UGC Announces Major Changes To CUET-UG Starting 2025

Starting in 2025, the Common University Entrance Test for Undergraduate courses (CUET-UG) will undergo significant changes, as announced by UGC Chairman Jagadesh Kumar. These changes are aimed at transforming the exam into a computer-based test (CBT) exclusively, allowing students greater flexibility in choosing subjects outside their class 12 syllabus. This move is designed to encourage interdisciplinary learning and broaden academic pathways for students.

Kumar, in a conversation with PTI, revealed that an expert panel appointed by the University Grants Commission (UGC) has thoroughly reviewed the CUET-UG format and recommended several updates. Among the notable changes, the examination will shift from its previous hybrid mode to solely CBT by 2025. This alteration is part of a broader effort to streamline the testing process and enhance its reliability.

The UGC's decision to limit the number of subjects available for testing from 63 to 37 marks another significant revision. This reduction aims to simplify the admissions process, with the General Aptitude Test (GAT) scores being used for subjects no longer directly tested. Additionally, candidates will have the opportunity to select subjects in the CUET-UG that they did not study in class 12, promoting a multidisciplinary approach to higher education.

Exploring further adjustments, Kumar highlighted that the maximum number of subjects a student can appear for in the CUET-UG will be reduced to five from the previous six. This adjustment is part of a series of measures to make the examination process more straightforward for students. Moreover, the exam duration has been standardized to 60 minutes for all subjects, eliminating the previous variability and optional questions, thereby making all questions compulsory.

The introduction of these changes comes in the wake of technical issues that marred the inaugural CUET-UG in 2022, including the need for score normalization due to tests being conducted in multiple shifts. The 2024 trial of the exam in hybrid mode faced cancellation in Delhi just before its scheduled date, citing logistical challenges.

Kumar's announcement indicates a significant shift towards enhancing the flexibility, fairness, and accessibility of the CUET-UG. By adopting a computer-based format and allowing students to explore subjects beyond their class 12 curriculum, the UGC aims to break down traditional academic barriers and foster a more inclusive and interdisciplinary approach to higher education. This evolution of the CUET-UG reflects an ongoing commitment to adapting India's educational assessments to the needs of a diverse student population.