CUET PG Total Marks 2026, Qualifying Marks, Paper Pattern, Time Duration, Percentile Calculation

One of the most common queries for CUET PG 2026 is about its total marks and qualifying marks. The CUET PG exam is the gateway for admission into postgraduate programs at central and participating universities. Every year, lakhs of aspirants compete in this exam. In this blog, we have clearly answered your top queries like CUET PG total marks, qualifying marks, marking scheme, exam pattern, and percentile calculation. We’ll also guide you on what to do after the CUET PG result 2026 so that you are ready for the next stage of counselling and admissions.

CUET PG Total Marks: Qualifying Marks, Negative Marks, Marking Scheme Explained

Preparing for CUET PG 2026 also involves a clear understanding of how the exam is evaluated. Knowing the total marks, qualifying marks, marking scheme, and negative marking rules helps you plan your attempts smartly.

CUET PG Total Marks 2026

• The CUET PG exam consists of 75 multiple-choice subject-specific questions (MCQs).
• Every correct answer carries +4 marks, making the CUET PG total marks = 300. 

CUET PG Marking Scheme 2026

• Correct Answer:  +4 marks
• Incorrect Answer:  –1 mark (negative marking applies)
• Unattempted Question: 0 marks (no deduction)

This means accuracy plays a very important role in scoring well. Random guessing can significantly reduce your final score due to negative marking.

CUET PG Negative Marks 2026

• For every wrong answer, 1 mark is deducted.
• Example: If you attempt 80 questions, out of which 60 are correct and 20 are wrong →
  • Marks from correct answers = 60 × 4 = 240
  • Marks deducted for wrong answers = 20 × 1 = 20
  • Final Score = 240 – 20 = 220 marks

CUET PG Qualifying Marks 2026

The qualifying marks are the minimum marks required to be considered eligible for the next admission stage. However, candidates must not confuse qualifying marks with cut-off marks.

• Qualifying Marks: The baseline score set by NTA to declare a candidate “qualified”.
• Cut-Off Marks: Higher marks decided by individual universities for actual admission. The CUET PG cut-off marks will vary depending on the course, category, and number of seats.

While the official CUET PG qualifying marks 2026 will be released along with the result, previous years suggest that:

• General Category candidates usually need around 40 to 45% of the total marks.
• Reserved Categories (OBC, SC, ST, PwD) generally require around 35 to 40%.

Candidates should aim much higher than the qualifying marks. The top universities set their cut-offs significantly above the CUET PG qualifying marks.

CUET PG Exam Pattern 2026

To prepare strategically for CUET PG 2026, you must understand the exam pattern in detail. The exam is designed to test subject knowledge, reasoning skills, and overall subject aptitude. A clear understanding of the CUET PG exam helps candidates manage time effectively and maximise their score.

Mode of Examination

• The exam is conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.
• Candidates attempt the paper online at designated exam centres.

Questions Type

• The paper consists of Objective Type – Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
• Each question has four options, with only one correct answer.

CUET PG Time Duration 2026

• The official CUET PG exam duration is 1.5 hours (90 minutes).
• Candidates must attempt all questions within this fixed time.
• There is no sectional time limit. This means candidates can switch between questions freely.

CUET PG Paper Pattern 2026 & Qualifying Marks – At a Glance

How to Calculate Percentile in CUET PG 2026?

Many students often get confused between percentage and percentile in CUET PG. A percentage is the simple ratio of marks obtained out of the total marks. A percentile is a relative score that indicates how a candidate performed compared to others. The CUET PG percentile is used for preparing merit lists, counselling, and seat allocation.

CUET PG Percentile vs. Percentage

• Percentage: (Marks Scored ÷ Total Marks) × 100
• Percentile: Position of a candidate relative to other test-takers.

Example: If you score 200 out of 400, your percentage is 50%. However, your percentile will depend on how many students scored lower or higher than you.

CUET PG Percentile Formula 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) calculates percentile using the following formula:

Where:

• Rank of the Candidate = Position of the student based on marks.
• Total Candidates Appeared = Total number of students who attempted the exam.

CUET PG Marks vs Percentile Conversion Chart

Studying previous CUET PG results provides useful insights into how marks translate into percentiles. For instance, candidates who scored above 200 out of 300 in past years generally secured a percentile between 75 and 100. This reflects a strong overall performance.

Key Points About CUET PG Percentile 2026

• Percentile is not the same as percentage.
• Two students with the same marks may have different percentiles if they appeared in different exam shifts (NTA normalises scores across shifts).
• Admission and cut-offs are based on percentile, not raw scores alone.

What to Do After CUET PG Result 2026?

Clearing the CUET PG 2026 exam is only the first step toward securing admission. After the results are declared by NTA, candidates need to follow a structured process to ensure they don’t miss out on opportunities. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after the CUET PG result is announced.

Check Your CUET PG Result & Scorecard

• Visit the official CUET PG website and download your scorecard using your application number and password.
• Verify details like total marks, percentile, and rank.
• Keep a soft and hard copy of your scorecard for future counselling rounds.

CUET PG Cut Off 2026

After the results, each participating university releases its own cut-off marks for different courses.

The cut-off depends on factors like:

• Difficulty level of the exam
• Number of applicants
• Seat availability
• Category-wise reservation (General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS, PwD)
• Candidates should compare their percentile/marks with the university cut-offs to evaluate admission chances.

CUET PG Merit List 2026

Universities prepare a merit list based on candidates’ percentile scores. The merit list includes:

• Candidate’s name
• Roll number
• Subject opted
• Percentile and rank

Shortlisted candidates are called for counselling rounds depending on their position in the merit list.

CUET PG Counselling 2026

The counselling for CUET PG is conducted separately by each participating university.

Steps in CUET PG Counselling:

1. Registration: Apply on the official website of the chosen university.
2. Choice Filling:  Select preferred PG programs and courses.
3. Seat Allotment:  Based on rank, percentile, and seat availability, a seat is allotted.
4. Document Verification: Submit original documents (marksheets, certificates, ID proofs, etc.).
5. Fee Payment & Admission Confirmation: Pay the admission fee to secure your seat.

If seats remain vacant, some universities may also conduct spot admissions.

How to download CUET PG Result 2025 online?

• Visit the official CUET PG website: cuet.nta.nic.in.
• Click on the “CUET PG 2026 Result” link.
• Enter your Application Number and Password/Date of Birth.
• Download the scorecard and check details like marks, percentile, and rank.
• Save both digital and printed copies for future counselling and admission.