CUET 2027 exam pattern to change: duration, questions, and subjects to be cut

Major changes are anticipated for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) 2027 exam pattern, following a high-level meeting today, 13 October 2026. The National Testing Agency (NTA), University Grants Commission (UGC), and the Ministry of Education have agreed upon a roadmap to simplify the CUET UG 2027 examination process.

These proposed reforms aim to save students’ time, reduce logistics costs, and minimise administrative friction. The changes include adjustments to the exam duration, the number of questions per subject, and the maximum number of subjects a student can choose, potentially affecting lakhs of aspirants.

Proposed “One Student, One Day” Model

A significant reform under consideration is deploying a “One Student, One Day” model for CUET UG 2027. This model proposes that students take all their chosen subject examinations on a single day. Previously, the CUET exam was conducted over an extended period, typically spanning 12 to 15 days, which often led to logistical challenges for students, including multiple commutes.

The shift to a single-day examination aims to smooth out the process and reduce the burden on candidates. While this would require students to demonstrate higher speed and precision due to tighter time constraints, it is expected to significantly reduce travel and accommodation costs tied to multi-day schedules.

Changes in Exam Duration and Question Count

The duration of the CUET exam per subject is also expected to be reduced. The proposed duration may be cut down to 40 to 45 minutes per subject, a reduction from the earlier 60 minutes. Concurrently, the number of questions per subject might be decreased to 35 to 40 questions, down from the previous 50 questions.

These adjustments are part of the broader effort to simplify the exam and manage the single-day schedule effectively. The revised format would necessitate a more focused approach from students, as each question would carry increased value due to the reduced overall count and tighter time limits.

Revised Subject Selection and Total Exam Time

Currently, students can choose up to five subjects out of 37 offered, which include 13 languages, 23 domain subjects, and one general aptitude test. Authorities are now considering limiting the maximum number of subjects chosen to four. This reduction in the number of permissible subjects is another measure to support the “One Student, One Day” model and manage the overall exam duration.

The table below illustrates the comparison between the earlier and proposed CUET exam parameters:

If the reform of four subjects with a 40-minute duration each is implemented, the total exam hours for a student would be 160 minutes (2 hours and 40 minutes). This is a reduction from the previous potential total of 200 minutes (3 hours and 20 minutes) for five subjects, each lasting 40 minutes.

Official Notifications Pending

As of today, October 13, 2026, no official notification has been released by the University Grants Commission (UGC) or the National Testing Agency (NTA) regarding the proposed changes to the CUET 2027 exam pattern. Despite a high-level meeting involving the NTA, UGC, and the Ministry of Education agreeing upon a roadmap for simplification, the final guidelines for the Common University Entrance Test are still in the drafting stage.

The UGC and NTA are anticipated to release official updates in the near future. These updates are expected to provide clear details on the exact nature and implementation of the proposed reforms, which include adjustments to exam duration, question count, and the “One Student, One Day” model for CUET UG 2027.

Further reading

• CUET 2027 law course admissions: UG registration in January, PG exams in March
• Delhi University SOL admission 2026 ends October 13: apply for UG, PG courses without CUET
• CUET application form: eligibility, dates and how to apply Next step
• CLAT 2027 application correction facility expected to open on November 2
• JEE Main application form: eligibility, dates and how to apply
• CUET: complete exam guide

Written by Nishit Kumar

Nishit Kumar is a senior EdTech industry leader with over a decade of experience in building and scaling education platforms, shaping their product, content, and growth strategy. At FindMyCollege, Nishit oversees content and editorial strategy, guiding topic selection and content frameworks to ensure accuracy, relevance, and student-first value across the website.

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