CUET 2026 Exam: Dates, Application Form, Eligibility, Syllabus, Best Books & Preparation Tips

Introduction

The CUET 2026 Exam (Common University Entrance Test) is one of India’s most important entrance exams for admission into undergraduate courses at central and participating universities. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), CUET provides a single, unified platform for students to apply to multiple universities across India. With competition growing every year, the right preparation strategy and the Best CUET Books play a vital role in ensuring success.

In this comprehensive guide, we cover every detail about the CUET 2026 exam date, application form, eligibility, CUET syllabus 2026, and the Best Books for CUET 2026 that can help you ace your preparation.

CUET Exam Date 2026

The CUET 2026 exam date is expected to be announced by the NTA in February 2026. Based on previous trends, the CUET UG 2026 exam is likely to be conducted in May 2026. The exam will be held in multiple sessions in online (CBT) mode, and the exact schedule will be released on the official NTA CUET website — CUET.samarth.ac.in.

Students are advised to regularly visit the official portal for updates on exam dates, admit cards, and result notifications.

CUET Application Form 2026

The CUET application form 2026 will be available on the official NTA website in February or March 2026. Candidates will need to register using their email ID and mobile number and fill in details like personal information, academic qualifications, preferred subjects, and test centers.

Steps To Apply For CUET 2026:

1. Visit the official NTA CUET website – CUET.samarth.ac.in
2. Click on “New Registration” and fill in the required details.
3. Upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature.
4. Select preferred subjects and exam centers.
5. Pay the application fee online and submit the form.

It is important to double-check all entries before submission; as incorrect details may lead to disqualification.

CUET Eligibility 2026

Before filling the CUET 2026 application form, candidates must check the CUET eligibility criteria carefully.

• Educational Qualification: Students must have completed or be appearing for Class 12 or equivalent examination from a recognized board.
• Minimum Marks: A minimum of 50% aggregate marks (45% for reserved categories) is required in qualifying exams.
• Age Limit: There is no specific age limit for CUET UG 2026; however, candidates must meet the age requirements of their desired universities, if applicable.
• Subject Selection: Students can choose up to 6 subjects from different sections based on their target courses.

CUET Syllabus 2026

The CUET syllabus 2026 is primarily based on the NCERT Class 12 curriculum. The paper is divided into three main sections:

• Section I – Language: Includes reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary-based questions.
• Section II – Domain Subjects: Covers subject-specific topics like Political Science, History, Economics, Geography, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, etc.
• Section III – General Test: Tests reasoning, quantitative aptitude, current affairs, and general awareness.

Aspirants should focus on NCERT textbooks and the Best CUET Exam Preparation Books that cover conceptual and analytical learning for all sections.

Best CUET Books For 2026 Preparation

Choosing the Best Books for CUET 2026 is crucial for comprehensive preparation. Among all, Arihant’s CUET UG Chapterwise Notes & Question Bank Series stands out as one of the most trusted and recommended series for CUET aspirants.

Here are the key features that make it the Best CUET Book for 2026:

1. Chapterwise Quick Notes

Each chapter offers concise, structured notes that cover all NCERT-based topics.
They simplify complex concepts, making them easier to understand and revise.
Especially for Political Science, it explains key theories, institutions, and ideologies in simple language.

2. 1000+ NCERT-Based MCQs

This CUET 2026 book includes 1000+ objective-type questions based on NCERT patterns.
The questions are designed to cover factual, conceptual, and analytical topics comprehensively.
Regular practice helps students improve accuracy and build strong problem-solving skills.

3. 400+ Assertion–Reason & Case-Based Questions

The book features a wide variety of assertion–reason and case-study questions.
These enhance logical thinking, analytical ability, and real-world application of knowledge.
Students learn to connect theoretical knowledge with practical governance and current issues.

4. CUET 2025 Solved Paper

Includes the previous year’s CUET 2025 Solved Paper with detailed explanations.
This helps students understand the exam pattern, question trends, and difficulty level.
It’s an excellent tool for self-assessment and strategic revision before the final exam.

5. 5 Final Drill Tests

The book comes with five full-length mock tests aligned with the latest NTA exam pattern.
These tests simulate the real exam environment and help improve time management.
They ensure complete syllabus coverage and build final-stage exam confidence.

6. Mind Maps & Flash Cards

Visual learners benefit from mind maps that summarize entire chapters clearly.
Flash cards make revision quick and interactive by focusing on key terms and thinkers.
They enhance retention and recall during the final preparation phase.

Why Arihant CUET 2026 Books Stand Out

• Based on the Latest NTA CUET Pattern: Each book is updated according to the most recent test guidelines.
• Complete NCERT Coverage: Ideal for students who want to revise quickly and practice effectively.
• Trusted Brand: Arihant’s educational series is known nationwide for its accuracy and exam relevance.

Whether you’re looking for CUET Preparation Books 2026 in Political Science, Economics, History, or Science, Arihant’s CUET series ensures a complete and reliable preparation experience.

CUET Preparation Tips 2026

To make your preparation more efficient, here are some CUET Preparation Tips 2026 that every aspirant should follow:

1. Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly: Cover all NCERT topics first before moving to advanced material.
2. Create a Study Plan: Divide your schedule section-wise – Language, Domain, and General Test.
3. Practice Regularly: Solve chapterwise MCQs and mock papers to improve speed and accuracy.
4. Analyze Your Mistakes: Review incorrect answers and note down weak areas for revision.
5. Stay Consistent: Devote 2–3 hours daily and stay disciplined throughout your preparation.
6. Use Mind Maps & Flash Cards: These help in quick recall and strengthen conceptual clarity.
7. Revise Weekly: Regular revisions are essential to retain information till the exam day.

Conclusion

The CUET 2026 Exam is your gateway to India’s top universities. To stay ahead, start early, plan your preparation smartly, and choose the Best CUET Books that offer complete coverage and practical practice. With the right strategy, consistency, and reliable study material like Arihant’s CUET 2026 books, you can confidently crack CUET and secure admission to your dream college.

FAQs

Q1. Which Is The Best Book For CUET Preparation?

The Best Books for CUET 2026 are Arihant’s CUET Chapterwise Notes & Question Bank Series for all subjects. They provide concise theory, MCQs, and previous year papers for complete coverage.

Q2. How To Prepare For CUET 2026?

Follow the CUET syllabus 2026, study from NCERTs, and use Best CUET Exam Preparation Books like Arihant’s to practice chapterwise questions and mock tests.

Q3. Which Book Is Best For CUET Preparation 2026?

Arihant’s CUET 2026 Books are considered the most reliable for structured learning. They include quick notes, 1000+ MCQs, 5 mock tests, and visual aids for smart revision.