The Common University Entrance Test – Undergraduate (CUET UG) 2026 hit a rough patch on Saturday as a technical glitch delayed the start of the examination at several centres across the country.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) confirmed that TCS, its technology partner, reported the technical fault at its end, which caused the delay in commencing the exam at the affected centres on May 30.
Assuring students and parents, the NTA stated that the issue has since been resolved and the examination is being conducted with full compensatory time so that no candidate is put at a disadvantage.
Afternoon Session Timings Revised
In view of the disruption, the NTA announced a revision to the afternoon session schedule. Candidates appearing in the afternoon shift are now required to report and enter from 2:30 pm, with the examination beginning at 4:00 pm – an hour later than the originally scheduled 3:00 pm start.
Morning session candidates are being given the full duration of the paper and are allowed to exit only after the completion of the test.
Follow TJP Whatsapp ChannelNTA Regrets Inconvenience
The NTA expressed sincere regret over the inconvenience caused to students and parents due to the disruption. The agency has urged candidates to stay calm and make use of the helpline for any assistance. Students can reach out via the helpline number +91-11-40759000 or email at cuet-ug@nta.ac.in.
About CUET UG
Introduced in 2022, CUET UG is a standardised, national-level entrance exam conducted by the NTA for admissions into undergraduate programmes across central, state, and select private universities. The exam evaluates candidates on language skills, domain-specific subjects, and general aptitude, in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
This is not the first time CUET has faced technical disruptions. The entrance test has had a turbulent history since its launch, with glitches and logistical issues being reported in previous years as well – raising fresh questions about the robustness of the exam infrastructure.
Students are advised to keep checking the official NTA website and their registered email IDs for any further updates.
