Strategy to ace CUET 2025

The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) 2025 is set to bring major changes that will impact students' preparation strategies. With an increasing number of universities relying on CUET scores, competition is getting tougher, and staying updated on the latest exam trends is crucial. So, let's break down the confirmed changes, what they mean for aspirants, and how to prepare with the CUET mock test papers effectively.

Advertisement

What’s changing?

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially announced key modifications to CUET 2025. Here's what you need to know:

n Computer-based test (CBT) mode only

CUET 2025 will be conducted exclusively in computer-based test (CBT) mode, eliminating any offline or hybrid options. So practicing with the online CUET 2025 mock tests is essential to get comfortable with the format.

n Reduction in subject choices

The number of subjects has been reduced from 63 to 37, including 13 languages and 23 domain-specific subjects. Certain subjects like Entrepreneurship, Teaching Aptitude, Fashion Studies, Tourism, Legal Studies and Engineering Graphics have been removed. Admissions for these courses will now rely on the General Aptitude Test (GAT).

More Flexibility in Subject Selection

Unlike previous years, candidates now have the flexibility to choose subjects beyond their Class XII curriculum, making it easier to explore diverse university programmes. This means you can switch your subject stream if needed.

However, proceed with caution; some universities may require you to have studied a specific subject in Class XII for admission. Always check individual university requirements before finalising your subject choices.

Limit on subject selection

Students can now select up to five subjects, whereas the previous limit was six. This

makes strategic subject selection crucial. Choosing subjects that align with your desired university's admission criteria is essential, as some institutions may have specific subject requirements.

Standardised exam duration

Each subject test will now have a uniform duration of 60 minutes, ensuring consistency across all subjects. This change demands better time management skills, as every subject must be completed within the same timeframe, regardless of complexity.

All questions are now compulsory

There are no more optional questions in CUET 2025. Every question must be attempted, making comprehensive preparation more important than ever. Selective studying is no longer an option; students must ensure they cover the entire syllabus for each subject.

No more score normalisation

With the shift to a single-session exam per subject, the previous normalization process has been discontinued. Raw scores will now directly determine admissions. This makes accuracy even more critical, as there will be no adjustments to account for varying difficulty levels across exam sessions.

How to prepare for exam

Get familiar with the CBT format

Since CUET is now entirely computer-based, practicing in a digital format is crucial. Attempting the CUET 2025 mock test online can help you build comfort with the exam interface and time constraints. Additionally, practice using on-screen calculators and navigation tools to avoid confusion on exam day.

Choose your subjects wisely

With fewer subjects allowed, strategic selection is key. Choose subjects that align with your strengths and your desired university programs. Also, check university-specific requirements, as some institutions may only accept applicants with certain subject combinations.

Use updated study materials

Make sure your CUET books reflect the latest exam pattern. Relying on outdated books could lead to studying irrelevant topics. Refer to official syllabus guidelines and sample papers released by NTA to ensure accuracy in preparation.

Practice with Mock Test Papers

Mock tests are essential for success. Attempting CUET 2025 mock test papers will help you:

• Understand question trends
• Improve time management
• Identify weak areas
• Boost confidence before the actual exam Using updated mock tests, like those offered by Oswaal Books, can be particularly helpful in simulating the latest exam pattern and question types. Regularly analyzing your mistakes and revising weak concepts will further enhance your preparation.

Develop speed and accuracy

With all questions now compulsory, students need to focus on answering quickly and accurately. Setting time limits while solving practice papers can enhance efficiency. Avoid getting stuck on difficult questions, mark them for review and move on to maximise your score.

Revise consistently

A structured revision plan is crucial. Allocate time for:

• Revisiting challenging topics weekly
• Attempting at least one full-length mock test every week
• Reviewing key formulas, shortcuts, and strategies