Key changes in CUET-UG 2025: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced a series of significant changes to the Common University Entrance Test for Undergraduates (CUET-UG) 2025, aimed at improving its efficiency and standardising the admissions process further. Among the key updates are a reduction in the number of subjects candidates can choose, a shift to exclusively computer-based testing (CBT), and a uniform exam duration. These changes were recommended by an expert committee formed by the UGC to review the conduct of the CUET-UG and CUET-PG exams for the upcoming academic session.
The committee evaluated various aspects, including the exam structure, subject offerings, syllabus alignment, and operational logistics, during its meeting on November 13, 2024.
Based on these recommendations, the UGC is set to release a draft proposal outlining the revised guidelines for CUET-UG and CUET-PG 2025, inviting feedback and suggestions from stakeholders such as students, parents, teachers, and institutions. Let’s take a look at the proposed changes.
CUET UG 2025: The shift to CBT-only mode
In an interaction with PTI, UGC Chairman M. Jagadesh Kumar provided insights into the changes, describing them as part of an overhaul of the nationwide single-window entrance exam. He said, “The exam will be conducted only in CBT mode from 2025, unlike the hybrid mode last year. We have also reduced the number of subjects from 63 to 37, and admissions for the dropped subjects will now rely on the scores of the General Aptitude Test (GAT).”
CUET UG 2025: Number of subjects capped at five
In addition to this, candidates will now be allowed to select subjects that they may not have studied in their Class 12 curriculum. This is to ensure flexibility for students. Kumar explained, “This decision aims to dismantle rigid disciplinary boundaries and provide students with the opportunity to explore interdisciplinary options in higher education.”
Additionally, the number of subjects a candidate can choose has been reduced to five from the earlier limit of six. This measure, according to Kumar, will streamline the exam process and reduce the logistical complexities associated with conducting multiple tests across various disciplines.
CUET UG 2025: 60 minutes for all exams
The UGC Chairman further announced that the duration of all CUET-UG exams would be standardised to 60 minutes, eliminating the previous variation that ranged between 45 to 60 minutes depending on the subject. The concept of optional questions has also been removed, making all questions in the exam compulsory.
Key Changes Announced for CUET-UG 2025: Then vs Now
Challenges faced by CUET in recent years
The CUET was first introduced in 2022 as a step towards standardising the admissions process for undergraduate and postgraduate programs across Indian universities. It aims to provide a level playing field for students from diverse educational boards and socio-economic backgrounds. Over the years, CUET has evolved into a transparent, technology-driven system that reduces the reliance on varying cut-offs and ensures equal opportunities for all aspirants. Last year, the exam was adopted by 283 universities, with 13,47,820 candidates registering for it.
However, the early years of CUET were not without challenges. In its inaugural edition, technical glitches plagued the process, and the normalisation of scores became necessary due to exams being held across multiple shifts. The introduction of a hybrid model in 2024 also faced criticism, especially when tests were abruptly cancelled in Delhi just a night before they were scheduled, citing logistical issues. The transition to a fully CBT mode from 2025 seeks to address these operational concerns and make the process more robust.
(With inputs from PTI)