All three shifts of the first phase of CUET have been completed successfully, with a total number of candidates falling around 2,65,248. Shift 1 of CUET-UG concluded well in all 271 cities and 447 centres. The total number of candidates scheduled in shift 1 was 87,879. Shift 2 of CUET-UG ended well in all 272 cities and 448 centres. The total number of candidates scheduled in shift 2 was 87,903. Shift 3 of CUET-UG concluded well in all 271 cities and 458 centres. The total number of candidates scheduled in shift 3 was around 89,466. The attendance on 21 May was around 76%, a significant jump from last year, that was recorded to be around 62%.

In 2% of centres (approximately 12 out of 450), the exam started later than scheduled but was successfully completed. It must further be noted that the exam started late owing to a couple of reasons, such as power fluctuations in some centres and, in others, students needing to follow staggered entry. However, students were previously informed to enter the examination centre in a staggered manner. But in a few centres, since some students were late, there was crowding and subsequent delay in the start of the exam.

“We request the students to come staggered to avoid this kind of situation. We have now taken administrative measures to prevent such situations in the future. In many cities, we have also taken help from the traffic police to minimise traffic jams around the centres. We have also provided basic amenities like water, refreshments, and covered shelters/waiting areas to Candidates and their Parents / Guardians. Candidates and their parents were also regularly informed about the steps taken and the exam start status in the centres where there was a delay in starting the test. We will continue to take measures to provide a better experience to the students sitting for CUET-UG”. stated the UGC chairman

Back in the year 2022, the UGC along with the MoE planned to hold a centralised entrance exam for granting undergraduate admission to the central and many other institutions (state, deemed, and private). A year later, at present over 200 universities are taking part in CUET 2023. The entire CUET concept has completely changed how undergraduate admissions are handled throughout the nation.

“For the second phase (25-28 May), we are working to provide admit cards by the 22nd late night or 23 May. We will announce the City information slips for the third phase (29 May – 2 June) on 23 May” added the UGC chairman further.

One of the major differences which CUET has brought in is that it has eliminated the variation in marking policies used by several boards. No candidate must now contend with the high cutoffs of several prestigious colleges. In light of this, CUET is crucial for all students.