The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the final answer key for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET UG) 2026, bringing lakhs of candidates one step closer to the declaration of results and the start of the university admission process.Candidates who have appeared for the exam can now access the final answer key through the official CUET portal. The release follows the review of objections submitted by students against the provisional answer key. After reviewing the challenges, the agency dropped seven questions from the final answer key.The move comes after one of the biggest high school entrance exams in the country concluded earlier this month. CUET UG 2026 was conducted between May 11 and June 7 in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode at various centers across the country.
Seven questions removed after review
The final answer key was prepared after the experts reviewed the objections raised by the candidates. The provisional answer key was released on June 9, while students were allowed to submit challenges till June 11.After the evaluation process, NTA decided to remove seven questions from the exam. The answer key released now is final, and candidates will not be allowed to raise any further objections. No marks were awarded for questions left unanswered by candidates.
Massive participation across the country
CUET UG 2026 witnessed participation on a massive scale. According to NTA data, 15,68,866 candidates registered for the exam.The majority of students opted for the maximum number of subjects allowed under the revised exam structure. As many as 8,69,959 candidates registered for five subjects, while 3,63,096 chose four subjects. Another 2,93,660 candidates applied for three subjects, 31,011 chose two subjects, and 11,140 registered for only one subject.The exam generated nearly 67.56 lakh test cases and was conducted over 35 rounds.
Revised exam structure
This year’s CUET UG was held in 37 subjects, including 13 languages, 23 domain-specific subjects and a General Aptitude Test.Under the revised model, students were allowed to choose a maximum of five subjects, including language papers and the aptitude test. Each paper consisted of 50 compulsory questions and lasted 60 minutes.The exam was conducted entirely in CBT mode.
The city’s allocation data highlights a smooth conduct
NTA data also indicates a high level of applicant satisfaction with city allocations. About 96.6 percent of applicants received one of their preferred exam cities, while nearly 79 percent were assigned their first choice city.The figures reflect efforts to streamline logistics for candidates appearing in one of India’s biggest entrance exams.
CUET UG 2026 Final Answer : Steps to download
Candidates can download CUET UG 2026 final answer key by following these steps:
- Visit the official website of CUET, cuet.nta.nic.in.
- Click on the “CUET UG Final Answer Key 2026” link on the home page.
- Enter the application number and password or date of birth.
- Send the details.
- View, download and save the answer key for future reference.
The admission process begins at university level
With the final answer key now available, the focus will shift to the declaration of results and the admission process.Unlike a centralized counseling system, admissions through CUET are conducted separately by participating universities. Each institution prepares its own merit list and follows its own eligibility criteria and admission rules.Candidates are therefore advised to closely monitor the websites of universities and colleges where they intend to seek admission. The final CUET score will serve as the basis for admissions, but cut-offs and selection procedures will vary from one institution to another.The release of the final answer key marks a crucial milestone in the CUET UG 2026 cycle, paving the way for the next phase of high school admissions across the country.
