Proposed Changes to CUET UG Exam Format Starting 2027

Starting in 2027, the CUET UG exam is set to undergo significant changes aimed at simplifying the testing process for students. The National Testing Agency (NTA) is considering a new format that allows students to take all their exams in one day, reducing both the number of questions and the time allocated for each paper. This shift aims to alleviate the logistical challenges faced by students who currently have to visit exam centers multiple times. Additionally, there may be changes in the number of subjects students can choose, as well as implications for postgraduate courses with low application numbers. Stay tuned for official announcements regarding these updates.

By Ambika Singh Oct 4, 2026, 19:02 IST

Overview of CUET UG Exam Changes

Beginning in 2027, significant modifications to the CUET UG examination format are anticipated. Students may have the opportunity to complete exams for all subjects in a single day, along with a reduction in both the number of questions and the duration of each exam.

Simplifying the Exam Process

The upcoming year is poised to be pivotal for those preparing for the CUET UG exam. The National Testing Agency (NTA) is working on revising the existing exam structure to streamline the process, making it less cumbersome and time-intensive. This new approach aims to minimize the need for students to make multiple trips to the examination center.

Single-Day Examination Plan

Currently, students are required to take exams for their selected subjects on different days. Those choosing up to five subjects often find themselves visiting the exam center multiple times, which can lead to increased travel expenses and logistical challenges. The proposed changes would allow students to complete all exams in one day. Although the CUET exam period lasts around 12 to 15 days, each student would be assigned a specific time slot to take their exams on a single day, reducing the inconvenience of multiple visits.

Reduced Exam Duration and Questions

Under the existing CUET UG format, each subject paper is allocated 60 minutes. The new proposal suggests shortening this time to approximately 40 to 45 minutes. Consequently, the number of questions per paper, currently set at 50, may decrease to around 35 to 40. This means that while the exam duration will be shorter, students will need to answer questions more accurately within the limited time.

Potential Change in Subject Selection

At present, students can choose up to five subjects for the CUET UG. However, this is also under review with the new exam format. Reports indicate that the UGC and NTA are contemplating reducing the maximum number of subjects from five to four. If the five-subject option remains, and each paper lasts 40 minutes, the total exam time would be approximately 200 minutes (3 hours and 20 minutes). With four subjects, the exam could be completed in about 160 minutes.

Implications for PG Courses with Low Applications

The proposed changes may extend beyond the CUET UG exam. There are discussions about potentially excluding subjects with low application rates from the CUET PG exam. For courses where applications fall short of available seats, admissions might be based on merit rather than through an entrance examination. Reports suggest that several subjects have seen a decline in applications in recent years.