CUET UG 2026 NTA: New Exam Schedule Unveiled

The CUET UG 2026 exam will be conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) from May 11 to May 31, 2026, accommodating millions of candidates across multiple days. This new structure introduces specific shift timings and detailed reporting instructions, marking a significant shift from previous years.
Before this announcement, expectations revolved around a more traditional format, where candidates faced less structured schedules. However, the decisive moment came when the NTA revealed the two primary slots for the examination: Slot 1 from 9:00 AM to 12:15 PM and Slot 2 from 3:00 PM to 6:45 PM.
These changes have direct implications for candidates. They must arrive at their respective exam centers two hours before the start time—doors will close thirty minutes prior to the exam beginning. The introduction of specific reporting times aims to streamline the process and reduce chaos on exam days.
For candidates with disabilities (PwD), there’s an added provision of twenty extra minutes for every hour of the exam. This adjustment reflects a more inclusive approach, ensuring that all candidates can perform to the best of their abilities.
Key requirements for CUET UG 2026:
- Candidates must carry a printed CUET UG 2026 admit card and a valid ID.
- The exam city slip, admit card, and exam schedule will contain the CUET 2026 shift timings.
- Candidates are advised to check their exam center a day before the test.
- Prohibited items include mobile phones, smart watches, and calculators.
The NTA has deployed extensive resources for this examination period, echoing its commitment to managing such a large-scale event effectively. With these updates, candidates are urged to prepare accordingly—familiarity with these new protocols could make all the difference on test day.


