By: JSM Study Circle Faculty | Source: NTA CUET Official | Last updated: September 2026
Introduction
CUET (Common University Entrance Test) is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to undergraduate programs in central universities and participating institutions. Every year, thousands of students in Delhi NCR — including those from Budh Vihar and Rohini — appear for CUET. A strategic approach to CUET preparation can significantly improve your chances of securing a seat in your preferred university.
Step 1: Understand the CUET Exam Structure
Before you start studying, understand the exam format:
- Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Subjects: Choose up to 5 from 37 (13 languages + 23 domain + 1 GT)
- Questions: 50 per paper, all compulsory
- Duration: 60 minutes per paper
- Marking: +5 for correct, −1 for incorrect
- Domain syllabus: Based on NCERT Class 11 & 12
Step 2: Choose Your CUET Subjects Strategically
You can choose up to 5 subjects. The recommended combination:
- English (Core) — Required by most universities
- General Aptitude Test (GT) — For GK, reasoning, and current affairs
- 3 Domain Subjects — Based on your Class 12 stream
For Commerce (Class 12): Accountancy, Business Studies, Economics + English + GT
For Science (PCM): Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics + English + GT
For Science (PCB): Physics, Chemistry, Biology + English + GT
For Humanities: Political Science, History, Economics + English + GT
See full subject selection guide →
Step 3: Build Your CUET Study Plan
Here's a 6-month CUET study plan for Class 12 students:
Months 1-2: Foundation
- Complete NCERT revision for domain subjects
- Start daily current affairs (newspaper reading)
- Begin vocabulary building for English (15 words/day)
- Take 1 diagnostic mock test to assess baseline
Months 3-4: Practice
- Start section practice (English, GT, domain)
- Take 1-2 sectional tests per week
- Continue current affairs compilation
- Begin CBT interface practice
Months 5-6: Intensive Preparation
- Take 2-3 full-length mocks per week
- Analyze each test thoroughly
- Work on weak areas with targeted practice
- Final formula and note revision
Step 4: Use the Right Study Material
Stick to quality resources:
- Domain subjects: NCERT Class 11/12 textbooks (most important)
- English: NCERT English readers + word lists
- General Test: Manorama Yearbook, Lucent GK, newspaper editorials
- Practice: NTA official sample papers (free at cuet.nta.nic.in)
Step 5: Master Time Management
With 50 questions in 60 minutes, you get ~72 seconds per question. Key tips:
- Solve easy questions first
- Skip difficult questions and return later
- Don't attempt questions with negative marking unless confident
- Keep 5-10 minutes for review
- Practice CBT format regularly
Step 6: Take and Analyze Mock Tests
Mock tests are the backbone of CUET preparation:
- Take at least 15-20 full-length mocks
- Always analyze your performance after each test
- Track your score improvement over time
- Maintain an error log for weak topics
Step 7: Avoid Common CUET Mistakes
- Ignoring NCERT: CUET domain is NCERT-based — don't skip it
- Only studying one subject: Balance time across all chosen subjects
- Over-attempting: Negative marking hurts scores if you guess blindly
- Not practicing CBT: Many students are unfamiliar with computer-based format
- Cramming current affairs: Start monthly compilations from the beginning
- Last-minute prep: Don't try to cover everything in the final month
Conclusion
CUET preparation is a marathon, not a sprint. By following a structured plan, using NCERT as your foundation, practicing regularly with mocks, and seeking guidance when needed, you can achieve your target score. Students in Budh Vihar, Rohini, and the wider Delhi NCR area can benefit from local coaching that understands the local context and university preferences.
Remember: Always verify the latest dates, exam pattern changes, and eligibility criteria on the official NTA website at cuet.nta.nic.in before making any preparation decisions.