CUET Exam After 12th – All You Need to Know
As university admissions in India undergo a major transformation, the CUET exam after 12th has become a central point of discussion among students, parents, and educators alike. CUET stands for Common University Entrance Test, a national-level examination introduced by the National Testing Agency (NTA) to streamline admissions into undergraduate programs across central universities and several other participating institutions.
For students completing their Class 12 board exams, understanding this new system is crucial. If you’re searching for information about CUET exam, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know – from its format and eligibility to its importance and difficulty level.
What Is the CUET Exam?
The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) is a standardized entrance exam introduced in 2022 for admissions into undergraduate courses. Instead of relying solely on board marks, universities now use CUET scores to ensure a fair and uniform selection process. It covers a range of subjects across streams like science, commerce, humanities, law, and management.
Students are tested on their knowledge of specific subjects studied in school, language proficiency, and general aptitude, depending on the course they wish to pursue.
Is CUET Compulsory for Admission?
One of the most frequently asked questions is – is CUET compulsory? The answer depends on the university and course. For admission into central universities such as Delhi University, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), and many others, CUET is mandatory. Some state universities and deemed institutions have also adopted CUET scores for admissions. However, private universities may still conduct their own entrance exams or offer direct admission based on board results.
So, to clarify: is it compulsory to give CUET exam? – Yes, if you’re aiming to get admission into a CUET-participating university, it is mandatory.
CUET Exam After 12th – Who Should Appear?
If you have completed or are appearing for your Class 12 exams and plan to pursue undergraduate studies in top public universities, you should strongly consider taking CUET. The exam opens doors to hundreds of UG programs in disciplines such as:
- BA in Humanities subjects (like History, Political Science, Sociology, Psychology)
- BSc in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, or Mathematics
- BCom or BBA in commerce and business fields
- Integrated Law and Teacher Education programs in select institutions
The CUET is relevant for all streams – whether you studied science, commerce, or arts – and the subjects you choose in the exam depend on the course and university you are applying for.
Is CUET Exam MCQ Based?
Yes, the CUET exam is completely objective. If you’re wondering, is CUET exam MCQ based, the answer is yes. All questions are presented in the form of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), where students must choose the correct option from the given choices. The exam is conducted in computer-based mode, and it follows the NCERT syllabus for subject-based papers. The CUET question paper is divided into three major sections:
- Language Test – Tests comprehension, vocabulary, and reading skills in English or other chosen languages
- Domain-Specific Subjects – Based on the subjects relevant to the undergraduate program (e.g., Biology, History, Accountancy, etc.)
- General Test – Includes logical reasoning, general knowledge, quantitative aptitude, and analytical skills (optional for some courses)
Is CUET Exam Tough? Is CUET Difficult?
A common concern among students is – is CUET exam tough or is CUET difficult? The difficulty level of CUET largely depends on a student’s preparation and familiarity with NCERT Class 12 content. The exam is designed to test what students have already studied in school, so for those with a strong academic base and consistent revision, it is very manageable.
However, competition can be intense, especially for popular programs in top universities like DU or BHU. Time management, regular mock tests, and a clear understanding of the syllabus are key to performing well. CUET may seem challenging at first, but with the right guidance and preparation strategy, it is definitely achievable.
Why Is CUET Important?
The CUET has brought more transparency and equality to the admission process. Earlier, cut-off marks in board exams were the primary admission criteria, which varied widely across education boards. CUET helps level the playing field by evaluating all candidates under the same exam framework. This makes it one of the most significant changes in India’s higher education system.
Conclusion
For students planning their academic journey after Class 12, understanding the role of CUET is essential. Whether you’re pursuing a degree in arts, science, commerce, or professional fields, CUET offers a single, standardized route to top universities. To summarize:
- CUET exam after 12th is a critical step for undergraduate admissions in central and many other universities
- Information about CUET exam is key for making informed course and university choices
- Is CUET compulsory? Yes, for central universities
- Is CUET exam MCQ based? Yes, the entire exam uses multiple-choice format
- Is CUET difficult or tough? Not if you prepare using NCERT material and practice tests
With consistent effort and the right preparation resources, students can excel in CUET and secure admission into prestigious universities. If you’re looking to start your preparation, structured online platforms like TestCoach can help you with expert-curated material, mock tests, and subject-wise support designed specifically for CUET success.
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