The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the final answer key for the Common University Entrance Test Undergraduate (CUET UG) 2026, bringing lakhs of candidates a step closer to the declaration of results and the start of the university admission process.Candidates who appeared for the examination 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 examining the challenges, the agency has dropped seven questions from the final answer key.The move comes after one of the largest undergraduate entrance examinations in the country concluded earlier this month. CUET UG 2026 was conducted between May 11 and June 7 in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode across multiple centres nationwide.
Seven questions removed after review
The final answer key was prepared after experts reviewed objections raised by candidates. The provisional answer key had been published on June 9, while students were allowed to submit challenges until June 11.Following the evaluation process, NTA decided to remove seven questions from the examination. The answer key released now is final, and candidates will not be allowed to raise any further objections. No marks have been awarded for questions that candidates left unanswered.
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 examination.A majority of students opted for the maximum number of subjects permitted under the revised examination structure. As many as 8,69,959 candidates registered for five subjects, while 3,63,096 selected 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 examination generated nearly 67.56 lakh test instances and was conducted over 35 shifts.
Revised exam structure
This year’s CUET UG was held in 37 subjects, including 13 languages, 23 domain-specific subjects and one General Aptitude Test.Under the revised pattern, 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 carried a duration of 60 minutes.The examination was conducted entirely in CBT mode.
City allocation data highlights smooth conduct
NTA data also indicates a high level of candidate satisfaction with city allotments. Around 96.6 per cent of candidates received one of their preferred examination cities, while nearly 79 per cent were allotted their first-choice city.The figures reflect efforts to streamline logistics for candidates appearing in one of India’s largest entrance examinations.
CUET UG final answer key 2026 : Steps to download
Candidates can download the CUET UG 2026 final answer key by following these steps:
- Visit the official CUET website, cuet.nta.nic.in.
- Click on the “CUET UG Final Answer Key 2026” link on the homepage.
- Enter the application number and password or date of birth.
- Submit the details.
- View, download and save the answer key for future reference.
Admissions process to begin at university level
With the final answer key now available, attention will shift to the declaration of results and the admission process.Unlike a centralised counselling 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, clearing the way for the next phase of undergraduate admissions across the country.
