CUET UG Exam Day Checklist: Things to Carry & Avoid

Get ready for your CUET UG 2025 exam with our helpful checklist! Find out what to bring and what to avoid on exam day. Stay prepared and confident for success!

The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) UG is a crucial step for students aiming to secure a seat in top central and other participating universities across India. After months of preparation, revision, and mock tests, exam day becomes the most decisive moment in your academic journey.

But here’s a reality check: no matter how well you’ve prepared, forgetting an essential document or carrying a prohibited item can ruin your chances of appearing for the exam. To help you avoid such last-minute disasters, we’ve created a comprehensive CUET UG 2025 exam day checklist—with all the things you should carry and the things you absolutely must avoid.
 

Why Is an Exam Day Checklist Important?

Exam stress can often lead to forgetfulness. Amidst the tension, many students either forget important documents or unknowingly carry restricted items, leading to last-minute panic or even disqualification.

A checklist ensures that:

• You stay organized
• You reach the centre prepared
• You avoid unnecessary hassles and focus on your exam

So, let’s break down everything you need for a smooth CUET 2025 UG exam day experience.

Essential Items to Carry for CUET UG Exam

Here is a detailed list of things that are mandatory or highly recommended to carry on the day of your CUET UG exam:

1. Admit Card (Hard Copy)

• Where to get it: Download from the official NTA CUET website.
• Format: Take a clear printout on A4-size white paper.
• What to check: Ensure your photograph, signature, exam date, time, centre address, and instructions are clearly visible.

Pro Tip: Keep 2–3 printed copies just in case one gets damaged or misplaced.

 

2. Valid Photo ID Proof (Original)

You must carry any one of the following:

• Aadhaar Card
• Voter ID
• Passport
• PAN Card
• Driving License
• School/College ID (if specifically allowed)

Make sure your ID proof:

• Is original (not photocopy)
• Is valid and not expired
• Has details matching the admit card

 

3. Passport Size Photograph

Carry 1–2 recent passport-sized photographs. It should:

• Be the same photo used in the CUET application
• Be clear, without borders or filters

These are usually attached to attendance sheets or used for verification during biometric entry.

 

4. Ballpoint Pen (Black/Blue)

• Type: Transparent body pen (preferably ballpoint)
• Carry at least 2 pens in case one stops working

Even if your exam is CBT (computer-based test), some centres may ask you to fill details manually.

 

5. Transparent Water Bottle

Hydration is key! Carry:

• A transparent plastic water bottle
• Avoid bottles with stickers, designs, or colored plastic

 

6. COVID-19 Essentials (If Applicable)

Based on the latest guidelines from NTA or local authorities, you may also carry:

• Face mask (basic or N95)
• Small hand sanitizer bottle (50 ml, transparent)
• Personal tissue pack

While strict COVID protocols may be relaxed now, it’s better to stay cautious and prepared.

 

7. PwD Certificate and Related Documents (If Applicable)

If you’re a candidate with benchmark disability:

• Carry your valid PwD certificate (issued by a competent authority)
• If you’ve applied for a scribe, carry scribe-related approvals and documents

 

Additional Helpful Items (Optional but Recommended)

• Centre location printout or screenshot (in case network is poor)
• Extra face mask or tissue
• A basic wristwatch (non-digital) to keep track of time
• Any medication you may need (with prescription if necessary)

 

Things You Should NOT Carry to the CUET UG Exam Centre

NTA has strict guidelines regarding barred items. Here’s a list of prohibited or restricted items:

 

1. Electronic Devices

All forms of electronic gadgets are strictly banned, including:

• Mobile phones
• Smartwatches
• Bluetooth devices
• Earphones/headphones
• Digital watches
• Calculators or smart calculators
• Cameras

Even if kept switched off, these devices are not allowed inside the exam premises.

 

2. Stationery Items Not Permitted

• Geometry boxes
• Pencil pouches
• Scales or erasers (unless specifically mentioned)
• Writing pads or notebooks

Only a transparent pen and water bottle are allowed.

 

3. Bags and Large Personal Items

Avoid carrying:

• Handbags, backpacks, briefcases
• Fancy purses or luggage bags
• Any large or unnecessary personal items

Most centres do not provide secure lockers.

 

4. Eatables or Packaged Food

Unless you have a medical condition, food is not allowed inside the exam hall. Avoid:

• Chips, biscuits, snacks
• Chewing gum or chocolates

However, you may be permitted to carry your medicine and water bottle.

 

5. Metallic Items and Jewelry

To simplify frisking, avoid wearing:

• Earrings, chains, bangles, rings
• Metal belt buckles
• Metal hair clips or accessories

Dress light and simple.

 

6. Written or Printed Material

Any kind of notes, chits, question banks, or preparation materials found in your possession can be considered cheating—even if unintentional.

 

Dress Code: What to Wear on CUET UG Exam Day

While there’s no official dress code like NEET, it’s still wise to follow basic exam etiquette:

• Wear simple, comfortable clothing
• Avoid too many layers, pockets, or scarves
• Choose slip-on footwear over shoes with laces or heels
• Avoid metallic buttons or accessories

This makes the security process faster and smoother.

 

Time Management & Reporting Tips

1. Reach Early

Reach the exam centre at least 90 minutes before the reporting time mentioned on your admit card. Entry usually closes 30 minutes before the exam begins.

 

2. Know Your Centre in Advance

If possible, visit your exam centre location a day before, especially if it’s in a new city or area.

 

3. Check Exam Slot Timing Carefully

CUET UG exams are held in multiple shifts:

• Morning shift
• Afternoon shift
• Evening shift

Check and double-check your timing!

Common Mistakes to Avoid on Exam Day

• Forgetting your admit card or photo ID
• Reaching the centre late
• Carrying a mobile phone assuming you can keep it switched off
• Wearing fancy or uncomfortable clothes
• Not reading exam instructions carefully printed on the admit card

 

Final Words of Motivation

You’ve worked hard to prepare for CUET UG. Don’t let a small oversight spoil your efforts. A calm and prepared mind performs best in the exam hall.

Remember:

• Pack your bag a night before
• Set multiple alarms for the exam day
• Eat light and stay hydrated
• Trust your preparation

All the best for CUET UG! You’re closer to your dream college than ever before. Stay confident and go for it!

FAQs on CUET UG Exam Day Checklist

Q1: Can I take the CUET UG exam if I forget my photo ID but have my admit card?

Answer: No, you cannot. Both your admit card and a valid photo ID are mandatory for entry into the exam hall. If you forget your ID, you will likely be denied entry, regardless of having the admit card. Always double-check your documents before leaving home.

 

Q2: Are students allowed to carry analog wristwatches to the CUET exam hall?

Answer: Yes, simple analog watches (non-digital and without smart features) are usually allowed unless otherwise stated in your admit card instructions. However, it's always safest to confirm the latest guidelines from NTA before the exam.

 

Q3: What should I do if I face a technical issue during the computer-based CUET UG exam?

Answer: In case of any technical glitches like screen freezing or system error, immediately raise your hand and inform the invigilator. They are trained to handle such issues, and your time may be adjusted accordingly. Do not attempt to fix the issue yourself.

 

Q4: Can I change my exam centre on the day of the CUET UG exam?

Answer: No, you cannot change your exam centre on the day of the exam. The centre allotted to you on the admit card is final. If you go to a different centre, you will not be allowed to write the exam under any circumstances.

 

Q5: Is there any biometric verification done before entering the exam hall?

Answer: Yes, many CUET UG centres conduct biometric verification (fingerprint and/or photograph) as part of identity verification. Make sure your fingers are clean and free of mehndi or ink to avoid any scanning issues.