The Common University Entrance Test for Postgraduate programmes (CUET PG) 2026 is currently being conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) across examination centres in India. The entrance examination started on 06 March 2026 and will continue until 27 March 2026 for multiple postgraduate subjects. The exam is organised in computer-based test (CBT) mode and covers 157 subjects, allowing candidates to seek admission to postgraduate programmes offered by participating universities.
CUET PG 2026 Shift Timings and Exam Duration
The NTA conducts the examination in three separate shifts each day to accommodate candidates appearing for different subjects. Each shift lasts 90 minutes, during which candidates attempt subject-specific questions. The shift-wise exam schedule is as follows:
- Shift 1: 09:00 AM – 10:30 AM
- Shift 2: 12:30 PM – 02:00 PM
- Shift 3: 04:00 PM – 05:30 PM
Candidates must check the exact reporting time and shift details on their admit cards to ensure timely entry into the examination centre.
CUET PG 2026 Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme
The CUET PG examination follows a standard pattern designed to evaluate subject knowledge for postgraduate admission. Key features of the exam pattern include:
- Total questions: 75
- Exam duration: 90 minutes
- Mode: Computer-based test
- Negative marking: 1 mark deducted for incorrect answers
Candidates are required to attempt questions related to their selected postgraduate discipline during the examination session.
CUET PG 2026 Question Paper Analysis
Initial feedback from students and subject experts suggests that the overall difficulty level of several CUET PG papers has ranged from easy to moderate, depending on the subject. Memory-based questions and expert analysis are usually shared after each shift concludes. Experts note that the exam mainly tests conceptual understanding, subject knowledge and analytical ability through objective-type questions. The detailed exam analysis generally includes:
- Overall difficulty level of the paper
- Important topics asked in the exam
- Expected good attempts by candidates
- Section-wise question distribution
Such analyses help candidates estimate their performance before the official results are released.
CUET PG 2026 Admit Card and Exam Guidelines
Candidates appearing for the exam must carry a printed admit card along with a valid photo identity proof to the examination centre. Electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartwatches and calculators are not permitted inside the exam hall. Authorities have also implemented strict verification procedures and CCTV monitoring at exam centres to ensure smooth conduct of the examination.