Quick Update: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued an urgent reminder for all students aspiring for postgraduate admissions. The online registration window for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) PG 2026 will close tomorrow, January 14, 2026.
If you have not submitted your application form yet, you must do it immediately on the official website, exams.nta.nic.in/CUET-PG. NTA has clearly stated that no further extension is expected. This article covers the important dates, the new changes in exam centers, and the step-by-step process to apply before the deadline expires.
Important Dates for CUET PG 2026
The NTA released the official notification in December, and the one-month window is now coming to an end. Missing this deadline means you might lose a chance to get into top central universities like DU, JNU, BHU, and HCU for the upcoming academic session.
Here is the finalized schedule you need to know:
| Event | Date |
| Registration Started | December 14, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | January 14, 2026 (up to 11:50 PM) |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | January 14, 2026 |
| Correction Window Opens | January 18, 2026 |
| Correction Window Closes | January 20, 2026 |
| Exam Dates | March 13 to April 1, 2026 |
Major Update: Exam Centers Reduced
For the 2026 session, the NTA has made a significant change regarding exam cities. The total number of exam centers has been reduced from 312 to 292. This includes 272 cities within India and 16 international cities.
Because of this reduction, NTA is now allowing candidates to select up to four city preferences (earlier it was two). This change ensures that even with fewer centers, students can get a location reasonably close to their home state. If you have already applied and want to change your city preference, you can do so during the correction window starting January 18.
How to Apply Online (Step-by-Step)
The application process is fully online. Follow these steps carefully to avoid rejection:
- Visit the Portal: Go to
exams.nta.nic.in/CUET-PG. - Registration: Click on “New Registration” and create your account using your email ID and mobile number.
- Fill Details: Log in and fill in your personal details, educational qualifications, and address.
- Select Paper Codes: Choose the subject codes (e.g., COQP11 for General MBA, SCQP09 for Computer Science) carefully based on the course you want to pursue.
- Upload Documents: Upload your scanned photograph and signature in the correct format.
- Pay Fee: Complete the payment using UPI, Net Banking, or Credit/Debit card.
- Print Confirmation: After payment, a confirmation page will be generated. Save this PDF; you will need it during admission.
Exam Pattern and Shift Timings
The CUET PG 2026 will be a Computer Based Test (CBT). The exam pattern remains similar to last year:
- Duration: 105 Minutes (1 hour 45 minutes).
- Questions: 75 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
- Marking Scheme: +4 marks for every correct answer and -1 mark for every wrong answer.
- Shifts: The exam will be conducted in three shifts daily to accommodate all subject papers.
What to Do If You Make a Mistake?
Do not panic if you made a typing error in your form. The NTA will open a Correction Window from January 18 to January 20, 2026. During this time, you can edit specific fields like your name, father’s name, university selection, and exam city preferences. However, you cannot change your mobile number or email address, so ensure those were correct during registration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply for CUET PG 2026 after January 14?
No, the NTA usually does not extend the deadline multiple times. It is highly recommended to submit your form before 11:50 PM on January 14, 2026.
Q2: Is the CUET PG exam date confirmed?
Yes, the NTA has officially announced that the exams will be held between March 13 and April 1, 2026. The detailed subject-wise date sheet will be released in February.
Q3: How many universities participate in CUET PG?
Over 190 universities, including major Central Universities, State Universities, and Deemed Universities, accept CUET PG scores for admission.
Q4: Can I choose more than one subject paper?
Yes, a candidate can choose up to four distinct question paper codes. However, you will have to pay an additional fee for each extra paper you select.
Q5: When will the Admit Card be released?
The Admit Cards are typically released 3-7 days before the exam date. You can expect them in the first week of March 2026.