CUET Maths 2026 is a 60-minute exam with 50 compulsory MCQs worth 250 marks total. You get +5 for correct answers and -1 for wrong ones. The syllabus follows Class 12 NCERT and is divided into Section A (common topics) plus either Section B1 (Regular Maths) or B2 (Applied Maths). If you are aiming for top DU colleges like SRCC, SSCBS, or LSR, your CUET Maths score matters a lot.
In this guide, I will walk you through everything you need to know about CUET Maths, the complete syllabus, exam pattern, which section to choose, and how to prepare effectively. One of my students, Pravit Chopra, scored AIR 269 in CUET and got admission to SRCC. I will share what worked for him too.
What is CUET Maths?
CUET (Common University Entrance Test) is conducted by NTA for admissions to central universities across India. Mathematics is one of the domain subjects you can choose if your target course requires it.
For Delhi University courses like B.A. Economics (Hons), B.Com (Hons), BBA, BMS, B.Sc. Mathematics, B.Sc. Statistics, and B.Sc. Computer Science, Mathematics or Applied Mathematics is mandatory. You cannot skip it if you want admission to these courses.
Important: For DU admissions through CUET, you must appear in the same Mathematics subject you studied in Class 12. If you did Regular Maths in boards, you appear for Section B1. If you did Applied Maths, you appear for Section B2.
CUET Maths exam pattern 2026
Here is the complete exam pattern at a glance:
| Detail | CUET Maths 2026 |
| Mode | Computer Based Test (CBT) |
| Total Questions | 50 MCQs (all compulsory) |
| Total Marks | 250 |
| Duration | 60 minutes |
| Correct Answer | +5 marks |
| Wrong Answer | -1 mark |
| Unanswered | 0 marks |
| Subject Code | 319 |
Key point: With negative marking of -1, you need to be careful about random guessing. If you are not at least 50% sure about an answer, it is often better to skip.
CUET Maths syllabus structure
The CUET Maths paper is divided into three sections:
| Section | Questions | Description |
| Section A | 15 | Common topics (compulsory for all) |
| Section B1 | 35 | Regular Mathematics (6 units) |
| Section B2 | 35 | Applied Mathematics (8 units) |
You attempt Section A (15 questions) plus either B1 or B2 (35 questions) = 50 questions total.
Section A: Common topics (15 questions)
Section A is compulsory for everyone, whether you choose B1 or B2. These topics are common to both Regular and Applied Mathematics:
| Topic | What it covers |
| Matrices & Determinants | Types, operations, inverses, solving linear equations |
| Higher Order Derivatives | Second derivatives, implicit differentiation |
| Maxima and Minima | First and second derivative tests |
| Integration | Indefinite and definite integration techniques |
| Area under Curves | Using definite integrals |
| Differential Equations | Order, degree, variable separation, solution of homogeneous equations and linear equations |
| Linear Programming | Graphical method, feasible regions |
2026 Update: This year, NTA has added “Integration of Square Root of Quadratic Equations” to the syllabus. Make sure you practice this topic.
Section B1 vs B2: Which should you choose?
This is not really a choice you make during the exam. It depends on what you studied in Class 12:
Choose Section B1 (Regular Maths) if: You studied Regular Mathematics in Class 12. This section includes Vectors, 3D Geometry, and Probability with Bayes’ theorem.
Choose Section B2 (Applied Maths) if: You studied Applied Mathematics in Class 12. This section includes Financial Mathematics, Index Numbers, Time Series, and Inferential Statistics.
Both sections are accepted equally by Delhi University and other CUET-participating universities. There is no advantage or disadvantage to either. What matters is how well you score, not which section you choose.
How to prepare for CUET Maths
Based on my experience coaching students for CUET, here is a practical preparation strategy:
1. Master NCERT first
CUET is based on the NCERT Class 12 syllabus. Do not jump to other books until you have completed every solved example and exercise in NCERT. Most questions are directly based on NCERT concepts.
2. Focus on Section A (15 questions = 75 marks)
Section A topics are common for everyone. If you can score 70+ marks here, you are already in a strong position. These topics (Matrices, Calculus basics, LP) are also relatively scoring.
3. Practice MCQs, not just theory
CUET is 100% MCQs. Your board exam preparation (which includes long answers) is not enough. You need to practice solving MCQs quickly and accurately. Time yourself while practicing.
4. Learn to manage negative marking
With -1 for wrong answers, blind guessing hurts. Train yourself to identify questions where you can eliminate options vs questions where you should skip.
Start with direct formula-based questions
Attempt questions that can be solved immediately using standard formulas or direct application.
Move to quick and familiar questions
Next, solve questions that are less time-consuming or look familiar/predictable.
Focus on your strong chapters
Attempt questions from topics where you have strong command to secure accuracy and confidence.
Tackle the remaining questions strategically
Attempt the leftover questions based on the time available, without rushing.
Avoid blind guessing
Do not attempt questions through random guesses, maintain accuracy to maximize your score.
Why CUET Maths matters: Courses and colleges
Your CUET Maths score directly affects admission to these high-demand courses:
Delhi University courses requiring CUET Maths:
B.A. Economics (Hons.), B.Com (Hons.), BBA, BMS, B.Sc. Mathematics, B.Sc. Statistics, B.Sc. Computer Science
Top DU colleges for these courses:
SRCC, SSCBS (Shaheed Sukhdev College of Business Studies), Hindu College, Hansraj College, LSR
Cutoff trend: For top colleges, you typically need 80+ percentile in CUET Maths. For SRCC and SSCBS, the competition is even higher.
Beyond DU: All universities that follow CUET for admissions accept this score. This includes JNU, BHU, Jamia, and many state universities.
For CA/CS aspirants: If you are planning to pursue CA, CS, or CMA after graduation, Applied Mathematics provides a strong foundation. The Financial Mathematics and Statistics topics directly help in these courses.
Student success story: Pravit Chopra (AIR 269, SRCC 2025)
One of my proudest moments as a teacher was when Pravit Chopra secured AIR 269 in CUET and got admission to SRCC in 2025. He had also scored 95% in his Class 12 Applied Mathematics board exam.
Pravit is proof that with the right preparation, students from Chandigarh can compete with the best in the country and secure seats in top Delhi University colleges.
Frequently asked questions about CUET Maths
Q: Is CUET Maths difficult?
A: CUET Maths is based on Class 12 NCERT, so the difficulty level is similar to board exams. However, the MCQ format with negative marking requires a different preparation approach. Students who practice MCQs regularly find it manageable.
Q: Can I appear for CUET Maths if I studied Applied Maths in Class 12?
A: Yes. You will appear for Section A (common) + Section B2 (Applied Maths). For DU admissions, your Class 12 maths subject must match your CUET section.
Q: How much time should I dedicate to CUET Maths preparation?
A: If you are already preparing for boards, you need 2-3 additional months focused on MCQ practice and time management. Your concepts are the same, but the exam format is different.
Q: Is there any syllabus difference between CUET Maths and Board Maths?
A: The syllabus is essentially the same as Class 12 NCERT. However, CUET has made minor updates for 2026, including adding integration of square root of quadratic equations.
Q: What is the best book for CUET Maths preparation?
A: Start with NCERT. After completing it, practice from CUET previous year papers and sample papers. For additional MCQ practice, you can use books specifically designed for CUET.
Q: Is coaching necessary for CUET Maths?
A: Not strictly necessary if you have strong fundamentals. However, coaching helps with structured preparation, MCQ practice, and time management strategies. It also gives you access to mock tests and personalized feedback.
Q: When is CUET Maths 2026 exam?
A: NTA typically conducts CUET between May and June. The exact dates for Mathematics will be announced on the official website cuet.nta.nic.in.
Prepare with expert guidance
At Ritu Mathematics Classes, we have been coaching students for CUET and board exams for over 10 years. Our students have secured admissions in SRCC, SSCBS, and other top DU colleges.
If you are in Chandigarh (Sector 35-44, New Chandigarh, Mohali) and want structured preparation for CUET Maths, book a free demo class with me.