The CUET 2025 exam changes are now officially in place, bringing major updates for undergraduate aspirants across India. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) is the single-window exam for UG admissions in central universities and other participating institutes.
In 2025, the exam pattern, eligibility norms, and subject combinations have been revamped to simplify the admission process and ensure better alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP). These CUET 2025 exam changes are already applicable to students appearing in the current academic year.
Students, parents, and schools are advised to stay updated with these critical revisions, as the CUET 2025 exam changes impact application strategy and subject preparation.
What’s New in CUET 2025 Exam Pattern?
The revised pattern under CUET 2025 exam changes has introduced structural modifications in question distribution, number of sections, and time duration. Here are the key updates:
| Component | CUET 2024 | CUET 2025 (Updated) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Sections | 4 | 3 |
| Section 1 | Language | Language (Same) |
| Section 2 | Domain-Specific Subjects | Domain Subjects (Max 5) |
| Section 3 | General Test | General Aptitude (Optional) |
| Question Type | MCQs (CBT Mode) | MCQs (CBT Mode) |
| Marking Scheme | +5 for correct, -1 for wrong | Same |
| Total Marks | 800 | 600 |
Under the CUET 2025 exam changes, the number of domain subjects a student can opt for has been reduced to a maximum of 5 to reduce pressure and duplication of syllabus.
Eligibility Criteria Updates in CUET 2025
As part of the CUET 2025 exam changes, the eligibility criteria have also been restructured to create uniformity across institutions:
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Students must have passed Class 12 or equivalent from a recognized board in India
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Minimum qualifying marks: 50% for General category, 45% for SC/ST/OBC/PWD
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Age Limit: No upper age limit; anyone fulfilling academic requirements can apply
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Some universities may still have additional eligibility like minimum subject scores
The CUET 2025 exam changes ensure that students from state boards and CBSE/ICSE are evaluated on equal grounds.
Key Benefits of the CUET 2025 Reforms
The latest CUET 2025 exam changes are not just structural but also student-centric. The updates make the admission process more focused and less stressful:
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Fewer subjects to prepare = less burden
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Standardized evaluation across central universities
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Better question-paper alignment with NCERT syllabus
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Easier to apply and prepare with revised mock test formats
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Eliminates duplication with board exam syllabus
Universities like DU, JNU, BHU, and Allahabad University are now fully following these CUET 2025 exam changes for UG intake.
CUET 2025 Timeline and Application Window
As of now, the key dates for the CUET 2025 cycle have been finalized:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | February 10, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | March 20, 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | April 25, 2025 |
| Exam Dates | May 15 to May 30, 2025 |
| Result Declaration | June 20, 2025 |
The CUET 2025 exam changes have also ensured smoother exam logistics with multiple test centers and language options.
FAQs
What are the major CUET 2025 exam changes?
The CUET 2025 exam changes include fewer subject options (max 5), 3-section exam pattern, and simplified eligibility to make UG admissions smoother.
Has the negative marking system changed in CUET 2025?
No. The CUET 2025 exam changes retain the marking scheme of +5 for correct answers and -1 for incorrect answers.
Can a student from a state board apply?
Yes. All students who have passed Class 12 from a recognized board are eligible under the CUET 2025 exam changes.
Is the General Test compulsory in CUET 2025?
No. The General Aptitude section is now optional under the CUET 2025 exam changes, depending on the course and university requirements.
How many subjects can I select in CUET 2025?
A student can now select a maximum of 5 domain subjects in the application form, as per the CUET 2025 exam changes.