CUET PG 2026 Exam Day Guidelines & NTA Advisory

Overview

Key Highlights of NTA CUET (PG) 2026 Advisory

Exam Window: Conducted between March 6, 2026, and March 27, 2026.
Exam Mode: Strict Computer-Based Test (CBT) across designated Indian and international centers.
Exam Duration: Strictly 90 Minutes (1.5 Hours).
Total Questions: 75 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) to test core domain capabilities.
Marking System: Comprehensive negative marking scheme (+4 for correct answers, -1 for wrong answers).
Mandatory IDs: Physical original copies of government-issued identification cards are mandatory; digital formats are strictly barred.
Official Website: Access admit cards and updates at exams.nta.ac.in/CUET-PG/.

Official NTA CUET (PG) 2026 Candidate Advisory Explained

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued a comprehensive, high-priority public advisory for candidates participating in the Common University Entrance Test (CUET PG) 2026. Designed to streamline administrative workflow and eliminate examination discrepancies, this advisory serves as the master guide for candidates attempting tests between 06 March 2026 and 27 March 2026.

Failing to comply with the guidelines detailed in this document can lead to severe consequences, including instantaneous disqualification, non-evaluation of papers, and long-term exam debarment. Candidates must meticulously verify their examination parameters, including exact shifts, timings, venue coordinates, and physical documentation requirements, to ensure seamless entrance.

Why CUET (PG) 2026 is a Gateway to High-Impact Careers

Securing a stellar score in the CUET (PG) 2026 is a significant milestone for students targeting prestigious Post Graduate qualifications in India. This centralized exam is the exclusive gateway to premier Central, State, Private, and Deemed Universities—including highly sought-after institutions like JNU, Delhi University (DU), and BHU.

Career Impact and Future Prospects

Academic Specialization: Unlocks access to cutting-edge laboratory infrastructure, state-of-the-art research centers, and globally acclaimed faculty members.
Corporate Placements: Premier universities participating in CUET PG boast stellar industry-institution linkages, ensuring high-paying campus placements right after graduation.
Research & PhD Foundations: Provides an intense training ground that prepares you for major national fellowships like UGC-NET, CSIR-NET, and international doctoral applications.

Important Dates

Event	Date
Official Advisory Release Date	05 Mar, 2026
CUET (PG) 2026 Examination Start Date	06 Mar, 2026
CUET (PG) 2026 Examination End Date	27 Mar, 2026

Syllabus Highlights

75 Total Questions: The exam structure is tightly consolidated to assess specialized post-graduate domain expertise within 75 targeted questions.
Total Duration - 90 Minutes: The clock starts running as a digital countdown on the top-right corner of your monitor. Once it hits zero, your window closes and inputs are automatically submitted.
Bilingual Question Delivery: Except for specific domains, all question sets are displayed in English and Hindi simultaneously.
M.Tech & Higher Sciences Limitation: All M.Tech and Advanced Science papers are displayed strictly in English only.
Acharya Papers Medium: Sanskrit serves as the primary medium for Acharya papers, with specific exceptions (like Baudha Darshan & Indian Knowledge Systems) remaining trilingual.
Language Papers (LAQP01 to LAQP41): These are delivered exclusively in their native languages.
Marking Scheme Highlights: Each correct answer adds +4 marks, each incorrect attempt deducts -1 mark, and unanswered questions earn a neutral 0.
Translation Discrepancy Policy: In any case of structural or contextual translation conflict, the English text version will be treated as the ultimate, legally binding reference for evaluation.

Important Steps

STEP 1: Download & Print the Official Admit Card

Visit exams.nta.ac.in/CUET-PG/ to download your admit card.
Print a clear, sharp copy of the document on a standard white A4 sheet. We highly recommend a colour printout to ensure your uploaded photograph and signature are clearly visible.

STEP 2: Collect the Required Identification Documents

Keep at least two identical passport-size photos ready (the same photos you uploaded during the application process). These will be pasted onto the official physical attendance sheet.
Secure an original, valid, government-approved photo ID. Acceptable IDs include: Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driver's License, PAN Card, or Ration Card.

STEP 3: Complete Pre-Exam Checkpoints

Arrive at the test center before the designated reporting time. Gate closing times are strictly enforced, and latecomers will not be allowed inside under any circumstances.
PwD/PwBD candidates must carry their official certificates issued by competent medical authorities to claim the 20-minute-per-hour compensatory time extension.

STEP 4: Navigate the Computer-Based Test (CBT) System

Use the colour-coded question palette on your monitor to track your progress: Gray means unvisited, Red is unanswered, Green is answered, Purple is marked for review, and Purple with a green tick is answered and marked for review (which will be evaluated).
Use the Save & Next button after selecting an answer to ensure your choice is saved on the server.

STEP 5: Post-Examination Requirements

Write your name and Roll Number clearly at the top of each provided A4-size rough sheet.
Crucial Step: Drop all used rough sheets into the designated box before leaving the room.

Pro-Tip & Common Mistakes to Avoid

⚠️ Avoid the "Rough Sheet Drop" Penalty: Failing to drop your signed rough sheets into the designated drop box before leaving can lead to immediate disqualification or non-evaluation of your exam paper. Do not leave the exam hall with any rough paper in your pockets. Additionally, remember that taking a restroom break requires you to undergo the full biometric scanning and frisking process again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a negative marking policy in CUET PG 2026?

Yes, there is negative marking. For every correct answer, you will earn +4 marks, while an incorrect response will lead to a deduction of 1 mark (-1). Unattempted questions do not carry any penalties.

Can I present a digital or photocopy of my ID proof at the test center?

No. Candidates must carry a physical, original, and valid government-issued Photo ID card. Scanned copies on mobile phones, photocopies, or expired documents are strictly invalid and will result in denied entry.

Are diabetic students allowed to bring food items into the exam hall?

Yes, diabetic candidates are permitted to bring basic eatables like sugar tablets, fresh fruits (such as bananas, apples, or oranges), and a transparent water bottle. However, packaged food items like chocolates, candies, or sandwiches are strictly prohibited.

What is the procedure if my Aadhaar biometric verification fails or is locked?

You must ensure your biometrics are unlocked via the UIDAI portal before arriving at the center. If you registered without an Aadhaar card, you must report to the exam venue at least 1 hour prior to gate closing for manual verification.

What happens if there is a discrepancy in the translation of a question?

According to official NTA guidelines, the English version of the question paper will be treated as final and correct for evaluation purposes in case of any translation ambiguity, except for language-specific exams.

Official Notification

Always verify all details on the official government website before submitting your application.

Visit Official Website

More Updates

Newer Update

NTA CUET PG Admit Card 2026 Released for March 11, 12, and 13 Exams: Direct Link & Official Guidelines

07 Mar, 2026

CUET PG 2026 Candidate Advisory & Exam Day Instructions: NTA Guidelines, Paper Pattern & Crucial Do's and Don'ts