CUET Eligibility Criteria 2026: Who Can Apply & Key Requirements

Introduction

Are you interested in taking the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) in 2026? To be successful in your application, you must understand what is required. By determining if you qualify earlier as opposed to later, you can save both time and effort in preparing for this exam.

This article will provide you with the information needed regarding both CUET eligibility and the steps required for you to complete before you can register for this examination.

What is CUET And Why is It Important For You to Know if You are Eligible?

CUET, the Common University Entrance Test, is an Entrance Examination that is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) at a national level for students of all over India to determine their eligibility for undergraduate, postgraduate and integrated programs at various Central Universities, State Universities and Deemed Universities throughout the country.

Understanding the CUET Eligibility criteria for the year 2026 is important because applying without meeting the eligibility requirements can result in your application being rejected, wasting your application fee and missing out on an important opportunity. We will provide you with the information you require in order to be able to apply for this examination, as well as break down who qualifies for CUET and what you must do to meet the qualifications.

Basic CUET Eligibility Criteria 2026

Depending on whether you’re applying to undergraduate (UG), postgraduate (PG), or Research programs, the cuet eligibility varies slightly. Here are the primary eligibility requirements:

For CUET UG (Undergraduate) Programmes

If planning on applying to a bachelor’s degree programme through CUET, the following are the basic eligibility requirements:

Educational Qualification

Candidates must have completed or are currently completing a Class 12 examination from an acceptable board or its equivalent to be eligible. Meaning:

• Anyone who has written their 12th grade exam can apply
• Anyone in Class 12 can wait for the result and apply
• Open schooling systems like NIOS provide a pathway for students who have a similar educational outcome

Age Limit

There is no upper-age limit for CUET undergraduate applicants, meaning you could be 17 or 45 years of age (or older) and still be eligible to sit for this exam based on meeting the educational qualifications. Universities may have their specific restrictions when it comes to admission based on age when qualifying, so check the specific requirements for the universities prior to applying.

Minimum Marks Requirement

The cuet minimum marks requirement will depend on the student’s category and university of interest. Students in the general category usually need 50% aggregate in Class 12 and SC/ST/OBC candidates usually need 45% aggregate. Additionally, a small number of universities have additional minimum requirements outside of what we have mentioned.

Number of Attempts

There are no limitations on any number of times you want to take CUET. If you don’t get it right the first time; don’t worry, you can always take it again in later years.

For CUET PG (Post-Graduate Courses)

If you are planning on getting a master’s degree; here’s how the criteria look for CUET 2026 for post-graduate courses:

Educational Qualifications

• To be eligible you must have completed or be in the final year of a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
• You must have completed your degree in a related field as defined by the university and program that you are applying for.
• If you are in your final year you may apply provisionally; if you are accepted you will need to provide proof of your degree at the time of enrollment.

Minimum Marks

• General category: 50%-55% for a bachelor’s degree.
• Reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/PwD): 45%-50% for a bachelor’s degree.
• Some programs will have higher cut-offs.

Age Limit

As with UG, there is ordinarily no upper age limit for CUET PG but certain professional courses will have age restrictions.

Subject-Specific Eligibility Requirements for the CUET

In addition to the general eligibility requirements for the CUET, you will also need to meet the eligibility requirements for the specific subject area/course you wish to study.

Science Program-Specific Requirements

If you are pursuing a Science program (B.Sc, B.Tech, or any Science course):

• You must have completed Classes 11 and 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology.
• Some Science programs have specific combinations of subjects required.
• You will need to have a minimum percentage in Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics/Biology.

Arts and Humanities Program-Specific Requirements

B.A. and Humanities programs:

Generally, any student from any stream (Science, Commerce, or Arts) may apply for a B.A. and other Humanities courses.

• Some specialized B.A. programs may require specific Arts or Humanities subjects.
• Language aptitude will be required for specific courses.

Commerce Program-Specific Requirements

B.Com and B.B.A. programs:

• Commerce stream students will have an advantage but students from other streams may also apply.
• Some specializations will require a background in Mathematics.
• Business Studies or Accounting are helpful for some specializations in B.Com/B.B.A. programs.

Professional Program-Specific Requirements:

Law, Journalism, Design and Education degrees:

• May have specific subject requirements.
• You may be asked to submit a portfolio or work samples.
• You may also be required to complete entrance exams in addition to the CUET.

Documents Needed to Apply for the CUET

Meeting the eligibility requirements for the CUET is only the first step of the application process; you will also need the following documents:

Documents Needed for CUET Applications

Just because you qualify to take CUET is not enough. You must have these documents with you when submitting your application.

Required Documents

• Class 10 Certificate – proof of date of birth.
• Class 12 Mark Sheet (if the candidate has passed) or an Admit Card (if the candidate is appearing).
• Category Certificate – certificate from the competent authority that indicates the SC/ST or OBC/EWS for that student.
• PwD Certificate – if you are applying under the Person with Disability quota.
• Photograph – a recent passport size photograph (in accordance with the required specifications).
• Signature – a scanned copy of your signature.
• ID Proof – a printed copy of your Aadhaar Card, your PAN Card, or your Passport.
• Email ID and Mobile Number – Must be active and should be reachable.

For PG Students

• Bachelor Degree Certificate (you may be able to obtain a Provisional Certificate if you are in your final year).
• Consolidated Mark Sheets of all semesters/years.
• Migration Certificate (if applicable).

CUET 2026 Special Categories and Reservations

The requirements for taking the CUET exam include provisions for admission under different reserved categories.

Reservation Policies

• SC/ST – 15% & 7.5% respectively
• OBC-NCL – 27%
• EWS – 10%
• PwD – 5% horizontal reservation across the board.

Relaxation

Reserved category candidates receive the following:

• Reduced minimum percentage needed to qualify,
• Fee concessions or exemptions,
• More than one attempt for some categories,
• Grace marks as determined by Government norms.

Making a Claim for Reservation Benefits

To make a claim for reservation benefits, you should:

• Get the appropriate category certificate from the relevant authorized officer
• Upload the category certificate during the application process
• Ensure the category certificate is within the validity period
• Follow Government guidelines on the format and issuing authorities of the category certificate

Requirements for State Domicile

While eligibility for CUET is determined at the national level, some universities have state domicile policies that apply to specific seats.

• State domicile quota: Usually includes a certain percentage of seats that have been set aside for state residents.
• All India quota: This quota is available to applicants from any state.
• Domicile certificate: Universities may require you to present your domicile certificate at the time of counseling; it is important to check whether your preferred university has provisions for a State quota, as well as to ensure you obtain your domicile certificate.

Common Mistakes with CUET Eligibility

Students frequently make the following mistakes when verifying their eligibility for CUET:

Mistake 1: Not checking University-specific eligibility requirements.

The NTA establishes the minimum eligibility requirements for CUET 2026, and it is important to check the individual university’s website to know if they have more specific eligibility requirements.

Mistake 2: Not taking into account subject combinations when checking for eligibility.

In addition to the minimum percentage, you must also complete a secondary school certificate (or similar) that shows that you studied those subjects listed as required for the degree program you are applying for.

Mistake 3: Using an incorrect or outdated Category Certificate.

Submitting an incorrect or expired category certificate will result in your application being denied. To be sure your document is valid, check the publication date on the document and use the correct Government formats; also use the Government-issued category certificate.

Mistake 4: Incomplete Application.

In order for your eligibility to CUET to be eligible, all of your documentation should be complete and the information contained in the application should contain no discrepancies. Make sure to thoroughly review your application before submitting it.

Mistake 5: Not Following Directions

The information bulletin contains important information. Not reviewing this document carefully creates unnecessary mistakes.

How CUET Plus Helps You Navigate Your Eligibility

Deciphering all the requirements for the cuet exam can be difficult. Luckily, CUET Plus has you covered.

CUET Plus Offers:

• Eligibility Evaluation: Are you unsure if you qualify? Our team of experts will evaluate your transcripts and identify exactly which programs are available to you.
• Document Review: We will assist you through the document submission process to be sure all of your supporting evidence is in the proper format.
• University-Specific Insights: CUET Scores are accepted by hundreds of colleges; CUET Plus will match you with colleges that suit your interests and qualifications.
• Application Guidance: From completing the application form to submitting documentation, CUET Plus will help you to submit an error-free application.
• Comprehensive Exam Preparation: Once your eligibility is confirmed, CUET Plus will provide organized courses, practice exams, and study materials to give you the best chance at performing well on the exam.

Verification of CUET Eligibility: The Steps to Take

1. Determine The Level Of The Program

2. Confirm The Educational Qualifications

3. Determine The Percentages

4. Confirm The Subject Requirements

5. Prepare The Necessary Documents

6. Review The University Requirements

7. Confirm Your Category

What If I’m Not Eligible?

Don’t worry if you have not met some of the eligibility requirements. Here are some options for you:

Age Limitations

Because there are generally no age limits, this doesn’t usually affect applicants’ abilities to apply. If a particular university does impose age limits, look for other universities that are accepting CUET candidates.

Percentage Shortfall

• Check if you belong to a reserved category where the cutoff is lower.
• Look for universities that have lower percentage cutoffs.
• Some universities accept admissions purely on the basis of CUET score and not on 12th-grade marks.

Subject Combinations

• Research programs that will accept your subject combination.
• Investigate bridge programs that allow you to change fields.
• Search for interdisciplinary programs that have flexible subject combination requirements.

Documentation Issues

• Immediately contact the issuing authority to correct any mistakes.
• If you cannot find your original documents, request a duplicate.
• Make sure all documents are attested and translated into English, if necessary.

Key Dates CUET 2026

While the dates for the official announcement of CUET 2026 have not yet been released, we expect that this will be in February or March of 2026 at the earliest. Below are the anticipated dates for each of these events:

• Filing of Applications – February or March of 2026
• Application Deadline – March or April of 2026
• Admit Card Release Date – April or May of 2026
• Examination Dates – May or June of 2026
• Result Release Date – June or July of 2026

Please make sure to check with NTA for updates regarding the dates listed above.

Final Checklist: Are You Eligible for CUET 2026?

Before you start your application, use this quick checklist:

• [ ] Have you passed or are you appearing in the qualifying examination?
• [ ] Do you meet the minimum percentage requirement?
• [ ] Have you studied the required subjects?
• [ ] Are all your documents ready and valid?
• [ ] If claiming reservation, is your category certificate current?
• [ ] Have you checked university-specific requirements?
• [ ] Do you have a valid email ID and phone number?
• [ ] Are you aware of the application fee?

If you’ve checked all these boxes, congratulations! You’re eligible to apply for CUET 2026.

Conclusion: Your Path Forward with CUET

Understanding CUET eligibility criteria is the foundation of your higher education journey. The cuet 2026 criteria are designed to be inclusive, allowing students from diverse backgrounds to pursue quality education at prestigious universities across India.

Remember, meeting the basic eligibility is just the beginning. Success in CUET requires strategic preparation, understanding of exam patterns, and consistent practice. That’s where CUET Plus comes in—we’re committed to supporting you at every stage of your CUET journey.

Whether you’re confirming your eligibility, preparing for the exam, or seeking guidance on university selection, our team of experts is here to help. Don’t leave your future to chance—start with clarity on eligibility and move forward with confidence.

Ready to begin your CUET journey? At CUET Plus, we offer personalized counseling sessions to assess your eligibility, recommend suitable programs, and create a customized preparation strategy just for you. Because when it comes to your education, every detail matters.

Visit CUET Plus today and take the first step toward your dream university with complete confidence in your eligibility and preparation!

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Disclaimer: This blog provides general information about CUET eligibility criteria based on previous patterns. For the most accurate and updated information, always refer to the official NTA CUET website and individual university guidelines.

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Frequently Asked Questions About CUET Eligibility