CUET UG 2025 paper pattern change has been officially announced by the National Testing Agency (NTA), bringing significant updates to the structure and marking scheme of India’s largest undergraduate entrance examination. These changes aim to make the test more balanced, comprehensive, and aligned with the evolving educational standards proposed by NEP 2020. With lakhs of students preparing for CUET across the country, understanding the updated pattern is essential for effective exam strategy and success.
The updated structure applies to all candidates appearing for the Common University Entrance Test (UG) 2025 and is now the standard for admissions to central, state, and private universities that accept CUET scores. The new CUET marking scheme includes subject-specific improvements, time allocation changes, and restructured question distribution, which better evaluate students’ conceptual clarity and domain expertise.
New CUET UG Paper Pattern Structure for 2025
Here’s a complete breakdown of the revised CUET UG 2025 paper pattern change:
| Section Name | Subject Type | No. of Questions | To Be Attempted | Time Allotted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section I (Language) | 13 languages (any 1) | 50 | 40 | 45 minutes |
| Section II (Domain) | 27 domain subjects | 45 | 35 | 45 minutes per subject |
| Section III (General) | General Test | 60 | 50 | 60 minutes |
Notable updates include:
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Flexibility to choose up to 6 domain subjects
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Increased emphasis on conceptual questions rather than rote-based queries
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Option to skip questions with internal choices provided
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Uniform distribution of MCQs to ensure fairness across subjects
This format gives students more autonomy in how they approach the exam and what subjects they want to specialize in.
CUET Marking Scheme 2025 – Updated Evaluation Method
The new CUET marking scheme has also been updated to provide more balanced scoring:
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+5 marks for every correct answer
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-1 mark for every incorrect answer
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0 mark for unattempted questions
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Internal choice introduced in certain domain-specific questions
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No sectional cut-off—overall merit is considered for admissions
This ensures that students are evaluated fairly while encouraging accuracy over guesswork.
Key Benefits of the New Pattern
The revised CUET UG 2025 paper pattern change is designed to offer several advantages:
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Reduced exam stress with section-wise timing and internal choices
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Better opportunity for multi-disciplinary combinations of subjects
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Equal importance to language proficiency, domain knowledge, and general aptitude
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Adaptable for students from all education boards—CBSE, ICSE, and state boards
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Supports the NEP 2020 vision of holistic and flexible undergraduate admissions
These updates create a more inclusive and performance-oriented evaluation system.
How Students Should Prepare for the New CUET UG Format
Candidates preparing for the CUET UG 2025 must now adjust their study plans based on the revised structure. Here’s a strategic guide:
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Focus on conceptual understanding rather than memorization
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Practice time management by simulating section-wise timed tests
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Select domain subjects based on both interest and university eligibility criteria
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Solve previous year’s CUET and mock papers with the new pattern in mind
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Improve accuracy to minimize negative marking impact
Coaching centres and online platforms have already started updating their test series and study material to reflect the new pattern.
FAQs
What are the major CUET UG 2025 paper pattern change updates?
Key changes include a reduced number of questions to attempt, increased internal choices, subject flexibility, and new marking rules.
How many subjects can I choose under the new CUET UG format?
You can choose up to 6 domain subjects, 1 language paper, and the general test—depending on the course you’re applying for.
Is there negative marking in CUET UG 2025?
Yes. 1 mark will be deducted for every wrong answer, while unattempted questions will carry no penalty.
Will the exam still be held in multiple shifts?
Yes. CUET UG 2025 will continue to be held in multiple shifts and days, subject-wise, as per the official NTA schedule.
How can I adjust my preparation for the new marking scheme?
Prioritize accuracy, practice with mock tests in the updated format, and focus on conceptual clarity to avoid negative marking.
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