The **Common University Entrance Test for Postgraduate courses (CUET PG) 2026** is expected to release its official notification very soon. Students looking to join postgraduate courses in various universities across India should look for this update in **December**. The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts this exam. This year, more than **200 universities** are likely to use CUET PG 2026 scores for admissions to their PG programs.
This means students can take one single exam to apply to many different universities. This includes central, state, deemed, and private institutions. Last year, for the 2025 academic cycle, over **190 universities** accepted CUET PG scores. This shows the growing importance of this exam for postgraduate admissions.
Many Universities Will Accept CUET PG Scores
The number of universities joining CUET PG for 2026 is expected to be similar to last year, or even higher. Some new state universities might join the list this time. Below is a breakdown of universities that accepted CUET PG scores in 2025:
| Type of University | Number (2025) |
| Private Universities | 80 |
| Central Universities | 53 |
| State Universities | 42 |
| Deemed Universities | 15 |
| International University | 1 |
| Total Universities | 191+ |
Central Universities Continue Participation
Most central universities that used CUET PG scores before are expected to do so again for 2026. These are some of the well-known central universities:
- **University of Delhi (DU)**
- **Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)**
- **Banaras Hindu University (BHU)**
- **University of Hyderabad (HCU)**
- **Jamia Millia Islamia (for specific courses)**
- **Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)**
- **Pondicherry University**
- **North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU)**
- **Tezpur University**
- **Sikkim University**
Each of these universities will share their detailed admission rules and guidelines. This will happen after the NTA announces the full CUET PG 2026 exam schedule and other important dates.
More State Universities Expected to Join
A growing number of state universities are showing interest in using CUET PG scores for their postgraduate courses. This change helps in having a common, fair admission process across different states. Last year, many state universities were part of CUET PG. Some examples include:
- **Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology (MAKAUT)**
- **Kumaun University**
- **Mahatma Gandhi University**
- **Himachal Pradesh University**
- **BR Ambedkar Bihar University**
This number is likely to go up. More states want to make admissions easier and based on merit, using a single national-level test like CUET PG.
Deemed and Private Universities Also Onboard
Many deemed-to-be universities and private universities will also likely continue to accept CUET PG scores. They use these scores for admissions to specific postgraduate programs. These programs often include:
- **Management**
- **Humanities and Social Sciences**
- **Sciences**
- **Education**
- **Computer Applications**
These institutions will usually announce their specific course admission details shortly after the NTA releases the full **CUET PG Information Bulletin**.
Official List and Next Steps for Students
The confirmed and final list of all universities that will accept CUET PG 2026 scores will be available on the official website: **pgcuet.samarth.ac.in**. Students must check this website once the NTA publishes the 2026 exam information brochure.
It is important for students to visit the official websites of their chosen universities. They must verify the specific eligibility criteria and course requirements for the programs they wish to apply for. This should be done before filling out the CUET PG application form. Staying updated with official announcements will help students plan their postgraduate admissions smoothly.
