CUET-UG 2025 In Online Mode, Fewer Subject Choices To Allow Students More Focus, Flexibility: UGC Chief | Interview
The first two editions – 2022 and 2023 – were held in the CBT mode only. The debut edition was marred by both technical and administrative glitches. The second edition was better, but technical issues were still reported from various locations.
2024 was the first time that the test was held in a hybrid mode (both online and pen and paper mode) to complete the exam within a short schedule and do away with multiple shifts. This too had students raising issues with OMR sheets and answer keys.
News18 spoke to University Grants Commission (UGC) chairperson M Jagadesh Kumar to gain insights into and elaborate on the major overhaul.
Q: What are the key changes made in the structure and format of CUET-UG?
A: The exam will be completely computer-based, eliminating the OMR (Optical Mark Recognition) sheet or pen and paper format. This makes the process more efficient and standardised. The number of subjects in which a student can take the exam has been reduced to five from six, previously. Besides, the total number of subject choices available overall have been reduced to 37 now from 67, including a decrease in domain subjects from 29 to 23.
This allows students to focus their preparation and reduces exam-related stress. Students have more freedom to choose subjects aligned with their interests and aspirations. This will increase flexibility and provide more choices.
Secondly, all exam papers will now have a standard duration of 60 minutes, ensuring fairness and giving students ample time to demonstrate their knowledge.
Another change that has been introduced in the format from next year is that all 50 questions will be compulsory in CUET as opposed to last year when students could choose to answer 40 questions. All papers will carry 250 marks in total and there will be negative markings for every incorrect answer.
Fewer subjects and a standardised time limit create a calmer and fairer testing environment for students. This will help reduce pressure on students. With fewer questions and more time, attempting all questions is now mandatory, encouraging comprehensive understanding and rewarding thorough preparation.
In another major change, students can now choose subjects they didn’t study in Class 12, opening up new possibilities and allowing them to explore their interests more freely.
Importantly, the General Test — a separate section in CUET that asses general knowledge and analytical abilities – is now renamed as the General Aptitude Test (GAT) and made optional, providing more flexibility for students. Earlier, the General Test had a false impression that it is mandatory, which is not the case. Now, universities can make admissions to the dropped subjects using GAT scores.
Q: On what basis have the changes been made?
A: The changes have been suggested by an expert panel constituted to review CUET. The panel examined the structure and format of the test including subject choices, paper duration and marking scheme, among others.
Also, subjects that were least attempted in previous years have been removed, making the exam more efficient and relevant. The exam is more streamlined and focused on subjects with higher student interest. This decision was taken considering a rampant data analysis of the data of two test cycles. Mandatory question attempts promote comprehensive understanding and reward thorough preparation.
Q: CUET-UG is again moving back to its original CBT format. Will it not lead to similar issues of logistics and delayed admission cycle like in previous editions?
A: We acknowledge the hiccups faced in previous CUET-UG editions and we are committed to ensuring a smooth and successful CBT experience in 2025. We have taken proactive steps to address the issues encountered earlier. We have been investing significantly in upgrading the digital infrastructure at exam centres across the country. This includes enhancing server capacity, improving internet connectivity, and ensuring reliable power backup at the centres. We have also been expanding the network of exam centres to reduce the burden on individual centres and ensure easier access for students. This also allows for better management of resources and technical support. We are also considering conducting rigorous testing of the exam platform and provide comprehensive training to exam centre staff to ensure they are well-equipped to handle any technical issues. We are committed to providing clear communication and support to candidates throughout the exam process. This includes readily available NTA helpline and online resources to address any queries or concerns. We are working to strengthen the digital infrastructure at existing centres in the rural areas, ensuring reliable internet connectivity and adequate computer facilities. We are confident that these measures will ensure a smooth and successful CUET-UG 2025 and provide a fair and reliable assessment experience for all candidates.
Q: When will CUET-UG be conducted in 2025?
A: UGC and NTA are aiming to conduct CUET-UG 2025-26 earlier in the year to bring the academic cycle back on track. However, it is important to consider that it will be based on various factors such as examination schedules of ICSE, CBSE and various other state Boards. Once these exams are over, then CUET can be conducted. It is also important to give students sufficient time to prepare for their CUET exams right after their board exams are over. We aim to create a streamlined timeline that minimises the gap between board exams, CUET-UG, and university admissions, ensuring a smooth transition for students entering higher education.
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