CUET: An Umbrella for Universities Across the Nation

CUET, the Central Universities Common Entrance Test, is a one-stop entrance exam for securing admissions in 47 central, 57 state, 37 deemed, 196 private, and 8 other universities. It was designed to create an umbrella for several universities, allowing students to focus more on exams than the application process. The exam is conducted by the

National Testing Agency (NTA) annually in June-July. In 2024, the overall attendance on the second day of CUET ranged from 77-85% across different subject tests. This data from DU CUET UG applications indicates an increase in the number of students applying for graduation courses through CUET. The results for CUET

UG courses are expected around June 30th. While waiting, students can engage in other  activities or volunteering, which can help build a better profile and alleviate stress.

Structure of the CUET Examination

CUET is a Computer Based Test (CBT) consisting of objective type Multiple Choice

Questions (MCQs). The paper is divided into three sections:

● Section I (IA and IB) assesses language proficiency.

● Section II tests knowledge in the chosen domain.

● Section III evaluates general knowledge.

The time duration for the first and second sections is 45 minutes each, with 45 out of 50 questions to be attempted. In the third section, students have one hour to attempt 60 out of 75 questions. Each question carries 5 marks, with a one-mark deduction for each wrong answer.

Key Changes in CUET UG 2024 Pattern (Times of India)

The CUET UG 2024 pattern has undergone significant changes, eliciting mixed reactions from students. Some key changes include:

● Students can now choose up to 6 subjects for Section II, down from 10.

● CUET scores will not be normalized in 2024.

● Exam duration for most sections has been reduced to 45 minutes, except for specific subjects like Chemistry and Physics.

● The number of exam centers has increased from 313 to over 400, addressing logistical challenges.

Pros and Cons of CUET Examination

Like any other system, CUET has its advantages and disadvantages:

Pros:

● Eliminates university biases, ensuring fair assessment for all students.

● Enables universities to select the best candidates from a nationwide pool.

● Reduces the emphasis on board exam results, leading to less stress.

Cons:

● Focuses primarily on academic progress, neglecting extracurricular activities.

● Adds an extra burden alongside board exams, potentially causing stress.

The Bottom Line

In the competitive world of education, CUET streamlines the admission process and prepares students for real-world challenges like time management and financial planning. It provides a framework for students aspiring to study at universities that align with their skills and interests.