280+ Universities Accepting CUET 2026 Scores — Complete List
Every Central, State, Deemed, and Private university that accepts CUET scores. Find your perfect university-programme combination.
Table of Contents
CUET Universities — The Big Picture
The CUET universities list for 2026 includes over 280 institutions across India. Since its launch in 2022, the number of universities accepting CUET scores has grown steadily each year, making CUET the most versatile entrance exam in the country.
The distribution tells an important story: all 47 Central Universities are mandated to use CUET scores for UG admissions. The State, Deemed, and Private universities have opted in voluntarily, recognizing CUET as a fair, standardized measure of student ability.
For students, this means one exam opens doors to hundreds of institutions. Instead of filling out 20 different application forms with separate entrance tests, you take CUET once and apply to as many participating universities as you want with the same score.
All 47 Central Universities Accepting CUET 2026
Central Universities are funded and managed by the Government of India through the UGC. They are mandated to use CUET for all UG admissions. Here is the complete list:
| # | University | Location | Popular UG Programmes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Delhi (DU) | New Delhi | BA (H), B.Com (H), BSc (H) across 90+ colleges |
| 2 | Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) | New Delhi | BA (H) in Languages, Social Sciences |
| 3 | Banaras Hindu University (BHU) | Varanasi, UP | BA, BSc, B.Com, BFA, B.Mus across all faculties |
| 4 | Jamia Millia Islamia | New Delhi | BA (H), B.Com, BSc, BBA, B.Ed |
| 5 | Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) | Aligarh, UP | BA, BSc, B.Com, Engineering, Medicine (separate) |
| 6 | University of Hyderabad | Hyderabad, Telangana | BA, BSc in Sciences, Social Sciences |
| 7 | University of Allahabad | Prayagraj, UP | BA, BSc, B.Com, BCA |
| 8 | Visva-Bharati University | Santiniketan, WB | BA, BSc, BFA, B.Mus |
| 9 | Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University | Lucknow, UP | BA, BSc, B.Com, BCA, BBA |
| 10 | Assam University | Silchar, Assam | BA, BSc, B.Com |
| 11 | Central University of Gujarat | Gandhinagar, Gujarat | BA, BSc, Integrated programmes |
| 12 | Central University of Haryana | Mahendergarh, Haryana | BA, BSc, B.Com, BBA |
| 13 | Central University of Himachal Pradesh | Kangra, HP | BA, BSc, BBA |
| 14 | Central University of Jammu | Jammu | BA, BSc, B.Com, BCA |
| 15 | Central University of Jharkhand | Ranchi, Jharkhand | BA, BSc, B.Com, BCA |
| 16 | Central University of Karnataka | Kalaburagi, Karnataka | BA, BSc, B.Com |
| 17 | Central University of Kashmir | Ganderbal, J&K | BA, BSc |
| 18 | Central University of Kerala | Kasaragod, Kerala | BA, BSc, Integrated programmes |
| 19 | Central University of Odisha | Koraput, Odisha | BA, BSc |
| 20 | Central University of Punjab | Bathinda, Punjab | BA, BSc, B.Com, BBA |
| 21 | Central University of Rajasthan | Ajmer, Rajasthan | BA, BSc, B.Com, BBA |
| 22 | Central University of South Bihar | Gaya, Bihar | BA, BSc, B.Com, BCA |
| 23 | Central University of Tamil Nadu | Thiruvarur, TN | BA, BSc, Integrated programmes |
| 24 | Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya | Bilaspur, CG | BA, BSc, B.Com, BCA, BBA |
| 25 | Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University | Srinagar, Uttarakhand | BA, BSc, B.Com |
| 26 | Indira Gandhi National Tribal University | Amarkantak, MP | BA, BSc, B.Com |
| 27 | Mahatma Gandhi Antarrashtriya Hindi Vishwavidyalaya | Wardha, Maharashtra | BA in Hindi & Languages |
| 28 | Mahatma Gandhi Central University | Motihari, Bihar | BA, BSc, B.Com |
| 29 | Manipur University | Imphal, Manipur | BA, BSc |
| 30 | Maulana Azad National Urdu University | Hyderabad, Telangana | BA in Urdu, Mass Communication |
| 31 | Mizoram University | Aizawl, Mizoram | BA, BSc, B.Com |
| 32 | Nagaland University | Lumami, Nagaland | BA, BSc |
| 33 | North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) | Shillong, Meghalaya | BA, BSc, B.Com |
| 34 | Pondicherry University | Puducherry | BA, BSc, B.Com, BBA |
| 35 | Rajiv Gandhi University | Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh | BA, BSc, B.Com |
| 36 | Sikkim University | Gangtok, Sikkim | BA, BSc, B.Com |
| 37 | Tezpur University | Tezpur, Assam | BA, BSc, B.Com, BCA, Mass Communication |
| 38 | The English and Foreign Languages University | Hyderabad, Telangana | BA in English, Arabic, French, German, etc. |
| 39 | Tripura University | Agartala, Tripura | BA, BSc, B.Com |
| 40 | Dr. Hari Singh Gour University | Sagar, MP | BA, BSc, B.Com, BBA |
| 41 | Mahatma Gandhi University | Meghalaya | BA, BSc |
| 42 | Central University of Andhra Pradesh | Anantapur, AP | BA, BSc, Integrated programmes |
| 43 | Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh | Vizianagaram, AP | BA, BSc |
| 44 | Central Sanskrit University | New Delhi | BA/Shastri in Sanskrit, Vedic Studies |
| 45 | National Sanskrit University | Tirupati, AP | BA/Shastri in Sanskrit studies |
| 46 | Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri National Sanskrit University | New Delhi | BA/Shastri in Sanskrit, Philosophy |
| 47 | Central University of South Andhra Pradesh | Prakasam, AP | BA, BSc (newly established) |
Top 10 Most Sought-After CUET Universities
While all 280+ universities accept CUET, ten stand out for their brand value, placement records, faculty quality, and campus life. Here are mini profiles of the most popular choices:
1. University of Delhi (DU)
India's most prestigious undergraduate university with 90+ affiliated colleges including SRCC, Hindu College, St. Stephen's, Lady Shri Ram, and Hansraj. DU receives the highest number of CUET applications every year. The university offers over 200 UG programmes across Arts, Commerce, Science, and professional courses. DU colleges consistently dominate the NIRF rankings for colleges.
2. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)
Renowned for Social Sciences, Languages, and International Studies. JNU is consistently ranked among India's top 5 universities. Known for its vibrant academic culture, diverse student body, and exceptional faculty. The campus in South Delhi spans 1,019 acres and offers highly subsidized hostel accommodation.
3. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
Asia's largest residential university with a sprawling 1,300-acre campus in Varanasi. BHU offers programmes across 16 faculties and 140+ departments. Known for Sciences, Engineering (IIT-BHU), Medicine, and Liberal Arts. The university's cultural heritage and academic rigour attract students from across India.
4. Jamia Millia Islamia
A prestigious Central University in New Delhi with strong programmes in Mass Communication, Engineering, Education, and Social Sciences. Jamia is NAAC A++ accredited and consistently ranked in the top 10 Central Universities. Its location in South Delhi provides excellent internship and placement opportunities.
5. Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)
One of India's oldest and most respected universities, established in 1875. AMU offers over 300 programmes across traditional and professional disciplines. Particularly renowned for Medicine, Engineering, Law, and Liberal Arts. The university has a unique residential character with a campus spread over 1,155 acres.
6. University of Hyderabad
Known as India's top research university. Strong in Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Life Sciences), Social Sciences, and Humanities. Consistently ranked in the top 10 nationally. The campus spans 2,300 acres with modern research facilities and a diverse, research-oriented student body.
7. Pondicherry University
Located in the charming coastal town of Puducherry, this university offers excellent programmes in Management, Tourism, International Business, and Sciences. Known for its beautiful seaside campus and quality education at affordable fees. Strong industry connections provide good placement opportunities.
8. Tezpur University
The best Central University in Northeast India. Tezpur is known for Mass Communication, Computer Science, Environmental Science, and Cultural Studies. NAAC A grade and consistently ranked among India's top 50 universities. The campus overlooking the Brahmaputra river is one of the most scenic in the country.
9. University of Allahabad
One of the oldest universities in India (established 1887) and often called the "Oxford of the East." Strong in Law, Arts, Science, and Commerce. Located in the historic city of Prayagraj, the university has produced several notable alumni including former Prime Ministers and Supreme Court judges.
10. Visva-Bharati University
Founded by Rabindranath Tagore in Santiniketan, West Bengal. Unique educational philosophy emphasizing open-air learning, arts, and cultural engagement. Particularly renowned for Fine Arts (BFA), Music (B.Mus), and Bengali Literature. A UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers an educational experience unlike any other institution.
Course-Wise CUET Subject Requirements
Different programmes at different universities require specific CUET papers. Here is a ready reference for the most popular programmes:
| UG Programme | Required CUET Papers | Class 12 Subject Needed |
|---|---|---|
| BA (H) Economics | Language + Economics + Maths (DU) | Mathematics in Class 12 |
| BA (H) English | English Language + English Domain | English in Class 12 |
| BA (H) Political Science | Language + Political Science | No specific requirement |
| BA (H) History | Language + History | No specific requirement |
| BA (H) Psychology | Language + Psychology + General Test | Varies by university |
| B.Com (H) | Language + Accountancy + Maths/Economics | Accountancy/Maths preferred |
| BSc (H) Physics | Language + Physics + Maths | Physics + Maths in Class 12 |
| BSc (H) Chemistry | Language + Chemistry | Chemistry in Class 12 |
| BSc (H) Mathematics | Language + Mathematics | Mathematics in Class 12 |
| BSc (H) Computer Science | Language + Maths + Computer Science | Maths + CS in Class 12 |
| BBA | Language + General Test | No specific requirement |
| BA (H) Sociology | Language + Sociology | No specific requirement |
| BA (H) Geography | Language + Geography | Geography preferred |
| Integrated Law (5-Year) | Language + General Test (varies) | No specific requirement |
Important: Subject requirements vary across universities even for the same programme. For example, DU requires Mathematics for BA (H) Economics, but BHU does not. Always verify requirements from the specific university's admission brochure before choosing your CUET papers.
State-Wise University Count
CUET-accepting universities are spread across India. Here is the distribution by state:
| State/UT | Central | State | Deemed | Private | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 4 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 14 |
| Uttar Pradesh | 5 | 4 | 4 | 18 | 31 |
| Rajasthan | 1 | 3 | 2 | 15 | 21 |
| Maharashtra | 1 | 4 | 5 | 12 | 22 |
| Madhya Pradesh | 2 | 3 | 2 | 14 | 21 |
| Karnataka | 1 | 2 | 4 | 10 | 17 |
| Tamil Nadu | 1 | 2 | 3 | 8 | 14 |
| Bihar | 2 | 2 | 0 | 5 | 9 |
| West Bengal | 1 | 2 | 1 | 6 | 10 |
| Gujarat | 1 | 2 | 1 | 8 | 12 |
| Haryana | 1 | 2 | 1 | 12 | 16 |
| Telangana | 3 | 1 | 2 | 6 | 12 |
| Andhra Pradesh | 3 | 1 | 2 | 8 | 14 |
| Uttarakhand | 1 | 1 | 1 | 7 | 10 |
| Punjab | 1 | 1 | 0 | 8 | 10 |
| Northeast States | 10 | 3 | 1 | 4 | 18 |
| Others (J&K, HP, Goa, etc.) | 9 | 7 | 3 | 25 | 44 |
Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan have the highest number of CUET-accepting universities, making them hotspots for students looking for maximum options. Delhi, despite having fewer total universities, has the highest-demand institutions (DU, JNU, Jamia).
How to Check If Your Target University Accepts CUET
Not sure if your preferred university uses CUET? Follow this step-by-step process:
- Visit the NTA CUET official website (cuet.nta.nic.in). The Information Bulletin for CUET 2026 contains the complete list of participating universities, updated annually.
- Check the university's official admission page. Search for "[University Name] UG admission 2026" on Google. The admission brochure will clearly state whether CUET scores are required, recommended, or optional.
- Look for the CUET requirement in the programme-specific section. Some universities use CUET for certain programmes but have their own entrance test for others (e.g., AMU uses CUET for Arts but has separate tests for Engineering).
- Contact the university admission cell directly if you cannot find clear information online. Most universities have helpline numbers listed on their websites during the admission season.
- Check the CSAS (Common Seat Allocation System) portal if you are applying to Central Universities. The CSAS portal lists all participating universities and their CUET-based programmes.
New for 2026: Several universities have joined the CUET ecosystem this year. If a university did not accept CUET in 2025, check again for 2026 — the list expands every year as more institutions recognize the benefits of a standardized entrance test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many universities accept CUET scores in 2026?
Over 280 universities accept CUET 2026 scores, including all 47 Central Universities, 42 State Universities, 35 Deemed Universities, and 171 Private Universities. The number has grown from approximately 250 in 2024 to 280+ in 2026.
Q: Is CUET mandatory for DU admission?
Yes, CUET is mandatory for all UG admissions at Delhi University. DU no longer accepts Class 12 board marks for merit-based admission. You must appear for CUET and score above the programme-specific cutoff to be eligible for DU admission through the CSAS counselling process.
Q: Can I apply to multiple universities with one CUET score?
Yes, this is one of the biggest advantages of CUET. With a single exam and a single score, you can apply to as many participating universities as you want. There is no limit on the number of university applications. However, Central Universities use the CSAS system where you can list multiple university-programme preferences in a single application.
Q: Do private universities also accept CUET scores?
Yes, 171 private universities accept CUET scores for 2026 admissions. These include well-known names like Amity University, Lovely Professional University, Sharda University, and others. Private universities typically use CUET scores alongside their own criteria (such as personal interviews or group discussions).
Q: Which is the best university accepting CUET for Commerce?
For B.Com (Hons), SRCC (DU) is the undisputed top choice, followed by Hindu College (DU), Hansraj College (DU), and BHU. For BBA, Jamia Millia Islamia and Pondicherry University are excellent options. The "best" choice depends on your career goals, location preference, and score.
Q: Is CUET score valid for one year or multiple years?
CUET scores are valid only for the admission cycle of that year. A CUET 2026 score can only be used for 2026-27 academic session admissions. If you want admission in 2027, you must appear for CUET 2027 again. There is no provision to carry forward scores.