The CUET PG 2026 exam is being conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) from 6 March 2026 to 27 March 2026 in computer-based mode across several exam centres in India. The entrance test is held for admission to postgraduate programmes offered by central and participating universities. According to early student feedback and expert analysis, the question papers across various subjects have been moderate in difficulty, with a mix of conceptual and application-based questions.
CUET PG 2026 Exam Shift Timings and Schedule
The exam is conducted in three shifts each day to accommodate candidates appearing for different postgraduate subjects. Each session has a duration of 90 minutes. The shift timings are as follows:
- Shift 1: 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM
- Shift 2: 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM
- Shift 3: 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Candidates are advised to check their admit cards carefully to confirm the exact shift and reporting time for their examination.
CUET PG 2026 Question Paper Pattern and Marking Scheme
The CUET PG exam pattern follows a standard structure designed to evaluate subject knowledge and analytical ability. Key highlights of the exam pattern include:
- The question paper consists of 75 multiple-choice questions (MCQs)
- The total marks are 300
- Each correct answer carries 4 marks
- 1 mark is deducted for every incorrect response
- The exam duration for each shift is 90 minutes
The questions are mainly based on the domain-specific subject chosen by the candidate, and the test evaluates conceptual understanding as well as application of knowledge.
CUET PG 2026 Difficulty Level and Students' Reaction
Initial reactions from candidates indicate that most papers have been balanced with a mix of factual, conceptual and analytical questions. Students who appeared for the exam reported that:
- Questions were mostly based on the prescribed syllabus
- Some analytical questions required a deeper understanding
- Time management was important for completing the paper within the given duration
- Candidates who practised previous year papers found the exam manageable
Overall, the difficulty level has generally been rated moderate, although it may vary slightly depending on the subject and shift.
CUET PG 2026 Dress Code and Exam Day Guidelines
Candidates appearing for the exam must follow the guidelines issued by the NTA to ensure smooth conduct of the examination. Important exam-day instructions include:
- Carry the CUET PG admit card and a valid photo ID proof
- Wear simple clothing without heavy accessories
- Avoid carrying electronic devices such as mobile phones, calculators or smartwatches
- Reach the exam centre before the reporting time mentioned on the admit card
Failure to follow these guidelines may lead to disqualification from the examination. The CUET PG exam is conducted for 157 postgraduate subjects, and the scores will be used for admission to more than 90 universities, including several central universities in India. Candidates are now awaiting the CUET PG 2026 provisional answer key, which is expected to be released after the completion of all exam shifts.