The Common University Entrance Test (CUET-UG) 2026 application process has received a fresh boost as the National Testing Agency (NTA) officially announced the reopening of the online application portal. The decision comes after multiple representations from aspirants requesting an extension of the last date for submission of application forms and payment of fees.
The public notice, issued on 23 February 2026, confirms that candidates who missed the earlier deadline now have another opportunity to complete their registration for CUET UG 2026.
CUET UG 2026: Key Highlights
- Exam Name: Common University Entrance Test (CUET-UG) 2026
- Conducting Authority: National Testing Agency (NTA)
- Exam Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Exam Dates (Tentative): 11 May to 31 May 2026
- Application Reopen Dates: 23 February 2026 (Afternoon) to 26 February 2026 (11:50 PM)
- Official Websites: https://nta.ac.in | https://cuet.nta.nic.in
Why Was the CUET 2026 Application Portal Reopened?
The CUET UG 2026 application process was initially open from 03 January 2026 to 30 January 2026, with the last date for fee payment being 31 January 2026 (up to 11:50 PM).
Later, the deadline was extended up to 04 February 2026, and the fee payment window remained open until 07 February 2026.
Despite the extension, the NTA received several requests from candidates seeking additional time to complete their applications. Considering these representations and to facilitate aspiring students, the NTA has now decided to reopen the application submission and fee payment window for a limited period.
New CUET UG 2026 Application Dates
As per the official notice:
- Reopening Date: 23 February 2026 (Afternoon)
- Closing Date: 26 February 2026 (Up to 11:50 PM)**
Candidates must ensure they complete both the application submission and fee payment within this window. No further extension is likely after this special reopening period.
Important Advisory for Candidates
The NTA has clearly stated that this is a special extended period, and therefore:
- Candidates must ensure that all details entered during registration are accurate and complete.
- No correction facility will be provided after submission of the application form during this extended window.
- Applicants are strongly advised to double-check personal details, academic qualifications, category information, and exam centre preferences before final submission.
This is a crucial point for aspirants, as incorrect information may lead to complications during admit card issuance or counselling.
CUET UG 2026 Exam Overview
The CUET-UG 2026 will be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode across various cities in India and a few cities outside India.
CUET serves as a single-window entrance examination for admission to undergraduate programmes offered by central universities and several participating institutions across the country.
Over the past few years, CUET has become one of the most important national-level entrance exams, providing a common platform for students to secure admission to top universities.
How to Apply for CUET UG 2026 (Reopened Window)
Candidates can follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the official website – https://cuet.nta.nic.in
- Click on the CUET UG 2026 application link.
- Register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in personal, academic, and communication details carefully.
- Upload scanned photograph and signature as per specifications.
- Pay the application fee online through the available payment modes.
- Download and save the confirmation page for future reference.
Applicants should avoid waiting until the last day to prevent server-related issues.
Helpline and Support
For any queries or clarifications related to CUET UG 2026, candidates can contact:
- NTA Help Desk: 011-40759000
- Email: cuet-ug@nta.ac.in
Additionally, students are advised to regularly visit the official NTA websites for updates, corrigenda, and examination-related announcements.
Why This Extension Matters
The reopening of the CUET UG 2026 application portal offers a final opportunity for:
- Students who missed the previous deadline due to technical or personal reasons.
- Candidates who faced payment-related issues earlier.
- Aspirants who were waiting for clarifications regarding eligibility or subject combinations.
Given the growing competition for undergraduate admissions in central and participating universities, missing this opportunity could mean waiting another academic year.
Candidates must treat this as the last opportunity to apply for CUET UG 2026. Since no correction facility will be provided during this extended period, applicants should carefully verify every detail before submission.
With the examination scheduled tentatively between 11 May and 31 May 2026, aspirants should also begin or continue their preparation alongside completing the registration process.
For the latest updates, keep checking:
👉 https://nta.ac.in
👉 https://cuet.nta.nic.in
Stay connected for more updates on CUET 2026, admit cards, exam pattern, syllabus, and result announcements.
