NTA CUET (PG) 2026: Exam Dates, Schedule, Pattern Released

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the detailed subject-wise schedule for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET (PG)) 2026 for the Academic Year 2026-27. This public notice, dated 14 February 2026, provides crucial information regarding the examination dates, shifts, mode, and paper medium for over 4 lakh registered candidates. Aspirants are advised to carefully review the complete schedule and prepare accordingly for the Computer Based Test (CBT).

Exam Overview

Exam Schedule

The CUET (PG) 2026 examination will be conducted in 2-3 shifts per day across 44 shifts, each of 90 minutes duration. Below is the detailed subject-wise schedule as per Annexure 1 of the official notification:

Exam Pattern

The CUET (PG) 2026 will be conducted as a Computer Based Test (CBT) with specific guidelines for the question paper medium.

City Intimation Slip & Admit Card

The City Intimation Slip for CUET (PG) 2026 will be made available on the NTA website approximately ten days prior to the examination date. This slip will inform candidates about their allotted exam city, helping them make necessary travel arrangements.

How to Check City Intimation Slip & Download Admit Card

1. Visit the official NTA CUET (PG) website: exams.nta.nic.in/cuet-pg/
2. Look for the link related to ‘CUET (PG) 2026 City Intimation Slip’ or ‘Admit Card Download’.
3. Click on the link and enter your application number, date of birth, and security pin as required.
4. Your City Intimation Slip/Admit Card will be displayed on the screen.
5. Verify all details carefully and download/print a copy for future reference.

Details to Verify on Admit Card

• Candidate’s Name, Roll Number, Application Number
• Photograph and Signature
• Exam Date, Time, and Shift
• Examination Centre Name and Address
• Subject(s) applied for
• Important instructions for the examination

Documents Required on Exam Day

Candidates appearing for the CUET (PG) 2026 examination must carry the following mandatory documents to the test center:

• Printed copy of Admit Card: A clear printout of the CUET (PG) 2026 Admit Card downloaded from the NTA website.
• One Passport Size Photograph: A recent passport size photograph (same as uploaded with the online application form) to be affixed on the attendance sheet.
• Valid Photo ID Proof (Original): Any one of the following original photo identification proofs: PAN Card, Driving License, Voter ID, Passport, Aadhaar Card (with photograph), E-Aadhaar with photograph, Ration Card with photograph, Bank Passbook with photograph.
• PwBD Certificate (if applicable): For PwBD candidates claiming relaxation under the PwBD category.

Note: No candidate will be allowed to appear for the examination without a valid Admit Card and a valid original Photo ID Proof.

Exam Day Instructions

To ensure a smooth examination experience, candidates must adhere to the following instructions:

Do’s:

• Reach the examination center at least 60 minutes before the gate closing time mentioned on the Admit Card.
• Carry only the Admit Card, a valid Photo ID proof, a passport-size photograph, and a transparent ballpoint pen.
• Follow all instructions given by the invigilators strictly.
• Maintain social distancing and wear a mask (if advised by NTA guidelines).
• Locate your seat/system number well in advance.

Don’ts:

• Do not carry any electronic gadgets such as mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, Bluetooth devices, etc.
• Do not carry any textual material, notes, papers, log tables, geometry/pencil box, handbag, purse, etc.
• Do not indulge in any unfair means or malpractices during the examination.
• Do not leave the examination hall before the completion of the exam duration.
• Do not try to tamper with the computer system or any other equipment.

Last-Minute Preparation Tips

As the CUET (PG) 2026 exam dates approach, effective last-minute preparation can significantly boost your confidence and performance:

• Revision: Focus on revising key concepts, formulas, and important topics from your notes. Avoid starting new topics.
• Mock Tests: Attempt at least 2-3 full-length mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern, time management, and identify any remaining weak areas.
• Analyze Previous Papers: Go through previous year’s CUET (PG) papers to understand the question types and difficulty level.
• Time Management: Practice solving questions within the 90-minute time limit for each shift. Develop a strategy for attempting sections.
• Stay Calm: Ensure adequate sleep before the exam. Avoid last-minute cramming, which can lead to stress and anxiety. Trust your preparation.
• Health & Diet: Eat light and healthy food. Stay hydrated.

What to Expect on Exam Day

The CUET (PG) is a Computer Based Test (CBT), and candidates should be prepared for a digital examination environment:

• Computer Interface: Be comfortable with navigating through the computer interface, selecting answers, and marking questions for review. NTA usually provides a mock test link on its website for practice.
• Question Difficulty: The difficulty level of questions may vary across subjects and shifts. Maintain a calm approach and tackle questions strategically.
• Time Pressure: With 90 minutes per shift, time management is crucial. Do not get stuck on a single question for too long.
• Invigilation: Strict invigilation will be in place to ensure fair conduct of the examination.
• Post-Exam: After the exam, refrain from discussing answers immediately. Wait for the official answer key and result announcement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: When will the CUET (PG) 2026 Admit Card be released?

The Admit Card will be released after the City Intimation Slip, approximately 7-10 days before your examination date. Keep checking the official NTA CUET (PG) website for updates.

Q2: What should I do if there is a discrepancy in my Admit Card?

If you find any discrepancy in your Admit Card details (name, photo, date of birth, exam center, etc.), immediately contact the NTA Helpdesk at 011-40759000 or email helpdesk-cuetpg@nta.ac.in for correction.

Q3: Is there negative marking in CUET (PG) 2026?

The official notification does not explicitly mention negative marking. Candidates must refer to the detailed Information Bulletin for CUET (PG) 2026 for the complete marking scheme, which is typically released with the application notification.

Q4: Can I change my exam center after the City Intimation Slip is released?

Generally, once the City Intimation Slip or Admit Card is released, changes to the exam center are not permitted. The correction window for modifications has already closed (28-30 January 2025).

Q5: What is the duration of each shift for the CUET (PG) 2026 exam?

Each shift of the CUET (PG) 2026 examination will be of 90 minutes duration.

Q6: What if I miss my exam shift?

Candidates must appear for the examination on the date and shift allotted to them. No re-examination will be conducted if a candidate misses their scheduled shift for any reason.

Q7: Which documents are mandatory to carry to the exam center?

You must carry a printed copy of your Admit Card, one passport-size photograph, and a valid original photo ID proof (e.g., Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Driving License).

Q8: What are the allowed mediums for the CUET (PG) 2026 question paper?

Most papers will be bilingual (English and Hindi). However, there are specific exceptions for language papers, M. Tech./Higher Sciences, Acharya Papers, and Hindu Studies, as detailed in the Exam Pattern section.