The National Testing Agency (NTA) has reopened the online application platform for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET-UG) 2026, providing candidates with another opportunity to submit their applications and process application fees until February 26, 2026.
Originally, the application period was open from January 3 to January 30, 2026, with fee payments accepted until January 31 at 11:50 pm. The deadline was later extended once to February 4, while the fee payment period was extended until February 7.
In a public announcement dated February 23, 2026, the NTA revealed that the reactivation of the submission platform would take effect from the afternoon of February 23. This decision follows numerous requests from candidates nationwide seeking an additional extension of the deadline.
CUET UG 2026 Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for CUET UG 2026
Step 1: Navigate to the official website—cuet.nta.nic.in.
Step 2: Access the CUET UG 2026 registration link
Step 3: Complete the online CUET UG application with personal information
Step 4: Provide qualification details in the online application
Step 5: Upload scanned copies of photograph and signature in the required format
Step 6: Make fee payment via the online payment method
Step 7: Submit and download the CUET UG application form 2026
CUET UG will be administered in 13 languages throughout India and abroad for admission into undergraduate courses available at Central Universities and other participating institutions.
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Exam format and dates
The CUET-UG 2026 exam is planned to be held in Computer-Based Test (CBT) format from May 11 to May 31, 2026 (tentative), at centers across India and in select international cities. The CUET UG 2026 examination will be held for admission to undergraduate programs across 47 central universities and more than 300 colleges nationwide.
The agency has emphasised that this is a unique extended timeframe, one that comes with stringent conditions. Applicants have been specifically cautioned that no amendment option will be available once the application form is submitted.
CUET UG 2025 took place from May 13 to June 4 over a span of 19 days in 35 different shifts. In 2024, CUET UG was conducted between May 15 and 29, while in 2023 it was scheduled in stages from May 21 to June 23.
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