Is CUET based on the CBSE syllabus? Syllabus Comparison 2026

The CUET is the most important exam for admission in an undergraduate course in any central, state, private, or deemed university. The CUET exam is largely based on the class 12 NCERT syllabus. This is because CUET uses NCERT books as a reference for domain-specific subjects. CUET aims to give equal opportunity to all the students from every board. NCERT books are considered national books and are referred to for all entrance exams.

Is CUET Based on the CBSE Syllabus

The CUET exam syllabus is not based on the CBSE syllabus; it is totally based on the NCERT textbook. The language section and general aptitude section do not follow the NCERT textbook or CBSE syllabus; only domain-specific subjects follow the NCERT textbook. You can use NCERT books as a basic foundation for the domain-specific subjects. The CUET does not cover the standard curriculum of the Class 12th syllabus. It overlaps with some topics from the 12th-class syllabus.

Overview of the CUET Syllabus

The Common University Entrance Test syllabus is designed to test the knowledge and understanding of the students about the domain-specific subject, language subject, and general aptitude. The CUET syllabus helps students from different boards to crack the exam. The CUET syllabus is divided into three major parts: language, Domain, and general aptitude test.

CUET Syllabus vs CBSE Syllabus

After the CUET, the admission process in any central and state university has been completely changed. The syllabus of the CUET is based on the NCERT, not the CBSE syllabus, because the CBSE focuses on school-level learning and builds your foundation, and the CUET evaluates and tests the students’ readiness for entry into undergraduate programs. The CUET requires more practice with the MCQs with better time management.

CBSE Syllabus

• Designed for school-level education
• Cover the wide range of topics across classes 11 and 12.
• Focus on the conceptual understanding of the topics, long and short answers.

CUET Syllabus

• Based on the NCERT class 12 textbooks.
• Focus on only class 12 concepts, not covered class 11 concepts.
• Designed the question application based on understanding.

Why Understanding the CUET Syllabus is Important

The CUET syllabus is structured to create a fair platform for students from across the board in India. The NCERT-based syllabus and balanced testing allow students from every board to perform better in the CUET exam.

• The syllabus helps the students with strategic preparation.
• You can easily identify the important topics and can shortlist preferred courses.
• Knowing the syllabus of the CUET helps to reduce confusion between the board exam and the CUET exam requirements.
• Try to focus your study based on the Class 12th NCERT.