CUET 2026 Exam Pattern Explained: Number of Questions, Duration & Marking Scheme

Understand the CUET 2026 Exam Format

Best CUET 2026 Pattern Explained in Delhi – your ultimate guide to cracking CUET with clarity and confidence! Before you begin your preparation, it’s crucial to understand what the CUET exam demands. CUET 2026, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), is one of the most competitive entrance exams for admission to top central and private universities. The exam is designed to test your overall aptitude through three major sections – Language Test, Domain-Specific Subjects, and General Test. Each section plays a vital role in shaping your final score and admission chances.

At Modulation Institute, we simplify the complex CUET format into an easy-to-understand structure. Our experts explain how many questions you’ll face, how marks are allotted, and how to manage time effectively to avoid negative marking. We believe that mastering the pattern is the foundation of smart preparation.

Through our Best CUET 2026 Pattern Explained in Delhi Laxmi Nagar sessions, students get real-exam simulations, question-type breakdowns, and personalized strategies to boost performance. With Modulation Institute’s expert guidance, you’ll not just learn what the exam looks like — you’ll learn how to conquer it. Start your CUET 2026 journey today and turn your preparation into success!

 

Overview of CUET 2026 Exam Structure

The CUET 2026 Exam Structure is designed to evaluate students’ overall academic and reasoning abilities for admission to top universities across India. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), CUET (Common University Entrance Test) follows a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format. The exam is divided into three major sections — Language Test (Section IA & IB), Domain-Specific Subjects (Section II), and General Test (Section III).

Each section serves a unique purpose:

  • The Language Section checks reading comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar skills.
     
  • The Domain-Specific Section evaluates your knowledge of subjects studied in Class 12 like Accountancy, History, Economics, or Biology.
     
  • The General Test measures logical reasoning, current affairs, and basic math aptitude.
     

The CUET 2026 will be conducted in multiple shifts and languages, offering flexibility for students across India. Every question will be Multiple Choice (MCQ), and the total marks vary based on the number of subjects chosen.

At Modulation Institute, we ensure students fully understand the CUET 2026 structure through detailed lectures, mock tests, and real-exam practice. Knowing the exam structure helps you plan smarter, manage time better, and score higher in the final test.

 

Section-Wise Breakdown of CUET 2026

The CUET 2026 exam is carefully structured to assess students in different skill areas — language ability, subject knowledge, and reasoning power. Understanding each section in detail is the key to effective preparation. Here’s a clear breakdown of all three sections:

 


1. Language Section (Section IA & IB)

This section tests a student’s command over English and other regional languages. It includes reading comprehension, grammar, synonyms-antonyms, and vocabulary-based questions. Students can choose from multiple languages as per their preference.

  • Total Questions: 50 (attempt any 40)
     
  • Duration: 45 minutes per language
    At Modulation Institute, we train students through daily practice passages and vocabulary drills to boost reading and accuracy skills.
     

 


2. Domain-Specific Subjects (Section II)

This section evaluates the student’s understanding of Class 12-level subjects like Accountancy, Economics, History, Political Science, Physics, Chemistry, etc. Students can choose up to 6 domain subjects based on their desired university course.

  • Total Questions: 50 (attempt any 40)
     
  • Duration: 45 minutes per subject
    We at Modulation Institute provide concept-based teaching and mock papers aligned with CUET’s syllabus to ensure high scores.
     

 


3. General Test (Section III)

This section is all about logical reasoning, current affairs, numerical ability, and general knowledge. It helps universities judge overall aptitude.

  • Total Questions: 60 (attempt any 50)
     
  • Duration: 60 minutes
    Our expert mentors help students practice daily reasoning questions and current affairs quizzes to stay ahead.

 

CUET 2026 Marking Scheme

Understanding the CUET 2026 marking scheme is extremely important before starting your preparation. It helps you plan your attempt strategy smartly and avoid unnecessary negative marking. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has kept the CUET exam pattern simple yet competitive to ensure fair assessment for all students.

Each question in CUET 2026 carries 5 marks for a correct answer. However, for every wrong answer, 1 mark will be deducted as negative marking. If you skip a question, no marks are deducted. The exam consists of Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs), where only one option is correct.

Here’s a quick overview:

  • ? Correct Answer: +5 marks
     
  • ? Wrong Answer: -1 mark
     
  • ? Unattempted Question: 0 mark
     

The final score is calculated based on the total number of correct and incorrect responses. Also, NTA uses a normalization process to balance score differences among various shifts or sessions, ensuring fairness for all students.

At Modulation Institute, we train students to focus on accuracy and time management. Our regular mock tests follow the official CUET marking scheme so that students experience the real exam environment and learn how to maximize their score effectively.

 

CUET 2026 Exam Duration and Timing

The CUET 2026 exam duration and timing are designed to give students enough flexibility and fairness during the test. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), the exam will be held in multiple shifts over several days to accommodate all registered candidates. CUET 2026 is a Computer-Based Test (CBT), and each subject or section is allotted a fixed time limit.

Here’s the section-wise duration:

  • Language Test (Section IA & IB): 45 minutes per language
     
  • Domain-Specific Subjects (Section II): 45 minutes per subject
     
  • General Test (Section III): 60 minutes
     

Students can choose a combination of subjects, and their total exam time will depend on the number of subjects selected. Each shift usually lasts between 2 to 3 hours.

Managing time effectively is crucial. Students should avoid spending too long on one question and ensure all sections are attempted strategically.

At Modulation Institute, we train students through timed mock tests and real-exam simulations, helping them practice under exact CUET conditions. By mastering time management and accuracy, students can boost their confidence and perform their best on exam day.

 

CUET 2026 Paper Pattern Summary Table

Here’s a quick and clear summary of the CUET 2026 paper pattern to help you understand the structure at a glance. This table highlights the number of questions, duration, and marking scheme for each section of the exam.

Section

Details

Total Questions

Questions to Attempt

Duration

Marking Scheme

Section IA – Language Test

Tests reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary in English or regional languages

50

40

45 minutes per language

+5 for correct, -1 for incorrect

Section IB – Additional Language

Optional second language (Hindi, Sanskrit, etc.)

50

40

45 minutes per language

+5 for correct, -1 for incorrect

Section II – Domain-Specific Subjects

Based on Class 12 syllabus; subjects like Accountancy, Economics, History, Physics, etc.

50

40

45 minutes per subject

+5 for correct, -1 for incorrect

Section III – General Test

Includes reasoning, quantitative aptitude, current affairs, and general knowledge

60

50

60 minutes

+5 for correct, -1 for incorrect

 


At Modulation Institute, we use this exact CUET 2026 paper pattern in our mock tests to ensure students get familiar with the real exam format. Understanding this table helps you plan better, manage time smartly, and maximize your overall score with confidence.



 

How Modulation Institute Helps You Master the CUET Exam Pattern

At Modulation Institute, we understand that knowing the CUET 2026 exam pattern is just the first step. To score high, students need practical strategies, regular practice, and expert guidance. Here’s how we help students master the exam:

  1. Detailed Section-Wise Training
     
    • Our expert faculty break down each section — Language, Domain-Specific Subjects, and General Test — explaining question types, important topics, and time management techniques.
       
  2. Mock Tests & Real Exam Simulations
     
    • Students take multiple CUET pattern mock tests that mirror the real exam, helping them get used to the timing, pressure, and question styles.
       
  3. Previous Year Question Analysis
     
    • We analyze trends from past CUET exams to help students identify frequently asked topics and question patterns.
       
  4. Personalized Mentorship
     
    • Every student gets guidance tailored to their strengths and weaknesses, ensuring focused preparation for maximum results.
       
  5. Time Management & Accuracy Practice
     
    • Through timed practice sessions, students learn how to attempt the paper efficiently, balancing speed with accuracy to avoid negative marking.
       

By joining Modulation Institute, students don’t just learn the CUET pattern — they master it confidently. Our approach ensures that every aspirant is fully prepared to tackle CUET 2026 with strategy, speed, and precision.





 

Expert Tips for Students

Cracking CUET 2026 requires more than hard work; it needs smart strategies. At Modulation Institute, we guide students with practical tips to maximize their performance and tackle every section confidently. Here are some expert tips:

  1. Understand the Exam Pattern First
     
    • Before diving into preparation, get familiar with CUET 2026’s sections, marking scheme, and duration. Knowing the structure helps you plan your study schedule effectively.
       
  2. Focus on High-Weightage Topics
     
    • Analyze past papers to identify important topics in Language, Domain-Specific Subjects, and General Test. Prioritize these to secure maximum marks.
       
  3. Practice Mock Tests Regularly
     
    • Attempting full-length CUET pattern mock tests improves speed, accuracy, and confidence. Review mistakes after each test to avoid repeating them.
       
  4. Time Management is Key
     
    • Divide your time wisely across sections. Don’t spend too long on one question; aim to attempt all questions strategically.
       
  5. Stay Updated with Current Affairs
     
    • For the General Test, stay aware of recent events, national & international news, and general knowledge topics. Short daily revisions work best.
       
  6. Maintain Accuracy to Avoid Negative Marking
     
    • Answer carefully; every wrong answer leads to a deduction. Practice accuracy alongside speed.
       

Following these tips from Modulation Institute experts ensures students are well-prepared to tackle CUET 2026 with confidence and achieve their desired scores.



 

Conclusion: Decode, Prepare, and Succeed with Modulation Institute

Understanding the CUET 2026 exam pattern is the foundation for smart preparation. From knowing the number of questions, duration, and marking scheme to mastering section-wise strategies, every detail matters in achieving a high score. With the right guidance, students can approach the exam confidently and strategically.

At Modulation Institute, we help students decode the CUET pattern with expert-led sessions, mock tests, and personalized mentorship. Our focus is on building clarity, speed, and accuracy, ensuring that every aspirant is fully prepared for the real exam. We emphasize practice, real-exam simulations, and trend analysis to help students excel in all sections – Language, Domain-Specific Subjects, and General Test.

By joining Modulation Institute, you are not just preparing for CUET 2026; you are learning to strategize, practice efficiently, and succeed confidently. Start your preparation today with the institute that turns aspirations into results, and make CUET 2026 a stepping stone to your dream university.