INDIA’S SECOND-LARGEST ENTRANCE EXAM IN TERMS OF STUDENT PARTICIPATION 

Let’s begin by gaining an understanding of what CUET entails!

The inception of the New Education Policy (NEP) in 2020 aimed to revolutionize the Indian education system. Among its outcomes, the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) emerged as a significant development. CUET, an acronym for the “Common University Entrance Test,” is administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA) within India. Its purpose is to facilitate admission to undergraduate programs at a variety of institutions, including central universities, state universities, and numerous esteemed private universities nationwide.

The underlying concept behind CUET, often articulated as “One India, One Exam,” seeks to provide all students, regardless of their backgrounds, with a uniform platform and equal opportunities. Most notably, it intends to alleviate the percentage-driven challenges that students typically encounter after their 12th-grade board exams. This exam is designed to evaluate a student’s comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. So, lets see CUET: Exam Pattern And Syllabus 2024

The significance of the Common University Entrance Test (CUET)

Equal Opportunity for Every Student: CUET: Exam Pattern And Syllabus 2024

Every student aspires to secure admission in their preferred university. However, the heavy reliance on 12th-grade marks often limits equal opportunities for admission to their desired colleges or universities. The CUET addresses this issue by providing all students with a fair chance to showcase their abilities through a common entrance test, allowing them to seek admission to the university of their choice based on their CUET scores. 

Preservation of 12th Standard Importance: CUET: Exam Pattern And Syllabus 2024

Some universities may be concerned that the introduction of a common entrance exam will diminish the importance of 12th-grade results. However, this is not necessarily the case. The NTA has aligned the CUET syllabus with the 12th-grade curriculum, and several universities, including the University of Delhi, still consider 12th-grade marks in tiebreaker scenarios, where students have equal CUET scores. This emphasizes the significance of 12th-grade results.

Elimination of Subjective Bias: CUET: Exam Pattern And Syllabus 2024

CUET’s significance lies in eliminating subjective bias. Previously, a student’s admission to a desired course and university could be affected by low marks in subjects unrelated to their chosen field. With CUET, students can focus on their domain subject, reducing the impact of other 12th-grade subjects. This ensures that students can pursue their area of interest with a fair opportunity.

Clarity in Rank:

In the past, students often lacked clarity regarding their ranks and standings among their peers due to merit-based admissions without specific rank disclosure. CUET provides each candidate with a detailed scorecard, eliminating ambiguity. This allows students to have a clear understanding of their ranks and the colleges they are eligible for, simplifying the admission process.

End to Cut-off Competition:

CUET, as a common entrance test, signals the end of the competitive cut-off system at some universities. Instead, universities will rely on CUET merit for admissions, prioritizing students’ aspirations and streamlining the college admission process.

Equal Opportunity for All:

One of the most compelling reasons for the importance of CUET is the promotion of equality. Traditionally, different universities had varying undergraduate admission processes, potentially favoring certain colleges. CUET aims to reduce these disparities and provide each university with a fair chance to admit students, leveling the playing field for all institutions.

General Description of CUET

Eligibility: Eligibility requirements can differ from one university to another. Typically, candidates who have successfully completed their 10+2 or equivalent examinations, meeting specific subject prerequisites, are eligible to apply for CUET.

Examination Format: CUET is conducted in a computer-based format (CBT) and comprises multiple-choice questions (MCQs). The number of questions, test duration, and scoring system may vary depending on the chosen subject.

Scheme of Examination – CUET: Exam Pattern And Syllabus 2024

The examination is divided into 3 sections 

Section 1

• Section 1A -Languages

There are 13 different languages. Any of These languages may be chosen. 40 questions to be attempted out of 50.

• Section 1B – Languages

There are 20 Languages. Any of these languages may be chosen.

Section 2 

Domain

There are 27 Domain-specific subjects being offered under this section. A candidate may choose any subject as desired by the applicable University/ Universities.  

35/40 Questions to be attempted out of 45/50.

Section 3 

General Test

For any such undergraduate program/programs being offered by Universities

where a General Test is being used for admission. 50 Questions to be attempted out of 60.

Note

• From the above subjects/languages, the candidate can choose a maximum of 10 subjects from all three Sections.
• Examination will be conducted on multiple days in three shifts, depending on the number of candidates and Subject choices

Syllabus of Test

• Language – Language to be tested through Reading Comprehension (based on different types of passages–Factual, Literary and Narrative, and Literary, Aptitude and Vocabulary.

• Domain Subject-As given on NTA website https://cuet.samarth.ac.in

• General Test-General Knowledge, Current Affairs, General Mental Ability,

Numerical Ability, Quantitative Reasoning (Simple application of basic mathematical concepts arithmetic/algebra geometry/mensuration/stat), Logical and Analytical Reasoning.

How student can comprehend CUET? 

Transitioning away from the blueprint model: In the school academic curriculum, students typically select topics for study based on a prioritization system that favors chapters with higher marks allocation. However, in the context of the Common University Entrance Test (CUET), a different approach is necessary. CUET mandates adherence to a comprehensive syllabus where every chapter carries equal weightage. Additionally, it’s crucial to engage in thorough reading of NCERT materials. In certain domain subjects like Economics and Mathematics, a portion of the Class XI syllabus is also deemed essential for a well-rounded preparation

Practicing MCQ ( multiple choice question ) Mode: All the assessments utilize multiple-choice question (MCQ) format. Students should practice MCQs while being mindful of potential penalties for incorrect answers due to negative marking. Proficiency in understanding concepts thoroughly is crucial for tackling MCQ-based examinations effectively.

Give equal respect to each subject: In the school’s academic curriculum, students primarily concentrate on the core subjects within their respective streams, often not dedicating substantial attention to subjects such as language (English). However, the current situation calls for allocating an equal amount of study time to these subjects

Considering the importance of the general test

Ninety percent of students preparing for the CUET tend to overlook its crucial component, which is the general test. This general test encompasses three primary sections: quantitative techniques, logical reasoning, and general knowledge, including current affairs. Incorporating proficiency in the general test, along with expertise in specific domains, opens up opportunities for students to qualify for various professional and integrated programs. Examples of such programs include the Bachelor of Management Studies (BMS), Bachelor of Business Economics (BBE), and five-year integrated journalism programs. It is advisable for students to allocate equal significance to the general test, as it, in conjunction with the language component, offers multiple avenues for academic and career prospects.

CUET General Test Requirements for Different Courses at the University of Delhi.

Advancement is unattainable without adaptation. As a student, it’s essential to welcome this transformation in the selection process for India’s esteemed institutions. Comprehensive learning and proper guidance are key to excelling in the CUET. CUET: Exam Pattern And Syllabus 2024

All the best!

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