CUET-UG 2026 Exam: Key Details and Registration Insights

Overview of CUET-UG 2026 Examination

The CUET-UG 2026 examination is set to take place in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format from May 11 to May 31, 2026. This exam will be conducted nationwide and in 15 international cities. The National Testing Agency (NTA), responsible for the exam, has stated that candidates can wear items reflecting their religious beliefs when arriving at the examination center. However, it is essential for them to arrive early for necessary security checks and frisking.

Guidelines for Candidates

The NTA has confirmed that candidates are allowed to wear religious threads, such as the *Kalava*. It is recommended that candidates opt for light-colored attire, preferably in white or pastel shades. Given the weather conditions, wearing woolen clothing is also permissible, but arriving ahead of the scheduled time is crucial.

Registration Statistics

**1.5 Million Candidates Registered**

Recent data from the NTA indicates that around 1.569 million candidates have registered for the upcoming examination. This marks a notable increase from previous years, with 1.355 million candidates registered in 2025 and 1.348 million in 2024. Last year, 79% of registered candidates participated in the computer-based examination.

**Higher Registrations than JEE**

The CUET-UG examination has surpassed the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main in terms of registered candidates. The January session of JEE (Main) had 1.355 million registrations, while the April session recorded 1.111 million.

Despite an increase of about 210,000 candidates compared to last year, the testing infrastructure has not expanded proportionately. The current CBT infrastructure can accommodate approximately 150,000 candidates per shift.

Exam Center Allocation

**Reason for Different City Allocations**

The gap between the number of registrations and the capacity per shift has led to some candidates being assigned exam centers in cities that are not their preferred choices. To address this, the NTA has provided a facility for candidates to formally request a change in their designated exam state or city.

The growing popularity of this examination is reflected in the increasing number of participating institutions. From 90 universities in its first year in 2022, the number rose to 239 in 2025, and it is expected to reach 243 this year, including central, state, and private universities.