CUET (UG) 2025 vs. CUET (UG) 2024: What Changed and How Students Should Prepare
-
The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) has become the gateway to undergraduate admissions in India’s central and participating universities. With the release of CUET (UG) 2025, students, parents, and school counselors must understand key changes and how they impact exam preparation.
This blog highlights major differences between CUET 2024 and CUET 2025, their implications for students, and effective strategies for tackling the new format.
Key Changes in CUET (UG) 2025
1. Exam Mode: Fully Computer-Based (CBT) Only
- CUET 2024: Conducted in Hybrid Mode (Pen & Paper + CBT)
- CUET 2025: Only CBT, eliminating the pen-and-paper option.
Impact: Students in remote areas or those uncomfortable with digital exams must adapt to a completely online format.
2. Reduction in Subjects & Choices
- CUET 2024: 63 subjects (33 languages, 29 domain subjects, 1 General Test)
- CUET 2025: 37 subjects (13 languages, 23 domain subjects, 1 General Aptitude Test)
Impact: Some niche subjects have been removed, requiring students to select from amore limited pool of subjects.
3. Compulsory Questions – No More Optional Choices!
- 2024: Students had choice-based answering (e.g., 40 out of 50 questions per subject)
- CUET 2025: All 50 questions are compulsory
Impact: Students must answer every question, increasing pressure and risk of negative marking.
4. Exam Duration Standardization
- CUET 2024: Most tests were 45 minutes, but some subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Economics had 60 minutes.
- CUET 2025: All tests are now 60 minutes.
Impact: More structured time allocation but higher time management stress.
5. Changes in Exam Cities
- CUET 2024: 380+ exam cities (India & abroad)
- CUET 2025: Reduced to around 350 cities
- Overseas Centers Removed: Kathmandu, Kuwait City, Colombo, Jakarta
Impact: Some students may need to travel farther for their exam centers.
Implications for Students & Parents
1. Increased Exam Pressure Due to Compulsory Questions
- No option to skip tough questions – students must attempt all.
- Higher risk of negative marking since guessing becomes more frequent.
2. Broader & More Rigid Syllabus Coverage
- No selective study – students must prepare every topic in their subjects.
- Shift to NCERT syllabus for domain subjects.
3. Greater Digital Adaptation for Students in Rural Areas
- Since CBT is the only mode, students from rural areas or those with limited access to computers must practice digital mock tests extensively.
4. More Competition, More Preparation
- Fewer subject choices mean more students competing for the same subjects, making CUET 2025 more competitive.
How to Prepare for CUET (UG) 2025 Effectively
1. Master the Full Syllabus
- Since skipping questions is not an option, students must prepare every topic.
- Follow NCERT textbooks religiously for domain subjects.
2. Strengthen Time Management & Speed
- Practice full-length mock tests under timed conditions.
- Focus on accuracy to avoid negative marking.
- Develop a strategy to attempt easy questions first and keep tougher ones for later.
3. Adapt to the Computer-Based Exam Format
- Take online mock tests to build confidence in the CBT format.
- Learn how to navigate online test interfaces to avoid wasting time during the exam.
4. Improve Mental Stamina & Focus
- Train for 60-minute exams (instead of 45 mins previously).
- Use meditation and short breaks in study routines to boost concentration.
5. Select Subjects Strategically
- Since only 5 subjects are allowed, choose subjects aligned with the university course you aim for.
- Check specific university requirements before finalizing your subjects.
Final Thoughts
The CUET (UG) 2025 brings greater challenges but also new opportunities for well-prepared students. By adopting the right strategies—full syllabus preparation, digital adaptation, and time management techniques—students can maximize their CUET scores and secure admissions to top universities.
For parents and school counselors, guiding students through these changes early will be crucial in ensuring they are well-prepared for success.
Spread the Word! If you found this article helpful, share it with fellow students, teachers, and parents to ensure everyone is prepared for CUET (UG) 2025!
About the Author : Neelesh is an expert student advisor, counselor and the co-founder of Opasis
Keywords : CUET 2025 vs CUET 2024 comparison, CUET (UG) 2025 changes, CUET exam pattern 2025, CUET 2025 compulsory questions, CUET (UG) 2025 exam format, CUET CBT mode 2025
