CUET PG 2026 Exam Begins Tomorrow: Key Guidelines Every Candidate Must Follow
The Common University Entrance Test for Postgraduate programmes (CUET PG 2026) is set to commence on 6 March 2026, with the National Testing Agency (NTA) overseeing the examination. The computer-based test will continue until 27 March across designated centres nationwide, serving as the gateway for admissions to central and participating universities offering postgraduate courses.
With the exam scheduled to begin shortly, the NTA has released a comprehensive advisory outlining essential instructions for candidates. This guidance covers reporting times, identity verification procedures, mandatory documentation, and restrictions on prohibited items at examination venues. Familiarising yourself with these requirements beforehand can help ensure a smooth and stress-free test experience.
Verify Your Admit Card Details Carefully
Candidates are strongly advised to thoroughly review all information printed on their CUET PG 2026 admit cards. This includes verifying the examination date, shift timing, subject code, and the complete address of the assigned test centre. Any discrepancy, however minor, should be addressed well before the exam day.
Pay close attention to the reporting time mentioned on the admit card, as well as the deadline for gate closure. The NTA recommends that candidates visit their examination centre a day in advance to familiarise themselves with the location and route. This precaution can help avoid last-minute confusion or delays on the actual test day.
Special Guidance for Candidates with Disabilities
Candidates belonging to the Persons with Disabilities (PwD/PwBD) category are encouraged to conduct a preliminary visit to their assigned test centre. If any accessibility-related concerns are identified during this inspection, candidates should promptly bring these issues to the NTA’s attention. Taking this proactive step ensures that necessary arrangements can be made in advance.
Earlier Reporting Required for Non-Aadhaar Applicants
Those candidates who utilised identification documents other than Aadhaar during the application process will need to arrive at their test centre well before the standard reporting time. This additional time accounts for the extended verification procedures these candidates must complete.
Specifically, such candidates should plan to reach the examination venue at least one hour prior to gate closure. Biometric scanning and identity confirmation will be conducted before entry is granted, so allowing sufficient buffer time is essential to avoid any complications.
Essential Documents for Exam Entry
Admission to the examination hall will only be permitted upon presentation of the required documentation. Candidates must ensure they carry the following items:
- A printed copy of the CUET PG 2026 admit card, clearly printed on A4 paper
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- An original photo identification document
Acceptable forms of photo identification include:
- PAN card
- Driving licence
- Voter ID
- Passport
- Aadhaar card or e-Aadhaar
- Ration card
- Aadhaar enrolment number with photograph
The NTA has explicitly stated that digital copies stored on mobile devices, scanned versions, or photocopies of identification documents will not be accepted. Only original physical documents will be considered valid for verification purposes.
Strict Ban on Electronic Devices
Carrying mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, Bluetooth devices, or any other electronic gadgets into the examination centre is strictly prohibited. Authorities have made it clear that the examination centre will not assume responsibility for the safekeeping of such items. Candidates are urged to leave all restricted belongings at home to avoid any inconvenience.
However, certain allowances have been made for candidates with diabetes. Those requiring medical accommodations may bring sugar tablets, fruits such as bananas, apples, or oranges, and a transparent water bottle into the examination hall.
Examination Under CCTV Surveillance
To maintain the integrity of the examination process, the NTA has implemented stringent monitoring measures. All test centres will operate under continuous live CCTV surveillance, and signal jammers have been installed to prevent any form of unfair practices. Candidates should be aware that any suspicious activity will be closely monitored and may result in severe consequences.
Familiarise Yourself with the Digital Test Interface
Given that the examination is conducted entirely in computer-based mode, candidates are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the digital testing interface beforehand. Before the test commences, students must verify that the subject and language displayed on the computer screen correspond exactly to the details mentioned on their admit card. Any mismatch should be reported to the invigilator immediately.
The NTA has clearly stated that no candidate will be permitted entry after the designated gate closure time. It is therefore imperative that all candidates arrive at their examination centre with sufficient time to spare, complete all verification formalities, and settle into their assigned seats well before the scheduled start of the test.
