CUET PG 2026 begins tomorrow: NTA issues strict exam-day guidelines on verification, documents and prohibited items

The postgraduate admission season for central and participating universities is set to begin as the Common University Entrance Test for Postgraduate courses (CUET PG) 2026 starts on Thursday, March 6, 2026. Conducted by the National Testing Agency, the nationwide examination will run until March 27 in computer-based mode at designated centres across the country.

On a day before the examination, the testing agency issued a detailed advisory outlining crucial instructions for candidates, including reporting procedures, biometric verification requirements, mandatory documents and a list of prohibited items inside the examination halls.

The advisory comes as lakhs of candidates prepare to appear for the postgraduate entrance examination, which has become a key gateway for admissions to central universities and several other participating institutions.

Candidates asked to check admit card details carefully

In its official communication, the NTA urged candidates to carefully verify the details mentioned on their admit cards, including the exam date, shift timing, subject and location of the test centre.

“The National Testing Agency is conducting the Common University Entrance Test CUET (PG) – 2026 between 06 March 2026 and 27 March 2026. We hope that you have downloaded the Admit Card and are now fully prepared to appear for the CUET PG 2026 examination on the date, shift, course and venue of the Test Centre as indicated on the Admit Card,” the agency said.

Candidates have also been advised to check important logistical details such as reporting time and gate closing time mentioned on the admit card. According to the notice, candidates must reach the examination venue well in advance to complete mandatory verification procedures.

To avoid last-minute confusion, the agency has recommended that students visit their examination centre at least a day before the test.

The advisory is particularly significant for candidates with disabilities. Persons with Disabilities (PwD/PwBD) have been encouraged to inspect the test centre beforehand and immediately inform the NTA if they encounter any accessibility-related issues.

Extra verification for non-Aadhaar candidates

The NTA has also clarified that candidates who did not register using Aadhaar or selected alternative identity verification methods during the application process will need to report earlier than usual.

Such candidates must reach the examination centre at least one hour before the gate closing time to complete additional verification procedures.

Officials said biometric authentication and identity verification will be conducted before entry into the examination hall. Candidates must therefore allow sufficient time to complete the process without delay.

Mandatory documents for exam entry

Candidates appearing for the exam will be required to carry specific documents for verification at the test centre. Entry will not be permitted without these documents.

The mandatory items include:

• A printed copy of the CUET PG 2026 admit card, preferably a clear colour printout on A4 paper
• Two passport-size photographs, one of which will be used for the attendance sheet
• A valid original government-issued photo identification

Accepted ID proofs include PAN card, driving licence, voter ID, passport, Aadhaar card with photograph, e-Aadhaar, ration card, or an Aadhaar enrolment number with photo.

The NTA has made it clear that photocopies, scanned copies stored on mobile phones, or digitally attested identity documents will not be accepted for verification.

Candidates whose Aadhaar authentication did not match during the application process must ensure they carry a valid ID proof and arrive early to complete verification procedures. The agency has also advised candidates to ensure their Aadhaar biometric authentication is not locked on the day of the examination.

Strict ban on electronic devices

The agency has reiterated that electronic gadgets and personal belongings will not be allowed inside the examination centres.

Items such as mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, Bluetooth devices and other electronic accessories are strictly prohibited. Candidates have been warned that examination authorities will not be responsible for the safekeeping of personal items.

However, certain relaxations have been made for diabetic candidates. They will be allowed to carry sugar tablets or fruits such as bananas, apples and oranges, along with a transparent water bottle. Packed food items, including chocolates and sandwiches, will not be permitted.

Centres under CCTV surveillance

The NTA has also issued a stern warning against malpractice during the examination. According to the notice, all centres will remain under live CCTV surveillance and are equipped with signal jammers to prevent any attempt at cheating.

Candidates advised to familiarise themselves with test interface

Since the examination will be conducted in computer-based mode, candidates have also been advised to familiarise themselves with the digital test interface beforehand.

On the day of the examination, students must ensure that the subject and medium displayed on the computer screen match the details printed on their admit card.

Officials stressed that candidates arriving after the gate closing time will not be allowed entry under any circumstances.

With the first phase of the exam beginning Thursday, the NTA has urged candidates to remain calm, follow the guidelines carefully and report to their centres on time to avoid disruptions on the exam day.

Candidates can click on the link provided here to download the CUET PG exam-day guidelines.
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