CUET Fine Arts Syllabus 2026 (Released), PDF Download, Unit-wise Topics

CUET Fine Arts Syllabus 2026 has been officially released by the National Testing Agency (NTA), outlining comprehensive unit-wise topics for the domain-specific paper in Performing and Visual Arts streams. Candidates preparing for CUET UG 2026 can now download the detailed PDF syllabus from the NTA website, covering key areas like art history, techniques, aesthetics, and practical elements essential for undergraduate admissions. The syllabus emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and creative skills, with structured units on Indian art traditions, modern movements, sculpture, painting methods, and critical analysis to assess holistic artistic aptitude.

This updated framework aligns with NEP 2020 guidelines, helping aspirants focus their preparation effectively ahead of the exam tentatively scheduled for May-June 2026. Download the CUET Fine Arts Syllabus 2026 PDF promptly to plan topic-wise study schedules and practice sessions for optimal performance.​

Unit Wise CUET Fine Arts Syllabus 2026

CUET syllabus 2026 for Fine Arts  is designed to assess a student’s understanding of Indian art history, focusing on traditional painting styles, cultural nationalism, and modern Indian art trends. The syllabus is divided into four major units:

Unit 1: The Rajasthani and Pahari Schools of Miniature Painting (16th to 19th Century A.D.)

Introduction to Indian Miniature Schools, Includes: Western-Indian, Pala, Rajasthani, Mughal, Central India, Deccan, and Pahari.

A. The Rajasthani Schools

• Origin and Development (in brief):
  Mewar, Bundi, Bikaner, Kishangarh, Jaipur

• Main Features of Rajasthani schools

Study of the Following Rajasthani Paintings:

B. The Pahari Schools

• Origin and Development (in brief):
  Basohli, Guler, Kangra

• Main Features of the Pahari schools

Study of the Following Pahari Paintings:

Unit 2: The Mughal and Deccan Schools of Miniature Painting (16th to 19th Century A.D.)

A. The Mughal School

• Origin and Development of the Mughal School

• Main Features of Mughal miniature painting

Study of the Following Mughal Paintings:

B. The Deccani School

• Origin and Development of Deccani painting

• Main Features of Deccani style

Study of the Following Deccani Paintings:

Unit 3: The Bengal School and Cultural Nationalism

Introduction to New Era in Indian Art

Study of the Following Paintings:

Unit 4: The Modern Trends in Indian Art Introduction

• Indian Modern Art
• Study of the Following Sculptures
• Study of the Following Paintings

Study of the Following Sculptures:

Study of the Following Paintings:

CUET Fine Arts Exam Pattern 2026

Understanding the cuet exam structure 2026 is essential for effective preparation. The CUET (UG) 2026 Fine Arts paper, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), evaluates students on both theoretical knowledge and visual understanding based on the Class 12 Fine Arts syllabus. 

This format applies across all Fine Arts domains: Painting, Applied Arts, Sculpture.

Also Check : CUET  Eligibility Criteria

CUET Fine Arts Important Topics 2026 to Focus

• Differences between Rajasthani, Pahari, Mughal styles

• Contribution of Bengal School and Cultural Nationalism

• Names and works of iconic Indian artists and sculptors

• Modern Art movements and their features

• Visual memory-based questions from famous artworks

CUET Fine Arts Syllabus 2026 PDF Download

CUET Fine Arts Syllabus 2026 PDF is now available for direct download from the official NTA CUET website (cuet.nta.nic.in), providing aspirants with the complete unit-wise breakdown of topics. Candidates need to navigate to the 'Syllabus' section, select the Fine Arts domain paper, and download the PDF which includes detailed sub-topics on visual arts, performing arts, art history, and practical techniques. This official document serves as the primary resource for exam preparation, ensuring alignment with the latest NTA guidelines for CUET UG 2026. Save and print the PDF immediately for offline reference during structured study planning.​

CUET Fine Arts Syllabus 2026 PDF Download - Click Here

CUET Fine Arts Eligibility and Course Scope

To apply for CUET Fine Arts courses in 2026, candidates must have completed their Class 12 (10+2) from a recognized board with a minimum percentage as prescribed by the cuet participating universities (usually around 50% for general category and 45% for reserved categories). There are no specific stream restrictions, so students from Arts, Science, or Commerce backgrounds can apply, provided they meet the basic eligibility requirements. The scope of Fine Arts courses through CUET is vast and creative. After clearing the CUET and securing admission in courses like Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), students can specialize in areas such as Painting, Applied Arts, Sculpture, Printmaking, or Visual Communication. These programs help students build a strong foundation in traditional and modern art forms, art history, aesthetics, and design skills.

Graduates can pursue careers as professional artists, illustrators, art directors, graphic designers, curators, art teachers, or even enter fields like animation, advertising, digital media, and gallery management. Additionally, Fine Arts also opens doors for higher studies (MFA, PG Diploma) or civil services with Art and Culture as optional subjects.

CUET Fine Arts Syllabus 2026 Preparation Strategy

To prepare effectively for the CUET UG Fine Arts exam, start by reviewing the complete CUET Fine Arts syllabus 2026 carefully. The exam typically covers topics from Indian Art History, Miniature and Mughal Paintings, Bengal School, and Modern Indian Art, so focus on the key periods and major artists featured in these sections.

• Understand the exam format: The paper will contain 50 multiple-choice questions, all of which must be attempted. Each correct answer earns +5 marks, and every wrong answer deducts 1 mark. This makes accuracy just as important as speed.

• Plan your study schedule: Break the CUET UG Fine Arts syllabus 2026 into smaller units and create a structured timetable. Prioritize topics that involve visual memory and factual details, such as identifying artists, styles, schools of painting, and major sculptures.

• Use visual aids: Since Fine Arts is a subject that relies on observation and appreciation, use image-based learning—refer to artworks, paintings, and sculptures frequently. Create comparison charts for different schools of art and maintain a gallery folder of important works.

• Practice with mock tests: Attempt sample papers and CUET  previous year question papers to familiarize yourself with the question style and improve time management. Analyze your mistakes and work on weak areas.

• Revise with short notes: As the exam approaches, use the last few weeks to revise using flashcards, artist profiles, and timeline charts. Focus on dates, art movements, and features of specific schools of art. Include frequent visual revision to retain image-based content.

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