Is General Test Compulsory for CUET 2026? CUET 2026 registration will begin soon and many students are already planning their subject choices. One common doubt is whether the General Test (CUET GAT) is compulsory. The simple answer is no it is not mandatory for all students. You only need to take it if your target university or course requires it. Still, some students choose it to keep more admission options open.
Before applying for the CUET 2026 it is important to understand the basic details of the exam. Below is an overview of CUET Exam 2026:
CUET Exam 2026 Overview |
|
Feature |
Details |
Full Name |
Common University Entrance Test (Undergraduate) 2026 |
Conducting Body |
National Testing Agency (NTA) |
Purpose |
Single entrance test for admission to multiple universities in India |
Exam Level |
National Level |
Mode of Exam |
Computer-Based Test (Online) |
Subjects Offered |
37 test papers (Languages, Domain Subjects, General Test) |
Question Type |
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
Marking Scheme |
+5 for correct answer, -1 for incorrect answer |
Languages Available |
13 languages (English, Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, etc.) |
Tentative Exam Dates |
May 2026 |
Official Website |
The General Test (also called CUET GAT) is a paper that checks a student’s overall aptitude and knowledge. It is different from subject-specific tests. The General Test usually includes: General Knowledge, Current Affairs, Logical and Analytical Reasoning, and Basic Numerical Ability
No, it is not compulsory for all students. You should take it only if:
Your university requires it for the course you are applying for.
Your preferred subject is not available in CUET’s subject list, and the General Test is accepted as an alternative.
You want to keep your course options open for universities that consider General Test scores.
Here are some important things to remember about the CUET 2026 General Test. These points will help you decide if you should take it or not.
Optional Paper: Only mandatory if your course or college demands it.
University-Specific: Some central universities require it for vocational or professional courses.
Keeps Options Open: Even if not required, taking it may give you more choices later.
Check Before You Apply: Always review your target university’s official admission criteria.
Here is the CUET General Test Exam Pattern 2026 for CUET 2026. It will help you understand how the questions are set and how marks are given.
CUET General Test Exam Pattern 2026 |
|
Feature |
Details |
Mode of Exam |
Computer-Based Test (Online) |
Number of Questions |
50 (all compulsory) |
Question Type |
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
Marking Scheme |
+5 for correct answer, -1 for incorrect answer |
Languages Available |
13 languages, including English, Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, etc. |
General Knowledge, Current Affairs, Logical Reasoning, Numerical Ability |
Good preparation can make the CUET 2026 General Test much easier to crack. Follow these tips to study smart and score well on the exam.
Know the Syllabus: Focus on General Knowledge, Current Affairs, Reasoning, and Basic Maths.
Read News Daily: Keep up with national and international events.
Practice Reasoning Questions: Solve puzzles, seating arrangements, and coding-decoding problems.
Revise Class 10 Maths: Topics like percentages, ratios, and averages are common.
Take Mock Tests: Practice with CUET General Test sample papers to improve speed and accuracy.
Physics Wallah provides CUET UG Online Coaching with live classes, study materials, and practice tests. The courses are designed to make learning simple and effective, helping you prepare for your CUET UG exams with ease.