The CUET UG exam has quickly become the most critical entry point for undergraduate admissions across top Indian central universities like Delhi University, BHU, and Jamia Millia Islamia. With over 15 lakh applicants in 2024, the competition is expected to remain intense in 2025. If you’re wondering how to crack CUET UG 2025, the key lies in focusing your preparation smartly—mastering the NCERT syllabus, building conceptual clarity, and following a disciplined time management strategy.
This guide walks you through a practical plan that blends smart learning, consistent practice, and expert-tested methods to ace CUET UG this year.
Understand the CUET UG 2025 Exam Pattern
Before jumping into prep mode, it’s important to know the structure of the exam. The CUET UG 2025 is divided into three key sections:
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Section I – Language Test (13 languages available)
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Section II – Domain Subjects (Choose up to 6 subjects)
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Section III – General Test (Optional, for selected courses)
All questions are MCQ-based, and the paper is conducted online (CBT). Each section has a specific duration, and negative marking applies. So smart answering is just as important as knowing the content.
NCERT Books Are Your Foundation
The most successful CUET UG toppers in 2023 and 2024 credit their success to NCERT books, especially for Domain Subjects and General Awareness. Here’s how to use them smartly:
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Class 11 & 12 NCERTs: For subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, Economics, Political Science, and Business Studies.
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Stick to NCERT terminology: CUET questions are often directly lifted or twisted from NCERT examples or lines.
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Underline important facts and formulas while reading.
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Solve all end-of-chapter exercises to boost conceptual clarity.
Whether you’re preparing for History or Accountancy, starting with NCERT ensures your basics are strong and aligned with NTA’s question patterns.
Create a Time-Boxed Study Schedule
Time planning can make or break your CUET UG performance. You must cover both school board syllabus and CUET preparation, so here’s an ideal weekly format for aspirants:
| Days | Focus Area | Hours Suggested |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | NCERT Domain Subject + Language Test | 3–4 hrs |
| Tuesday | NCERT Domain Subject + Mock Practice | 4 hrs |
| Wednesday | General Test + Reasoning Practice | 3 hrs |
| Thursday | NCERT + Topic Revision | 4 hrs |
| Friday | Full-Length CUET Mock Test | 2 hrs |
| Saturday | Analysis + Weak Topic Revision | 3 hrs |
| Sunday | Flex Day / Relax + Reading Habit | Flexible |
Following such a time-block schedule helps prevent burnout and keeps the preparation consistent.
Prioritize Strong Domain Subjects
While you can pick up to six domain subjects, it’s best to focus on your strongest 3–4. Select those which overlap with your Class 12 board subjects to maximize efficiency.
Example:
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Commerce students can pick Business Studies, Accountancy, Economics.
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Humanities students can go with History, Political Science, Sociology.
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Science stream aspirants can pick Physics, Chemistry, Maths/Biology.
Mastering your domain subjects gives you the highest score boost because each question carries equal weight.
Regular Mock Tests and PYQs
If you’re serious about how to crack CUET UG 2025, practicing previous year papers and taking full-length mocks is non-negotiable. Here’s why:
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Improves speed and accuracy under real-time pressure.
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Helps understand question formats, particularly tricky MCQs.
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Identifies weak topics you tend to skip or answer incorrectly.
Aim to take at least 2 mock tests per week, and analyze them thoroughly to revise your approach. Platforms like NTA CUET Samarth and SATHEE (by IIT Kanpur) offer free sample papers and modules.
Daily Reading for Language Paper
Section I tests your proficiency in English or any chosen language. To improve:
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Read editorials from The Hindu or Indian Express daily.
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Practice comprehension-based questions and synonyms/antonyms.
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Work on grammar through NCERT English books (Class 9–12).
This habit also helps boost your General Awareness, which is useful in Section III.
FAQs
Is NCERT enough to crack CUET UG 2025?
Yes, NCERT textbooks form the base for most CUET UG questions, especially in domain subjects. You may supplement them with practice guides and mock tests.
Can I skip the General Test in CUET UG 2025?
You can skip Section III if the courses you’re applying for don’t require it. Always check the specific university/course requirement before deciding.
How many subjects should I choose for domain papers?
You can choose up to six, but ideally stick to 3–4 strong subjects to maximize scoring potential.
What is the negative marking policy in CUET UG 2025?
Each incorrect answer carries a penalty of -1, so it’s better to leave doubtful questions rather than guess.
How early should I start CUET preparation?
Ideally, start in Class 12 Term 1, balancing board studies and CUET. A 6-month consistent plan is enough for strong performers.
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