plant Cell
  • Protoplasm
  • Ecology
  • Ecosystem
  • Genetics
  • Seeds in angiosperm plants
  • Fruits
  • Cell differentiation Plant Tissue
  • Anatomy of Root
  • stem and leaf
  • Important phyla
  • Soil
  • Photosynthesis

CUET 2024 Important Dates

  • Application Date – April 2023
  • Admit Card Date – September 8
  • Exam Date – September 12
  • The last date to fill out the application form – May 2023
  • Website – www.cuet.nta.nic.in

CUET Application Fees

CUET 2024 application fees are as follows:

Application Fee:

  • Candidates will be able to submit the application fee via online mode.
  • The mode of payment includes credit card, debit card or net banking, or UPI payment mode.
  • In any case, the application fee will be non-refundable.
  • Candidates must check the following table for the application fees for UG & PG courses:

For UG courses:

Category Centres in India (Each Slot) Centres outside India (Each Slot)
General/ UN-Reserved Rs. 650/- Rs. 3000/-
General-EWS/ OBC-NCL Rs. 600/-
SC/ ST/ PwBD/ 3rd Gender Rs. 550/- Rs. 3000/-

Test Pattern:

Section Subjects Questions to be attempted Total Number of  Questions Questions Type Duration
Section IA 13 different languages (can choose any one) 40 50 Reading comprehension (based on different languages – Factual literary & Narrative, Literary Aptitude & Vocabulary) 45 minutes for each language
Section IB 20 different languages (can choose any language apart from Section IA)
Section II- Domain 27 Domains specific subjects (must choose 6 domains as desired by applicable university/ IES) 40 50 Input Text for MCQ based questions (it will be on the bases of 12th NCERT syllabus) 45 minutes for each domain specific subjects
Section III- General Tests For any such UG program/programs being offered by universities 60 75 Input text can be used for MCQ Based Questions

General Knowledge, Current Affairs, General Mental Ability, Numerical Ability, Quantitative Reasoning (Simple application of basic mathematical concepts arithmetic/algebra geometry/mensuration/s tat taught till Grade 8), Logical and Analytical Reasoning

60 minutes
Total 180 questions 225 questions 195 minute

For PG courses:

Category Centres in India (For upto 3 test papers) Centres in India (Per paper) Centres outside India 
General/ UN-Reserved Rs. 800/- Rs.200/- Rs. 4000/- (For upto 3 papers)

Rs. 1000/- (For upto 1 paper)

General-EWS/ OBC-NCL Rs. 600/- Rs.150/-
SC/ ST/ 3rd Gender Rs. 550/- Rs.150/-
PwBD Rs.500/- Rs.150/-

Questions Structure:

Pattern Question Paper Paper Code
1 There will be 100 questions divided into two parts

Part A: 25 Questions consisting of Language Comprehension/ Verbal Ability

Part B: 75 Domain Knowledge Questions Comprising of Teaching Aptitude, Mathematics, Social Science & Science

PGQP01
The no. of Questions will be 100 & divided into two parts

Part A: 25 MCQ’s consisting of Language Comprehension, Verbal Ability, General Awareness, Mathematical/ Quantitative Ability & Analytical Skills

PGQP02 to PGQP07 PGQP09 to PGQP37 PGQP39

PGQP41 to PGQP59 PGQP61 to PGQ73 PGQP75 to PGQ77

2 The no. of questions will be 100 and divided into two parts

Part A : 25 Questions (Language Comprehension/Verbal Ability, General Knowledge, and Mathematical/Quantitative ability )

Part B: 75 Questions Domain knowledge e.g. Civil Engineering or Mechanical Engineering etc.

PGQP08 PGQP74 PGQP78
The no. of questions will be 100 and divided into two parts

Part A: 25 Questions (General Knowledge/Awareness, Mathematical

Ability and Logical Reasoning) Part B: 75 Questions of specific language.

PGQP60
3 100 Questions (Language Comprehension/ Verbal Ability, Mathematical/ Quantitative ability, Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning) PGQP38
100 Questions (Language Comprehension/ Verbal Ability, General Knowledge/ Awareness, Computer Basics and Logical Reasoning) PGQP40

How to Apply for CUET 2023?

Step-1: Visit the official website of CUET 2023.

Step-2: For fresh registration, click on the “Registration” option.

Step-3: Go through the complete instructions & procedure for online submission of the form.

Step-4: Fill in personal information & other asked details.

Step-5: Choose the password & fill in the security pin and submit other required details.

Step-6: Preview your details & enter OTP details.

Step-7: Now log in using application no. & password.

Step-8: Fill in your “University name & program”.

Step-9: Select the test paper & subject for the first/ second slot of the examination.

Step-10: Select four exam centers as per your preference.

Step-11: Upload a passport-size photograph & signature in the prescribed format.

Step-12: Re-check the details & then submit the fee as per no. of course.

Step-13: Now click on the “Submit” option.

Step-14: A confirmation page will appear on your screen. Take its printout for future use.

Best CUET Books for Better Preparation (Subject-Wise)

The CUET 2023 UG courses exam pattern includes three sections- Languages, Domain-specific and General Test. If a candidate wants expert preparation, then the following preparation books are recommended:

  • Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examination by RS Agarwal
  • General Knowledge by Arihant
  • English Grammar in Use by Raymond Murphy
  • Complete Mathematics by Lucent’s Publication
  • High School English Grammar and Composition by Wren and martin
  • Shortcuts in Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams by Disha Experts
  • Test of Arithmetic by Arihant Publication
  • Analytical Reasoning and Logical Reasoning by Arihant Publication
  • Disha’s Rapid General Knowledge by Disha Experts
  • Competitive English Grammar & Composition by Arihant

CUET Syllabus 2023 (Subject-Wise)

Candidates can check below the complete subject-wise CUET syllabus for UG courses. A candidate can choose six test domains while applying for the CUET 2023 entrance test.

CUET Exam Syllabus for General Test

General Knowledge, Current Affairs, General Mental Ability, Numerical Ability, Quantitative

Reasoning (Simple application of basic mathematical concepts arithmetic/algebra

geometry/mensuration/statistics taught till Grade 8), Logical and Analytical Reasoning

CUET UG Syllabus for Chemistry

The CUET Chemistry syllabus includes topics such as – Polymers, Solid State, Solutions, Chemical Kinetics, Surface Chemistry, Coordination Compounds, Haloalkanes and Haloarenes, General Principles and Processes of Isolation of Elements, p-block elements, Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers, d and f block elements, Aldehydes, Ketones and Carboxylic Acids, Organic Compounds Containing Nitrogen, Biomolecules, Chemistry in Everyday Life, Electrochemistry.

CUET UG Syllabus for Physics

The CUET Physics syllabus includes topics such as – Electrostatics, Current Electricity, Magnetic Effect of Current and Magnetism, Electromagnetic Induction and Alternating Current, Optics, Electromagnetic Waves, Atoms and Nuclei, Electronic Devices, Dual Nature of Matter and Radiation, Communication Systems.

CUET UG Syllabus for Mathematics

The CUET Maths syllabus includes topics such as – Relation and Functions, Algebra, Calculus, Vectors, three-dimensional geometry, Probability, Linear Programming, Numbers, Quantification and Numerical Applications, Index Numbers and Time-Based Data, Linear Programming, and Financial Mathematics.

CUET UG Syllabus for Biology

The CUET Biology syllabus includes topics such as – Physical Anthropology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Material Culture, Economics, Anthropology, Social Anthropology and Ethnography, and Ecology. 

CUET UG Exam Syllabus for Languages (IA & IB)

In this section, there will be one Question Paper with 50 questions, out of which 40 must be attempted. Questions from the Language Section will be from reading comprehension (Factual, Literary, and Narrative), Verbal Ability, Rearranging the parts, Choosing the correct word, Synonyms, and Antonyms, and Vocabulary.

CUET Syllabus for Home Science

Human Development: Life Span Approach, Nutrition for Self, Family and Community, Money, Management and Consumer Education, Apparel: Designing, Selection, and Care, Community, Development and Extension, Career Options After Home Science Education.

CUET Syllabus for Engineering Graphics

Isometric Projection of Solids, Machine Drawing, FreeHand Sketches, Bearings, Rod Joint, Tie-Rod, and Pipe Joint.

CUET Exam Syllabus for Legal Studies

Judiciary, Topics of Law, Arbitration, Tribunal Adjunction, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Human Rights in India, Legal Services, Legal Profession India, Legal Maxims, International Context.

CUET Syllabus for Knowledge Traditions – Practices in India

Agriculture: A Survey, Architecture: A Survey, Dance: A Survey, Education Systems, and Practices: A Survey, Ethics: Individual and Social, Martial Arts Traditions: A Survey, Language and Grammar, Other Technologies: A Survey.

CUET Syllabus for Mass Media/Mass Communication

Cinema, Journalism, Communication, TV, Radio, Social Media, and New Media.

CUET Syllabus for Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurial Opportunity, Entrepreneurial Planning, Entrepreneurial Marketing, Enterprise, Growth and Strategies, Resource Mobilization, Business Arithmetic.

CUET Syllabus for Computer Science

SQL, Database Concepts, Exception and File Handling in Python, Computer Networks, Stack, Searching, Queue, Sorting, Understanding Data, Database Query using SQL, Data Handling using Pandas – I, Data Handling using Pandas – II, Plotting Data using Matplotlib, Societal Impacts, Data Communication, Security Aspects.

CUET Syllabus for Physical Education/NCC/Yoga

Sociological Aspects of Physical Education, Training Methods, Career Aspects in Physical Education, Career Aspects in Physical Education, Health Education & Health Problems, Sports Injuries and First Aid, Test & Measurement in Sports, Biomechanics & Sports, Psychology & Sports.

CUET Syllabus for Art, Education, and Sphere

Painting, Sculpture, Graphics, Commercial Arts.

CUET Syllabus for History

The Story of the First Cities Harappan Archaeology, Political and Economic History: How Inscriptions tell a story, Social Histories using the Mahabharata, A History of Buddhism: Sanchi Stupa, Agrarian Relations The Ain-i- Akbari, The Mughal Court: Reconstructing Histories through Chronicles, Religious Histories: The Bhakti-Sufi Tradition, New Architecture: Hampi, Religious Histories: The Bhakti-Sufi Tradition, Medieval Society through Travellers’ Accounts, Colonialism and Rural Society: Evidence from Official Reports, Representations of 1857, Partition through Oral Sources, Mahatma Gandhi through Contemporary Eyes, Colonialism and Indian Towns: Town Plans and Municipal Reports, The Making of the Constitution.

CUET Syllabus for Agriculture

Agrometeorology, Genetics, Plant Breeding, Biochemistry and Microbiology, Livestock Production, Crop Production, Horticulture.

CUET Exam Syllabus for Psychology

Variations in Psychological Attributes, Self and Personality, Meeting Life Challenges, Psychological Disorders, Therapeutic Approaches, Attitude and Social Cognition, Social Influence and Group Processes, Psychology and Life, Developing Psychological Skills.

CUET Syllabus for Teaching Aptitude

Teaching of Languages, Teaching of Social Sciences Section, Teaching of Sciences, Teaching of Mathematics, Teaching of Fine Arts, Teaching of Performing Arts, Teaching of Physical Education & Yoga.

CUET Syllabus for Accountancy

Accounting Not-for-Profit Organisation, Accounting for Partnership, Reconstitution of Partnership, Dissolution of Partnership Firm, Accounting for Share and Debenture Capital, Analysis of Financial Statements, Statement of Changes in Financial Position, Overview of Computerised Accounting System, Using Computerised Accounting System, Accounting Using Database Management System (DBMS), Accounting Applications of Electronic Spreadsheet.

CUET Exam Syllabus for Business Studies

Nature and Significance of Management, Principles of Management, Business Environment, Organising, Planning, Staffing, Directing, Controlling, Business Finance, Financial Markets, Marketing, Consumer Protection, Entrepreneurship Development.

CUET Syllabus for Economics/Business Economics

Consumer Behaviour and Demand, Introduction, Producer Behaviour and Supply, Forms of Market and Price Determination, Simple Applications of Tools of Demand and Supply Curves, Introductory Macroeconomics, Determination of Income and Employment, Money and Banking, Government Budget and the Economy, Balance of Payments.

CUET Syllabus for Sociology

Balance of Payments, Social Institutions: Continuity and Change, Social Inequality and Exclusion, The Challenges of Unity in Diversity, Process of Social Change in India, Social Change and the Polity, Social Change and the Economy, Arenas of Social Change, New Arenas of Social Change, Social Movements.

CUET Syllabus for Geography/Geology

Human Geography: Nature and Scope, People, Human Activities, Transport, Communication and Trade, Human Settlements, India: People and Economy.

CUET Syllabus for Political Science

Politics in India Since Independence, Contemporary World Politics.

CUET Syllabus for Environmental Studies

Human Beings and Nature, Population and Conservation Ecology, Monitoring Pollution, Third World Development, Sustainable Agriculture, Environmental and Natural Resource Economics, International Relations and the Environment.

CUET Syllabus for Anthropology

Physical Anthropology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Material culture and economic Anthropology, Social Anthropology and Ethnography, and Ecology.

CUET Exam FAQs 

1. What is the last date to apply for CUET 2023 exam?

The last date to apply for CUET 2023 exam is 24 June 2023.

2. What is the CUET exam date in 2023?

The CUET exam will be held in July 2023.

3. What is the CUET 2023 application form date?

The Application Form date is April 2023.

4. When will the CUET admit cards be available for download?

The CUET admit cards are available for download from September 8.

5. What is the CUET application fee?

The application fee for CUET General and OBC categories is Rs. 800. Similarly, reserved category students must pay Rs. 350.