CUET UG 2026: The National Testing Agency (NTA) will hold the Common University Entrance Test (Undergraduate) — CUET (UG) 2026 tomorrow, May 11, 2026, in Computer-Based Test (CBT) format.
The examination will be conducted from 11 May to 31 May 2026 across India and at 14 international cities across 13 countries — ranking among the largest computer-based examinations conducted globally.
On the first day of CUET UG 2026, May 11, a total of 1,24,020 candidates will appear for the examination in two shifts. Shift I will be conducted at 314 centres for 63,247 candidates, while Shift II will take place at 281 centres for 60,773 candidates. Eight subjects will be held in each shift. Subjects scheduled for Day 1 include English, Accountancy/Book Keeping, Business Studies, Economics/Business Economics, History, Political Science, Chemistry, Geography/Geology, Computer Science/Informatics Practices, and Sociology.
The Agency has released important exam day guidelines for candidates appearing in the Common University Entrance Test (Undergraduate) 2026. The instructions were shared through NTA’s official social media handles to help students avoid last-minute confusion and ensure a smooth examination experience.
Before heading to the examination centre, candidates are advised to keep all required documents and permitted items ready. Following the official guidelines will help make the exam experience hassle-free.
CUET UG 2026: Important Instructions For Candidates
According to NTA, candidates whose live photograph uploaded during registration does not match their Aadhaar or other registered photo ID must carry the required original certificate, duly attested by the competent authority, for verification at the examination centre.
Candidates wearing religious or customary attire are advised to report early to the exam centre, as they will undergo mandatory frisking and security checks.
CUET UG 2026: Items Allowed Inside The Exam Centre
Candidates are permitted to carry only the following items and docuements inside the examination hall:
Transparent water bottle
Transparent ballpoint pen
Admit card with self-declaration
Two passport-size photographs
Original valid photo ID proof
Diabetic-related eatables (sugar tablets / banana / apple / orange), if required
PwD/PwBD certificate (if applicable)
CUET UG 2026: Carry The Same Photo ID Used During Registration
NTA has specifically instructed candidates to carry the same original photo ID proof that was uploaded during the online application process. Failure to produce the matching ID may lead to verification issues at the examination centre.
CUET UG 2026: What Did Earlier Advisory Say?
Earlier on May 7, National Testing Agency has issued an advisory for candidates appearing in Common University Entrance Test (CUET-UG) 2026, clarifying the dress code and items that will be allowed inside examination centres.
Religious articles and kalava permitted
Candidates may wear articles or objects of faith, including religious threads such as kalava. However, those wearing such items should report to the examination centre well in advance to allow sufficient time for frisking and security checks.
Dress code for candidates
The NTA has advised candidates to wear light-coloured and comfortable clothing. Students may also wear woollens if required. Candidates wearing additional layers should arrive early to avoid delays during security checks.
Footwear guidelines
Candidates should opt for simple footwear such as:
Normal shoes
Slippers
Low-heeled footwear
Simple footwear will help speed up the entry process at examination centres.
Reporting and security instructions
Candidates are advised to:
Reach the examination centre well before the reporting time
Cooperate with security and frisking procedures
Follow instructions issued by invigilators and centre staff
Avoid carrying prohibited items
The NTA has emphasised that early reporting is especially important for candidates wearing religious articles or additional clothing.
CUET UG 2026: Data
A total of 15,68,866 candidates have registered for CUET UG 2026. The examination will account for 67,56,321 test sittings across 12,906 unique subject combinations selected by candidates. The test will be conducted over 35 shifts during a 21-day examination period. Around 96.6 per cent of candidates have been allotted one of their preferred exam cities, while 79 per cent received their first-choice city. Nearly 43 per cent of all registrations have come from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Delhi.
CUET UG 2026: Official Helpdesk Details
Candidates facing any issues may contact NTA through the following channels:
Email: cuet-ug@nta.ac.in
Helpline Number: 011-40759000
Official Website: nta.ac.in
Candidates are advised to reach the examination centre well before the reporting time and strictly follow all instructions issued by NTA to avoid any inconvenience on the day of the examination.
