Jiya Tyagi
Content Creator
CUET 2026 is the main entrance exam for students looking aadmission into India’s best colleges like Delhi University, BHU, JNU, Jamia Milia Islamia, and more than 250 participating institutions. The exam has replaced the old board percentage-based admission system, creating a fair and standardised process for students from CBSE, ICSE, State Boards, and NIOS. Here, we provide information on top colleges that accept CUET 2026, eligibility criteria, expected cut-off marks, admission process, subject choice, scholarships, how to prepare, and some common questions asked by Class 12 students.
CUET UG 2026 is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission into undergraduate courses in affiliated universities in India. The exam will be held in the Computer Based Test (CBT) format and comprises of:
Candidates can opt for subjects depending on the eligibility criteria of the university and course. CUET has become the single largest undergraduate admission platform in India because students can now apply to hundreds of universities using one scorecard.
CUET UG 2026 exam provides students with a single-window approach to get admission to top universities in India. This exam is conducted by NTA and is recognised by more than 250 universities like DU, BHU, JNU, and JMI. Through CUET, there will be equal opportunities for all students during admission procedures in undergraduate programs. Check below the table for CUET 2026 highlights:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Common University Entrance Test (CUET UG) |
| Conducting Authority | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test |
| Participating Universities | 250+ |
| Exam Medium | 13 Languages |
| Official Website | cuet.nta.nic.in |
| Courses Offered | Undergraduate Programmes |
| Admission Basis | CUET Score + Eligibility |
CUET 2026 is divided into three sections i.e., Language Test, Domain Subjects, and General Test. Students must choose subjects based on the course and university they want to apply for. Understanding the exam structure helps students prepare better and select the right subject combination for admission.
| Section | What It Tests | Subjects Included | Who Should Attempt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section I – Language Test | Reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar | English, Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, Marathi, Telugu, etc. | Required for most undergraduate programmes |
| Section II – Domain Subjects | Class 12 subject knowledge | Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Biology, Economics, History, Accountancy, etc. | Based on chosen course and university requirements |
| Section III – General Test | Quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, GK, current affairs | General Test Paper | Required for multidisciplinary and professional programmes |
Students planning to appear for CUET 2026 must meet the basic eligibility requirements set by NTA and participating universities. The eligibility criteria are simple and allow students from different boards and streams to apply for undergraduate admissions through CUET scores. Check the below table for CUET 2026 eligibility criteria:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Qualification | Passed or appearing in Class 12 |
| Accepted Boards | CBSE, ICSE, State Boards, NIOS |
| Age Limit | No upper age limit for most courses |
| Attempts Allowed | Unlimited |
| Nationality | Indian and eligible foreign students |
| Minimum Marks | Depends on university requirements |
Subject selection is one of the most important aspects of CUET registration. Students must carefully choose subjects based on university requirements. Check the table for CUET 2026 subject selection strategy:
| Stream | Recommended CUET Subjects | Popular Courses |
|---|---|---|
| Science | English, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics/Biology, General Test | BSc, Biotechnology, Computer Science, Engineering |
| Commerce | English, Accountancy, Business Studies, Economics, General Test | B.Com, BBA, Economics, Management |
| Arts/Humanities | English, History/Political Science/Psychology, General Test | BA, Journalism, Social Sciences, Languages |
UET 2026 scores are accepted by all the 45 Central Universities in India for admissions in undergraduate courses. The courses offered include Science, Commerce, Arts, Engineering, Languages, Law, Agriculture, and Social Sciences. Applicants can use the same score to gain admission into one or more of the best universities in India. Check the below table for all 45 Central universities accepting CUET 2026 scores:
| University | Location | Notable UG Programmes | Approx. Cutoff Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Delhi (DU) | New Delhi | B.A., B.Sc., B.Com (Hons.), LLB | 85–99% |
| Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) | New Delhi | B.A. Foreign Languages, B.Sc. Life Sciences | 88–96% |
| Banaras Hindu University (BHU) | Varanasi, UP | B.A., B.Sc., B.Com, B.Ed | 78–95% |
| Hyderabad Central University (HCU) | Hyderabad, Telangana | B.Sc., B.A. Social Sciences | 78–92% |
| Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) | New Delhi | B.Tech, B.A., B.Ed, Journalism | 75–90% |
| Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) | Aligarh, UP | B.A., B.Com, Law, Engineering | 75–90% |
| Pondicherry University | Puducherry | B.Sc., B.Com, B.A., BCA | 70–88% |
| Assam University | Silchar, Assam | B.A., B.Sc., B.Com | 65–82% |
| Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University | Lucknow, UP | B.Sc., B.A., B.Com | 65–82% |
| Central University of Gujarat | Gandhinagar, GJ | B.A., B.Sc., Integrated MA | 65–82% |
| Central University of Haryana | Mahendergarh, HR | B.A., B.Sc. | 62–80% |
| Central University of Himachal Pradesh | Dharamshala, HP | B.A., B.Sc., Environmental Studies | 60–78% |
| Central University of Jharkhand | Ranchi, JH | B.Tech, B.Sc., B.A. | 60–78% |
| Central University of Karnataka | Kalaburagi, KA | B.A., B.Sc., B.Com | 60–78% |
| Central University of Kashmir | Srinagar, J&K | B.A., B.Sc., B.Tech | 58–76% |
| Central University of Kerala | Kasaragod, KL | B.A. Languages, B.Sc. | 60–78% |
| Central University of Orissa | Koraput, OD | B.A., B.Sc. | 55–72% |
| Central University of Punjab | Bathinda, PB | B.Sc., B.A., B.Com | 62–80% |
| Central University of Rajasthan | Ajmer, RJ | B.Sc., B.A., B.Com | 62–80% |
| Central University of South Bihar | Gaya, BR | B.A., B.Sc. | 58–75% |
| Central University of Tamil Nadu | Thiruvarur, TN | B.A., B.Sc. | 60–78% |
| Visva-Bharati University | Shantiniketan, WB | B.A., B.Sc., Fine Arts, Music | 68–85% |
| Manipur University | Imphal, MN | B.A., B.Sc., B.Com | 55–72% |
| Mizoram University | Aizawl, MZ | B.A., B.Sc., B.Com | 52–68% |
| Nagaland University | Lumami, NL | B.A., B.Sc. | 50–68% |
| North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) | Shillong, ML | B.A., B.Sc., B.Ed | 58–76% |
| Sikkim University | Gangtok, SK | B.Sc. Life Sciences, B.A. | 58–75% |
| Tripura University | Agartala, TR | B.A., B.Sc., B.Com | 55–72% |
| Tezpur University | Tezpur, AS | B.Tech, B.Sc., B.A. | 65–82% |
| Rajiv Gandhi University | Itanagar, AR | B.A., B.Sc. | 50–66% |
| HNB Garhwal University | Srinagar, UK | B.Sc., B.A., B.Ed | 60–78% |
| Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya | Bilaspur, CG | B.A., B.Sc., B.Com, LLB | 60–78% |
| Dr. Harisingh Gour University | Sagar, MP | B.Sc., B.A., LLB, B.Ed | 62–80% |
| Indira Gandhi National Tribal University | Amarkantak, MP | B.A., B.Sc., B.Com | 52–68% |
| Mahatma Gandhi Central University | Motihari, BR | B.A., B.Sc. | 52–68% |
| National Sanskrit University | Tirupati, AP | Sanskrit, Vedic Studies | 50–65% |
| SLB National Sanskrit University | New Delhi | Sanskrit, Jyotisha, Vedanta | 50–65% |
| Maulana Azad National Urdu University | Hyderabad, TG | B.A. Urdu, B.Ed, Mass Communication | 55–72% |
| Mahatma Gandhi Hindi Vishwavidyalaya | Wardha, MH | B.A. Hindi Language & Literature | 55–72% |
| English & Foreign Languages University | Hyderabad, TG | B.A. English, Foreign Languages | 70–86% |
| Nalanda University | Rajgir, BR | B.A. Historical Studies | 60–78% |
| Central University of Andhra Pradesh | Anantapur, AP | B.Sc., B.A., B.Com | 58–76% |
| Central University of Telangana | Sangareddy, TG | B.A., B.Sc., B.Com | 58–76% |
| Central University of Jammu | Jammu, J&K | B.A., B.Sc., B.Com | 58–76% |
| Central Agricultural University | Imphal, MN | B.Sc. Agriculture, B.Tech | 65–82% |
Delhi University is one of the best options for students who are appearing for CUET 2026 exam, as it is known for its reputed colleges, low fees, good placements, and various number of courses. Admission to all UG programmes is conducted through CUET scores and the DU CSAS counselling process. With 67 colleges and thousands of seats across Commerce, Science, and Arts streams, DU remains one of the most competitive university systems in India.
Delhi University offers some of the most competitive undergraduate programmes through CUET 2026. From Commerce and Science to Arts & Humanities, top DU colleges require high CUET scores and subject combinations based on the chosen course.
Top DU Colleges Commerce Stream
| DU College | Programme | Expected Cut-Off |
|---|---|---|
| SRCC | B.Com (Hons.) | 97–99% |
| LSR | B.Com (Hons.) | 96–98% |
| Hindu College | B.Com (Hons.) | 95–97% |
| Hansraj College | B.Com (Hons.) | 93–96% |
| Ramjas College | B.Com (Hons.) | 90–94% |
Top DU Colleges Science Stream
| DU College | Programme | Expected Cut-Off |
|---|---|---|
| Miranda House | B.Sc. (Hons.) Physics/Chemistry | 93–97% |
| Hansraj College | B.Sc. (Hons.) PCM | 92–96% |
| Hindu College | B.Sc. (Hons.) Zoology/Botany | 90–95% |
| Ramjas College | B.Sc. (Hons.) Mathematics | 88–94% |
| Kirori Mal College | B.Sc. Electronics | 85–92% |
Top DU Colleges Arts & Humanities Stream
| DU College | Programme | Expected Cut-Off |
|---|---|---|
| Miranda House | B.A. (Hons.) English | 96–99% |
| LSR | B.A. (Hons.) Psychology | 95–98% |
| Hindu College | B.A. (Hons.) History | 90–95% |
| Ramjas College | B.A. (Hons.) Political Science | 88–94% |
| Daulat Ram College | B.A. (Hons.) Hindi | 78–88% |
Apart from Delhi University, various top universities across India accept CUET 2026 scores for undergraduate admissions. These institutions offer excellent academics, affordable fees, strong placements, and diverse programme options for Science, Commerce, and Arts students.
BHU is one of India’s largest and most prestigious central universities offering programmes in Science, Commerce, Arts, Agriculture, and Performing Arts through CUET 2026.
| Programme | Expected Cut-Off |
|---|---|
| B.Sc. (Hons.) Physics | 88–95% |
| B.Sc. (Hons.) Chemistry | 85–92% |
| B.Com (Hons.) | 85–92% |
| B.A. (Hons.) English | 82–90% |
| B.Sc. Agriculture | 78–88% |
JNU is famous for Languages, International Studies, Social Sciences, and Life Sciences. It is also known for highly affordable education and strong academic exposure.
| Programme | Expected Cut-Off |
|---|---|
| B.A. Foreign Languages | 88–95% |
| B.Sc. Life Sciences | 88–94% |
| B.A. International Studies | 85–93% |
HCU is among the top universities in South India for Sciences, Economics, Sociology, and Biotechnology programmes.
| Programme | Expected Cut-Off |
|---|---|
| B.Sc. Physics/Chemistry/Maths | 82–90% |
| B.A. Sociology/Political Science | 78–88% |
| B.A. Economics | 80–90% |
| B.Sc. Life Sciences/Biotechnology | 80–88% |
Jamia Millia Islamia is one of India’s leading central universities known for its strong programmes in Engineering, Journalism, Architecture, Law, and Humanities. Admission to most undergraduate courses is now conducted through CUET 2026 scores.
| Programme | Expected Cut-Off |
|---|---|
| B.Tech | 85–92% |
| Mass Communication & Journalism | 80–90% |
| Social Work | 75–85% |
| Architecture | 80–88% |
| LLB | 78–88% |
Aligarh Muslim University is a prestigious university offering quality education in Commerce, Science, Law, Languages, and Humanities. AMU attracts students from across the country due to its academic excellence and affordable fee structure.
| Programme | Expected Cut-Off |
|---|---|
| B.Com (Hons.) | 82–90% |
| B.A. English | 80–88% |
| BA LLB | 78–88% |
| B.Sc. Physics/Chemistry | 80–90% |
| Arabic/Persian Studies | 65–78% |
There are many state universities in India which accept CUET 2026 marks for admission to their undergraduate courses. State universities offer cheap education, quality teaching and a variety of programs in Arts, Sciences, Commerce and Law. As compared to good central universities, state universities maintain lower cut-offs, thus making them suitable for students of Class 12. Check the belw table for some state universites through CUET 2026:
| University | State | Popular Programmes | Expected Cut-Off |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Allahabad | Uttar Pradesh | B.A., B.Sc., B.Com, LLB | 75–90% |
| Lucknow University | Uttar Pradesh | B.A., Law, B.Com, B.Sc. | 70–85% |
| Maharaja Sayajirao University | Gujarat | Fine Arts, B.Sc., B.Com | 72–88% |
| University of Mumbai | Maharashtra | B.Com, B.Sc., B.A. | 75–92% |
| Osmania University | Telangana | B.A., B.Sc., B.Com | 65–82% |
| Bangalore University | Karnataka | Arts, Commerce, Science | 65–84% |
| Madras University | Tamil Nadu | B.A., B.Sc., B.Com | 68–85% |
| Calcutta University | West Bengal | Arts, Science, Commerce | 70–88% |
A number of private and deemed universities take CUET 2026 scores for admission to undergraduate programs. These universities have modern campuses, industry-related courses, placement options, and scholarships that depend on CUET score, thus serving as an excellent alternative to central and state universities. Check the below table for best private universities through CUET 2026:
| University | Location | Popular Programmes | Annual Fee | Scholarship |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Symbiosis International University | Pune | BBA, B.Com, B.Sc., BA | ₹1.5L – ₹3.5L | Up to 50% |
| Amity University | Noida |
B.Tech, BA LLB, BBA, MBA Integrated, BA, B.Com
| ₹1.8L – ₹4L | Up to 40% |
| LPU | Punjab | BTech, BBA, B.Sc., BA | ₹1.4L – ₹3L | Merit-Based |
| Chandigarh University | Punjab |
B.Tech, B.Com, BA, BBA, LLB
| ₹1.5L – ₹3.5L | Up to 50% |
| Sharda University | Greater Noida | B.Tech, BBA, B.Pharma, BA | ₹1.5L – ₹3.5L | Yes |
| Bennett University | Greater Noida |
BJMC, BA LLB, B.Tech, BBA
| ₹2L – ₹4.5L | Up to 100% |
| GD Goenka University | Gurugram | BBA, B.Design, B.Com, BA | ₹1.5L – ₹3L | Yes |
| Manipal University | Karnataka | B.Tech, BBA, B.Pharma | ₹2L – ₹5L | Merit-Based |
| Graphic Era University | Dehradun | B.Tech, B.Com, BBA | ₹1.2L – ₹2.5L | Yes |
| SRM University | Chennai | B.Tech, BBA, B.Sc. | ₹2L – ₹5L | Merit-Based |
CUET 2026 provides great chances for students in all streams, Science, Commerce, and Arts. Students have options for programmes according to their choices, CUET subjects and target scores from the best DU colleges and central or state universities.
| College / University | Best Science Programmes | Expected Cut-Off |
|---|---|---|
| Miranda House, DU | Physics, Chemistry, Life Science | 92–97% |
| Hansraj College, DU | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics | 90–96% |
| Hindu College, DU | Zoology, Botany, Chemistry | 88–95% |
| JNU, New Delhi | Life Sciences, Biotechnology | 88–94% |
| BHU, Varanasi | Physics, Chemistry, Maths | 82–92% |
| HCU, Hyderabad | Physics, Maths, Chemistry | 78–90% |
| College / University | Best Commerce Programmes | Expected Cut-Off |
|---|---|---|
| SRCC, DU | B.Com (Hons.), Economics | 97–99% |
| LSR, DU | B.Com (Hons.), Economics | 96–98% |
| Hindu College, DU | B.Com (Hons.) | 95–97% |
| Hansraj College, DU | B.Com (Hons.) | 92–96% |
| BHU, Varanasi | B.Com (Hons.) | 82–92% |
| HCU, Hyderabad | B.A. Economics | 80–90% |
| College / University | Best Arts Programmes | Expected Cut-Off |
|---|---|---|
| Miranda House, DU | English, Hindi, History | 93–99% |
| LSR, DU | Psychology, Economics, Sociology | 92–98% |
| Hindu College, DU | History, Political Science | 88–95% |
| JNU, New Delhi | Foreign Languages | 85–95% |
| EFL University, Hyderabad | English Literature | 75–88% |
| Jamia Millia Islamia | Journalism, Social Work | 75–88% |
CUET 2026 admission process is divided into two major phases i.e., the exam process and the university admission process. Students must complete both stages carefully to secure admission into their preferred college and course.
Step 1: Register on the CUET Portal
Visit the official CUET website and complete the registration process using your personal and academic details.
Step 2: Choose Your Subjects
Select subjects based on the course and university requirements. Most students choose English, domain subjects, and the General Test.
Step 3: Upload Documents & Pay Fees
Upload passport-size photographs, signatures, and required documents, then pay the application fee online.
Step 4: Download Admit Card
Once released, download the CUET admit card and check exam city, date, and subject details carefully.
Step 5: Appear for CUET 2026
Attend the exam at the allotted centre and follow all exam-day guidelines.
Step 6: Download CUET Scorecard
After results are announced, download and save multiple copies of your scorecard for counselling and admissions
Step 7: Register on University Portals
Apply separately on university admission portals such as DU CSAS, BHU, JNU, Jamia, and others.
Step 8: Fill College & Course Preferences
Choose your preferred colleges and programmes carefully during counselling registration.
Step 9: Check Merit Lists & Seat Allocation
Universities release multiple admission rounds based on CUET scores and seat availability.
Step 10: Accept Seat & Pay Admission Fee
If allotted a seat, confirm admission by paying the required fee before the deadline.
Step 11: Complete Document Verification
Visit the allotted college or upload documents online for verification.
Step 12: Confirm Final Admission
After verification and fee payment, your admission is confirmed and classes begin.
Students should keep all important documents ready before the counselling and admission process begins. Missing or incorrect documents can delay admission, seat confirmation, or verification. It is advisable to keep both original and photocopy sets prepared in advance. Check below the important documents required for CUET 2026 admission:
CUET 2026 cutoffs would depend on the university, course, and level of competition. From the previous year’s trend, it is clear that candidates who intend to join some of the best DU colleges must score very high marks whereas other state and private universities would have lower cut-off marks. Check the below table for expected CUET 2026 score range by university tier:
| University Tier | Examples | Expected Score (Out of 800) | Percentile Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 1-A - Elite DU Colleges | SRCC, LSR, Miranda House | 740–800 | 98–100th |
| Tier 1-B - Top DU Colleges | Hansraj, Ramjas, Kirori Mal | 680–740 | 94–98th |
| Tier 2-A - Premier Central Universities | JNU, BHU, HCU | 620–700 | 88–95th |
| Tier 2-B - Other Top Universities | JMI, AMU, Pondicherry | 560–650 | 80–90th |
| Tier 3 - State Universities | Mumbai, Calcutta, Osmania | 480–580 | 70–82nd |
| Tier 4 - Private Universities | LPU, Amity, Chandigarh | 380–500 | 55–72nd |
© 2026 Nuvora Education Private Limited. All rights reserved.
