The Ultimate Guide to CUET UG 2026 Registration: Dates, Process & Essential Tips

Your Gateway to Top Universities Begins Here

The CUET UG 2026 registration is your first and most crucial step toward securing a seat in over 270+ Central, State, Private, and Deemed Universities across India. As the single largest gateway for undergraduate admissions, the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) has revolutionized the admission landscape. For the 2026 academic session, the process is set to begin, and this comprehensive guide will walk you through every single detail, ensuring you don’t miss a beat.

CUET UG 2026 Registration at a Glance

CUET UG 2026 registration is open, starting January 3, 2026, and closing around January 30, 2026, with fee payment until January 31, 2026, on the official NTA CUET portal. To apply, visit the website, register, fill the form with details and subject choices, upload documents, pay the fee, and download the confirmation page. The exam itself is tentatively scheduled for May 11-31, 2026, for undergraduate admissions.

Key Dates

• Registration Start: January 3, 2026
• Registration End: January 30, 2026 (11:50 PM)
• Fee Payment End: January 31, 2026 (11:50 PM)
• Application Correction Window: February 2-4, 2026
• Exam Dates (Tentative): May 11-31, 2026

How to Register

1. Go to the official website: cuet.nta.nic.in.
2. Click on “New Registration” and create an account.
3. Log in and fill out the application form with personal, academic, and exam preference details.
4. Upload scanned photo, signature, and other required documents.
5. Pay the application fee online (UPI, Credit/Debit Card, Net Banking).
6. Submit the form and save/print the confirmation page.

Important Points

• You can choose up to 5 subjects, including languages and the General Aptitude Test.
• Fees vary by category and number of subjects.
• Stay updated on the NTA website for city/admit card announcements.

Why is CUET UG 2026 Registration So Critical?

CUET (UG) standardizes university admissions nationwide, acting as a single gateway to central (DU, JNU, BHU) & state/private universities (like Odisha’s RCM for BBA+, MBA+, BCA+), making precise 2026 registration crucial for accessing these opportunities, as mistakes can hinder access to top programs. But it all begins with a flawless CUET UG 2026 registration—one small mistake can cost you big. This guide helps you register right and move confidently toward top universities and programs like RCM’s.

CUET UG 2026 Registration: Complete Step-by-Step Breakdown

Step 1: Pre-Registration Preparation

Don’t wait for the registration window to open to start scrambling. Being prepared is half the battle won. Here’s your pre-registration checklist:

• Valid Email ID & Mobile Number: This will be your primary communication channel with the NTA. Ensure it’s active and accessible only to you.
• Scanned Documents: Prepare digital copies in the prescribed format.
  • Passport-sized Photograph: Recent, clear, with a white background. Size: 10 KB to 200 KB. Format: JPG/JPEG.
  • Signature: Signature on white paper with a black pen. Size: 4 KB to 30 KB. Format: JPG/JPEG.
  • Category Certificate (if applicable): SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS. Size: 50 KB to 500 KB. PDF format.
  • PwBD Certificate (if applicable). Size: 50 KB to 500 KB. PDF format.
• Academic Details: Keep your Class 10 and Class 12 (or equivalent) mark sheets handy for accurate information entry.
• University & Program Research: Before filling the form, decide on the universities and specific undergraduate programs you are targeting. This will directly influence your subject choices in the CUET UG 2026 application form.

Step 2: New Registration on the Official Portal

1. Visit the only official website for CUET UG 2026 registration: https://cuet.nta.nic.in. 
2. Click on the link for “CUET (UG) – 2026” and then on “New Registration.”
3. Carefully read the instructions and proceed.
4. Fill in the required basic details to generate your Application Number and Password. These credentials are vital for all future logins. Save them securely.

Step 3: Filling the CUET UG 2026 Application Form

This is the core of the process. The form is divided into logical sections:

• Section 1: Personal Details: Name, Parents’ Name, Date of Birth, Gender, Category, etc. Match these exactly with your official documents.
• Section 2: Address for Communication: Provide a permanent and correspondence address.
• Section 3: Academic Details: Enter details of your qualifying examination (Class 12) and Class 10. You’ll need marks, board, year of passing, etc.
• Section 4: Choice of Examination Centers: Select your preferred exam cities from the list provided by NTA. Choose wisely.
• Section 5: Choice of Subjects/Test Papers (Most Crucial Step):
  • Language(s): You can opt for up to 3 languages from Section 1A (e.g., English, Hindi) and Section 1B (e.g., French, German).
  • Domain Subjects: Choose up to 5 subjects that are relevant to the UG program you wish to pursue (e.g., Physics, Chemistry, History, Political Science, Economics).
  • General Test: Optional, but highly recommended as many top universities consider it for admissions across streams.
  Pro Tip: Your subject selection must align perfectly with the eligibility criteria of your desired university programs. Cross-check university prospectuses before finalizing.

Step 4: Uploading Scanned Images & Documents

Navigate to the upload section. Use the “Upload” button corresponding to each item. Ensure:

• The photograph is clear and recognizable.
• The signature is within the box and not smudged.
• File sizes are as per the specification to avoid upload failure.

Step 5: Payment of CUET UG 2026 Application Fee

The fee is variable and depends on:

• Your category (General, OBC, SC/ST, EWS, PwBD).
• The number of subjects chosen.
• Whether you are applying for centers in India or abroad.

Example Fee Structure (Based on previous years):

• For up to 3 subjects (General/Unreserved): ~₹750
• For up to 7 subjects (General/Unreserved): ~₹1500
• For up to 10 subjects (General/Unreserved): ~₹1750
  (Fees are lower for OBC, SC/ST, PwBD categories)

Payment Modes: Use Net Banking, Credit Card, Debit Card, or UPI. Complete the payment process. A successful transaction will generate a confirmation page.

Step 6: Final Submission and Confirmation

Once the fee is paid, review your entire application thoroughly. After final submission, download and print the Confirmation Page for your records. This page contains your unique Application Number and is proof of successful CUET UG 2026 registration.

Crucial Post-Registration Steps

1. Application Correction Window (Feb 2-4, 2026): The NTA typically opens a short window to correct minor mistakes in the form (except for certain details like name, DOB, etc.). Use this if needed.
2. Downloading the Admit Card: Tentatively in April/May 2026. Log in with your credentials to download it. It is your entry ticket to the exam hall.
3. Exam Day: The CUET UG 2026 exam will be a Computer-Based Test (CBT) held over multiple shifts across the tentative dates of May 11 to 31, 2026.

Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid During CUET UG 2026 Registration

1. Using Incorrect Personal Details: Any mismatch with official documents can lead to disqualification.
2. Wrong Subject Selection: This is irreversible post-correction window and can ruin your university eligibility.
3. Ignoring the General Test: Not opting for it can close doors to many general BA/BCom/BSc programs.
4. Last-Minute Rush: Server overload is common on the last day. Complete the process well before January 30, 2026.
5. Incorrect Document Format/Size: This can cause failed submission.
6. Not Saving Credentials: Losing your Application Number and Password creates unnecessary hassle.
7. Assuming Auto-Save: The form does not auto-save. Save each page manually.
8. Skipping the Final Review: Double-check every entry, especially test paper choices and exam cities.
9. Not Downloading the Confirmation Page: This is your only proof of application.
10. Relying on Unofficial Sources: For all updates, rely solely on cuet.nta.nic.in.

Beyond Registration: Preparing for CUET UG 2026

While registration is key, your preparation strategy defines your rank. Focus on:

• Understanding the Syllabus: NCERT Class 12 textbooks form the core for most domain subjects.
• Practicing with Mock Tests: Familiarize yourself with the CBT pattern, time management, and question types.
• Analyzing Previous Years’ Papers: Identify important topics and question trends.

To build a robust preparation strategy, consider exploring resources from established educational platforms. For instance, Careers360 offers detailed analysis of CUET patterns and preparation tips, while comprehensive guides on exam strategy can be found on portals like RCM. Furthermore, for the latest official updates and announcements, always refer back to the NTA CUET website.

FAQs

Q1. What if I miss the CUET UG 2026 registration deadline of January 30, 2026?
Ans: The NTA does not entertain late applications. Missing the deadline means you cannot appear for CUET UG 2026. Mark the dates prominently.

Q2. Can I edit my subject choices after the final submission?
Ans: You can make limited corrections during the official correction window (tentatively Feb 2-4, 2026). Major changes in subjects may not be allowed. Choose wisely initially.

Q3. Is the CUET UG 2026 registration fee refundable?
Ans: No, the application fee is non-refundable under any circumstances.

Q4. Do I need to send a hard copy of the confirmation page to NTA?
Ans: No, the process is completely online. Just keep the downloaded copy safe.

Q5. How many universities can I apply to with one CUET form?
Ans: There’s no limit. Your single CUET score can be used to apply to all participating universities as per their individual admission counseling processes.

Conclusion: Your Future Awaits

The CUET UG 2026 registration is more than just a formality; it is the first active step you take towards shaping your academic career. By following this guide meticulously, you ensure that this step is firm and confident. Bookmark this page, prepare your documents, and be ready to hit the “Submit” button as soon as the portal opens. Stay focused, stay informed, and let your journey to a premier central university begin successfully.

Remember: Success in CUET is a combination of a flawless registration and dedicated preparation. Start your engines for both!

For the latest updates, expert guidance, and complete exam-related information, visit the RCM website blog page and stay one step ahead in your CUET UG 2026 journey.