CUET Physics Exam Pattern 2026, Marking Scheme, Important Topics, Preparation Tips
CUET Physics Exam Pattern 2026 is expected to remain a Domain Subject test conducted in CBT (Computer-Based Test) mode by the NTA. The paper will feature 50 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), to be attempted in a duration of 60 minutes. The CUET Physics Marking Scheme 2026 is strict, awarding +5 marks for every correct answer and deducting -1 mark for every incorrect answer, leading to a maximum score of 250
Amit kumar Singh2 Dec, 2025
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CUET Physics Exam Pattern 2026 is one of the important steps for every aspirant. The National Testing Agency (NTA) structures the papers specific to the domain in order to test a comprehensive knowledge of the candidate. It also checks the conceptual clarity and skills of candidates to solve problems based on the Class 12 NCERT syllabus. Having the knowledge about the number of questions, total marks, and the negative marking system, students can effectively plan their strategy. Also, the CUET Physics Marking Scheme 2026 helps candidates maximise their score and secure admission to their desired university.
The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) is the mandatory entrance examination for admission into all Undergraduate programs offered by Central Universities in CUET and many other participating institutions across India. For students aiming for B.Sc. (Hons) Physics, B.Tech., or other Science stream courses, Physics is a crucial domain subject.
CUET Physics Exam Pattern 2026 Overview
Physics paper of CUET falls under Section 2 of the CUET UG 2026 examination. Here is the expected exam pattern for CUET 2026 based on the latest trends and previous official notifications:
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CUET Physics Exam Pattern 2026 (Expected) |
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Parameter |
Details |
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Exam Name |
Common University Entrance Test (CUET) UG 2026 - Physics |
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Conducting Body |
National Testing Agency (NTA) |
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Exam Mode |
Online (Computer-Based Test - CBT) |
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Section |
Section II (Domain Subjects) |
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Medium of Exam |
13 Languages (English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, etc.) |
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Total Questions in Paper |
50 Questions |
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Questions to be Attempted |
50 Questions |
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Type of Questions |
Objective Type (Multiple Choice Questions - MCQs) |
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Duration of Paper |
60 Minutes |
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250 Marks (50 questions x 5 marks) |
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Negative Marking |
Yes |
Detailed CUET Physics Marking Scheme 2026
CUET follows a standardised marking system in all domain subjects. The CUET Physics Marking Scheme 2026 is important to score well. The penalty for incorrect answers requires a careful selection of questions and a proper strategy to solve them. Here is the expected marking scheme for cuet physics 2026 based on previous year trends:
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Detailed CUET Physics Marking Scheme 2026 (Expected) |
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Component |
Marks Allotted |
Weightage |
Description |
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Correct Answer |
+5 Marks |
Highest |
Marks are awarded for every correct response. |
|
Incorrect Answer |
-1 Mark |
Penalty |
Marks are deducted for every incorrect response. |
|
Unattempted Question |
0 Mark |
Neutral |
No marks deducted or awarded for unanswered questions. |
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Multiple Correct/Dropped Question |
+5 Marks |
Bonus |
If a question is dropped or all options are correct, full marks are awarded to all candidates who attempted it. |
|
Maximum Marks |
250 Marks |
N/A |
Calculated based on 50 correct attempts. |
Important Note: Given the -1 mark deduction, students are advised to avoid attempting questions with random guesswork. Candidates are suggested to attempt only those questions where they are confident, especially in numerical or conceptual questions.
CUET Physics Exam Pattern 2026 Unit-Wise Structure
CUET Physics syllabus is completely based on the NCERT Class 12 curriculum. The test covers 9 to 10 units, with a different number of questions. Here is the expected structure, which reflects the CUET Physics Important Topics 2026 by unit weightage from previous year exams:
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CUET Physics Exam Pattern 2026 Structure |
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Unit No. |
Unit Name |
Expected Number of Questions |
High-Weightage Topics |
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I |
Electrostatics |
5-7 |
Gauss’s Law & its applications, Capacitance of parallel plate capacitor, combination of capacitors. |
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II |
Current Electricity |
5-7 |
Drift Velocity, Ohm's Law, Kirchhoff’s Laws (KVL & KCL), Potentiometer & Meter Bridge. |
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III |
Magnetic Effects of Current and Magnetism |
6-8 |
Biot-Savart Law, Ampere's Law, Solenoid, Cyclotron, Force between two parallel current-carrying conductors. |
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IV |
Electromagnetic Induction and Alternating Currents (AC) |
5-6 |
Faraday’s Laws, Lenz’s Law, LCR series circuit, Resonance, Transformer. |
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V |
Electromagnetic Waves |
3-4 |
Characteristics of EM Waves, Electromagnetic Spectrum and their uses. |
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VI |
Optics (Ray and Wave) |
7-9 |
Reflection, Refraction, Total Internal Reflection (TIR), Lens Maker’s Formula, Huygens’ Principle, Young’s Double Slit Experiment (YDSE). |
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VII |
Dual Nature of Matter and Radiation |
3-4 |
Photoelectric Effect, Einstein’s equation, de Broglie relation. |
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VIII |
Atoms and Nuclei |
3-4 |
Bohr Model, Hydrogen Spectrum, Mass Defect, Binding Energy, Nuclear Fission and Fusion. |
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IX |
Electronic Devices |
3-4 |
p-n junction diode (I-V characteristics), Zener diode, Logic Gates (AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR). |
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Total |
50 Questions |
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How to Prepare for CUET Physics Exam 2026?
Effective preparation for the CUET Physics domain subject requires a focused approach. This approach is helpful in maintaining balance between theory, numerical practice, and time management. Candidates can follow these tips to navigate the CUET Physics Exam Pattern 2026:
Master the Textbook of NCERT
The CUET domain syllabus is properly based on the Class 12 NCERT textbook. Every definition, example, and exercise problem should be covered completely.
Conceptual Clarity: Physics is not just about formulas. It is about understanding concepts. Candidates need to focus on the why behind phenomena like Eddy Currents, TIR, and the working of diodes.
Derivations and Formulas: Maintain a separate notebook for all formulas, SI units, and dimensional formulas. Regular revision is key to retaining these facts.
Prioritize High-Weightage Topics
Based on the structure and expected weightage, aspirants are advised to dedicate more time to the CUET Physics Important Topics 2026. Here are a few topics which can be taken care for learning with high priority:
Optics: Practice ray diagram drawing skills and numerical problems related to lenses, mirrors, and YDSE.
Current Electricity & Electrostatics: Focus heavily on circuit analysis (Kirchhoff’s Laws), resistivity problems, and capacitance combinations. These units form the backbone of the exam.
Modern Physics (Easy Marks): Units like Dual Nature, Atoms, Nuclei, and Electronic Devices are generally more scoring and conceptual. They require less intensive numerical calculation.
Strategy for MCQs and Time Management
Since you need to attempt 50 questions in only 60 minutes, speed and accuracy are important.
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Mock Tests: Attempt at least 15-20 full-length CUET Physics Mock Tests. This will simulate the CBT environment and help you identify your weak areas and improve your speed.
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Question Selection: Practice the art of selecting the 50 questions you can solve quickly and accurately. Skip lengthy numerical problems initially and return to them later if time permits.
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Negative Marking: Always calculate the risk-reward ratio. Only attempt a question if you can eliminate at least two of the four options.
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