As per the latest official notification, the NTA has reduced both the overall number of examination cities and the number of city options that candidates can select while filling out the application form.
Outlined below are the key changes introduced for CUET PG 2026, along with details of the applicable fee structure.
Key Changes in Examination Centres
1. Reduction in Exam Cities:
CUET PG 2026 will now be conducted in a total of 292 cities worldwide, reflecting a reduction compared to the previous year’s coverage of 312 cities.
- Domestic Centres: 276 cities across India (reduced from approximately 285 earlier).
- International Centres: 16 locations abroad (reduced from 27).
2. Exam City Choice Restricted to Two:
In a significant departure from earlier practice, candidates are now permitted to select only two exam cities as their preferences. Previously, applicants could choose up to four cities.
- Basis of Selection: The exam city preferences must be chosen based on either the candidate’s Permanent Address or Present Address.
- NTA Disclaimer:
“Though every effort will be made to allot a Centre in one of the cities selected by the candidate, the NTA reserves the right to allot a city to the candidate other than the options opted by the candidates due to administrative reasons.”
What Remains Unchanged?
Despite these logistical adjustments, the fundamental structure of the CUET PG examination remains unchanged:
- Mode of Examination: Computer-Based Test (CBT).
- Number of Subjects: 157 subjects.
- Duration: 90 minutes per paper.
Fee Structure for CUET PG 2026
The application fee is charged per paper. Candidates applying for more than one paper will be required to pay the fee separately for each paper selected.
| Category | Fee per Paper |
| General | Rs 700/- |
| OBC-NCL / SC / ST | Rs 600/- |
| International Candidates | Rs 3,500/- |
Conclusion
In light of the reduced number of exam cities and limited city preferences, candidates are strongly advised to choose their exam locations judiciously, preferably closer to their permanent or current address, to minimize travel-related challenges. With the registration window already open, early application is recommended to avoid last-minute issues and to improve the chances of being allotted a preferred exam city.