CUET UG Eligibility Criteria: Understanding The Requirements For Every Student

Explore the CUET UG eligibility criteria for 2024, including academic qualifications, stream-specific requirements, and category-based relaxations.

In our previous article, we explored how the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) is a transformative gateway to premier universities and diverse career paths.

Now, let’s delve into a crucial aspect for aspiring candidates: the eligibility criteria for CUET UG. Understanding who can apply, and whether the criteria vary based on a student’s category, academic stream, or course selection, is essential for a smooth application process.

General Eligibility for CUET UG

1. Academic Qualification

Students must have completed their Class 12th or equivalent examination from a recognized board (CBSE, ICSE, or State Boards).

For students appearing in their Class 12th final exams, provisional eligibility is granted, provided they meet the course-specific requirements upon result declaration.

2. Minimum Percentage Requirements

Unlike certain exams that demand uniformly high scores, CUET UG allows flexibility based on the specific university and course. While some institutions may require a minimum of 50%-60% marks, others may accept lower percentages.

3. Age Limit

CUET UG does not enforce any upper age limit for candidates. However, individual universities may specify age-related criteria for certain programs (e.g., B.Ed.).

Stream-Specific Requirements

CUET UG caters to a vast range of disciplines, from Sciences and Commerce to Humanities. Eligibility may vary slightly based on the stream and intended course:

For Science Students:

Courses like B.Sc. (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, etc.) often require candidates to have studied specific subjects in Class 12th. For example, Physics and Mathematics may be mandatory for engineering-related programs, while Biology is essential for life sciences.

Certain courses may also specify a minimum percentage in core subjects, such as 50% in Mathematics or Biology.

For Humanities And Arts Students:

Humanities students enjoy the widest range of options, including Political Science, Sociology, English Literature, Psychology, and Journalism.

For these courses, most universities look for Class 12th completion with a passing percentage, while a few prestigious programs may require specific subject combinations or higher aggregate marks (55% or above).

For Commerce Students:

Programs like BBA, B.Com, or Economics (Hons.) often require Mathematics or Accounts as part of the 12th curriculum. Some universities also look for a combination of subjects like Business Studies, Economics, or Statistics.

Typically, Commerce programs require a minimum of 50%-55% aggregate marks, depending on the university.

Category-Based Relaxations

CUET UG follows the reservation policy mandated by the Government of India, ensuring fair representation for students from all backgrounds.

Here are the relaxations provided based on categories:

Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC):

These students typically enjoy a 5% relaxation in the minimum percentage requirement compared to general category students.

Reserved seats are also available in participating universities as per their institutional policies.

Economically Weaker Sections (EWS):

EWS students benefit from a 10% reservation in most Central Universities participating in CUET.

Persons with Disabilities (PwD):

Additional provisions, including extended exam time and seat reservations, are offered to PwD candidates.

Course-Specific Variations

While CUET UG is a centralized exam, specific universities and courses may impose additional requirements. For example:

Delhi University: Certain courses like B.Com (Hons.) and Economics (Hons.) require candidates to have studied Mathematics in Class 12th, irrespective of their stream.

Banaras Hindu University (BHU): Some professional courses may require higher aggregate marks or specific subject combinations.

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU): Language programs often prioritize candidates who studied relevant foreign or Indian languages in school.

Is the Eligibility Same for All Categories and Streams?

The short answer is no. While CUET offers a broad eligibility framework, the nuances—such as stream requirements, category-based relaxations, and course-specific conditions—make it essential for students to carefully review the requirements of their chosen universities and programs.

Why Understanding Eligibility Matters

CUET UG’s eligibility criteria may seem straightforward, but failing to meet even a minor requirement can disqualify a candidate from securing admission to their dream university. Here are a few tips:

Research University-Specific Guidelines: Always check the participating universities’ official CUET prospectus for additional eligibility requirements.

Streamline Subject Selection: Ensure that your Class 12th subjects align with the requirements of your intended course.

Keep Documents Ready: Be prepared with proof of category (if applicable), Class 12th marksheets, and other relevant certificates during the application process.

Eligibility for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) is designed to accommodate the aspirations of students from all streams and categories, ensuring equal access to quality education.

While the overarching criteria are straightforward, students must remain vigilant about specific requirements for their chosen courses and universities.

CUET stands as a gateway for students to achieve their educational goals, but understanding and meeting the eligibility conditions is the first step toward realizing those ambitions.

CUET UG Eligibility Criteria: Understanding The Requirements For Every Student

General Eligibility for CUET UG