Common University Entrance Test Postgraduate Eligibility Criteria
Common University Entrance Test Postgraduate Eligibility Criteria
The Common University Entrance Test for Postgraduate (CUET PG) eligibility criteria are laid down by the National Testing Agency (NTA). However, final admission to postgraduate programs depends on the eligibility rules of individual participating universities.
CUET PG acts as a single-window entrance examination for PG admissions across central, state, deemed, and private universities. Candidates must satisfy both NTA guidelines and course-specific university requirements.
Table of Contents
CUET PG Eligibility Highlights
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Common University Entrance Test – Postgraduate (CUET PG) |
| Conducting Authority | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Minimum Qualification | Bachelor’s Degree or Equivalent |
| Final-Year Students | Eligible (Provisional Admission) |
| Minimum Marks | 50%–55% (General), 45%–50% (Reserved Categories) |
| Age Limit | No Upper Age Limit |
| Number of Attempts | Unlimited |
| Maximum Test Papers | Up to 4 Papers per Application |
Educational Qualification Requirements
To be eligible for CUET PG, candidates must meet the basic academic requirements prescribed by participating universities.
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Qualifying Degree | Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline from a recognized university |
| Final-Year Students | Allowed to apply provisionally (2026 appearing candidates) |
| Minimum Marks |
General: 50%–55% aggregate SC/ST/OBC/PwD/EWS: 45%–50% aggregate |
Age Limit and Number of Attempts
- No upper age limit is prescribed by NTA for CUET PG.
- Candidates can appear for the examination any number of times.
Important: Some universities may impose age criteria for specific professional or technical postgraduate programs.
Nationality Eligibility
CUET PG is open to Indian citizens as well as certain international categories, subject to institutional approval.
- Indian citizens
- Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan
- Tibetan refugees settled in India before January 1, 1962
- Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI)
- Foreign nationals permanently migrated from specified countries
Subject-Specific and Programme Eligibility
Apart from general eligibility, candidates must satisfy course-specific requirements laid down by universities.
- Relevant subjects must have been studied during graduation where required.
- Candidates can choose up to four test papers in a single CUET PG application.
- Meeting programme eligibility is mandatory even after qualifying CUET PG.
FAQs on CUET PG Eligibility Criteria
Q1: Who is eligible to apply for the CUET PG examination for postgraduate admissions in India?
Candidates holding a recognized bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline are eligible. Final-year students can apply provisionally. Final admission depends on meeting university-specific eligibility criteria.
Q2: What minimum graduation marks are required to be eligible for CUET PG?
NTA does not prescribe a fixed minimum percentage. Most universities require 50%–55% for General category candidates. Reserved category candidates receive relaxation as per norms.
Q3: Is there any age limit for appearing in the CUET PG examination?
There is no upper age limit prescribed by NTA. Candidates of any age can appear for the exam. Some universities may apply age criteria for specific programs.
Q4: Can final-year undergraduate students apply for CUET PG admissions?
Yes, final-year students appearing in 2026 can apply provisionally. Proof of qualification must be submitted during admission. Non-compliance can lead to cancellation of admission.
Q5: Are foreign nationals and OCI candidates eligible for CUET PG admissions?
Yes, OCI, PIO, and select foreign nationals are eligible. Admission is subject to university approval. Additional documentation may be required.
Q6: How many test papers can a candidate select in one CUET PG application?
Candidates can select up to four test papers. This allows applying for multiple postgraduate programs. Course eligibility must be checked for each paper.
Q7: Does qualifying CUET PG guarantee admission to a university?
No, qualifying CUET PG does not guarantee admission. Admission depends on cutoffs, eligibility, and seat availability. University-level selection criteria also apply.