CUET Vs Other University Entrance Exams: Which Is Right for You? -

As students approach the end of their school life or Graduation, one big question on their minds is, “Which entrance exam should I prepare for?” With the introduction of the Common University Entrance Test (CUET), the higher education landscape in India has changed significantly. However, is CUET the best option for you? Or should you just examine other University entrance exams to specific universities like JNU, DU (pre-CUET), entrance tests like the IPU CET, Symbiosis SET, or private university entrance exams for Amity, Ashoka, Manipal, etc.?

Let’s investigate the differences of CUET, the advantages of it in comparison to other university tests, and its disadvantages to assist you in making the right decision for your future.

What is CUET? A New Era in College Admissions

The Common University Entrance Test (CUET), developed by the National Testing Agency (NTA), aims to centralise the admission process to the central and many state open universities rather than relying solely on Class 12 board marks for UG programs and a student’s UG marks for admission to any of the Postgraduate programs. CUET assesses students through a common test, giving a more equitable process.

Conducted in multiple phases
Divided into Language, Domain-specific subjects, and General Test
Accepted by 250+ universities, including Delhi University, BHU, JNU, and Jamia Millia Islamia

Other Popular University Entrance Exams in India, Except CUET

While CUET is growing in popularity, many top universities still conduct their own entrance tests. Each exam comes with its own syllabus, pattern, and eligibility. Some major ones include:

BITSAT – For BITS Pilani and other BITS campuses
JEE (Main & Advanced) – For Engineering colleges like IITs and NITs
NEET: The medical entrance exam for MBBS and BDS courses across India.
VITEEE: The entrance exam for Vellore Institute of Technology.
SMRJEE: For admissions in SRM Institute of Science and Technology.
IPU CET – For Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University colleges
SET – For Symbiosis universities
Christ University Entrance Test
Other State-Level exams: Like MHT-CET (Maharashtra), WBJEE (West Bengal), KCET (Karnataka), and more
Private University Exams – For universities like Shiv Nadar, Ashoka, Amity, Manipal

CUET Vs Other University Entrance Exams

Selecting the right entrance exam is the first step to take toward the college of your dreams. The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) is becoming a popular choice for students, and many are asking how it works compared to the normal entrance exams of individual universities. This article will examine the differences between CUET and entrance tests for other universities — exam format, preparation approach, university options, and competition.

Regardless of whether you’re seeking admission into a central university or a fancy private university, knowing the differences between these tests will help you make an informed and confident decision to reach your ultimate goal.

Exam Pattern and Structure: CUET and Other University Entrance Exams

CUET and other university entrance exams have a defined format and structure in place to help students. These exams generally have sections on language skills, general knowledge, and specific subject-wise questions. Knowing the layout of the exam is important for students to successfully navigate the exam. Serious students can find detailed information about the exam format in the table below to help them prepare.

Exam Pattern and Structure: CUET and Other University Entrance Exams
Feature	CUET Exam Pattern	Other University Entrance Exam Pattern
Name of the exam	CUET	BITSAT, JEE, NEET, VITEEE, SMRJEE, etc.
Mode	Computer-Based Test	Mostly Computer-Based/Offline
Sections	Language, Domain Subject, General Test	Varies widely
Syllabus	Based on NCERT Class 12	Often includes Logical Reasoning, GK
Difficulty Level	Moderate	Varies (Easy to Highly)
Duration	Around 2 hours	Ranges from 1 to 3 hours

Major Differences Between CUET and Other University Entrance Exams

It is a personal choice to make a decision on CUET or other University entrance exams. Consider the college experience, subjects, and career paths you envision. Review potential colleges, understand the specifications of each exam, and think through your strengths. Ultimately, there isn’t just one best entrance exam; it’s about which entrance exam fits your aspirations, strengths, and goals. Check the major changes in the table shared below:

Major Differences Between CUET and Other University Entrance Exams
Factors	CUET	Other University Entrance Exams
Competition and Admission Chances	CUET is a common entry point for millions of applicants—not just for the Delhi University BA (Hons), as it also offers nationwide opportunities.	Other high-stakes exams likely do not have this level of applicants, thus putting you in a better position for niche programs or private colleges, as long as you meet the necessary eligibility requirements.
What if you don’t succeed?	CUET is scheduled once every year; if you take the first attempt and are unhappy with it and wish to take a second attempt, you will have to wait a complete academic year.	Some private university exams are scheduled multiple times in an academic year, which adds flexibility if you miss or do not complete one of the attempts successfully.
What Type of Students Should Choose?	Strong in Class 12 subjects Aiming for central/state universities Prefers standardized and transparent admission Looking for affordable options	Interested in private or specialized universities Strong in aptitude-based testing Prefers interview-based admissions (like Ashoka, Shiv Nadar) Wants diverse courses (design, business, communication)

College Options: Where Will the Exam Take You?

The colleges you can access through a particular entrance exam play a major role in deciding which test to prioritize. Here’s how CUET and other University entrance exams differ in terms of college opportunities:

CUET: Entry into Central & State Universities

CUET (Common University Entrance Test) opens doors to over 250 universities, including the following Central, State, and Deemed universities. CUET is ideal if you’re targeting traditional academic disciplines such as humanities, sciences, commerce, or even newer programs offered by government-funded universities.

Central Universities: Delhi University (DU), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Jamia Millia Islamia, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), and more.
State Universities: Some state-level institutions like BBAU (Lucknow), Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University (Delhi), and others have also adopted CUET.
Deemed/Private Universities: A few private or deemed universities have started accepting CUET scores, but the list is still limited.

Other University Entrance Exams: Access to Specialized, Private, or Elite Institutions

While CUET gives access to a wide variety of public universities, many prestigious institutions do not accept CUET and instead conduct their own entrance exams. These universities often offer niche, modern, or interdisciplinary programs with strong industry connections, international collaborations, and flexibility in curriculum. These include:

BITSAT for admission to BITS Pilani, Goa, and Hyderabad campuses (engineering & sciences).
JEE (Main & Advanced) for entry into IITs, NITs, and IIITs (engineering).
Symbiosis SET for Symbiosis International University (law, management, liberal arts, etc.).
Ashoka University and Shiv Nadar University conduct their own selection process involving written tests, essays, and interviews.
Christ University, Manipal, Amity, and others have their own entrance tests for various UG and PG courses.

CUET Vs Other University Entrance Exams: Which Is Right for You?