The academic year 2022-23 is going to usher in a transition in terms of Delhi University (DU) admission. From this year onwards DU admissions to undergraduate programmes will be conducted through the Central University Common Entrance Test (CUCET). This exam also goes by the name “Delhi University Common Entrance Test (DUCET)“. Earlier, Class 12 board exam marks were taken into consideration for admission to DU colleges. However, with the introduction of CUCET, students will have to qualify the dedicated entrance test to seek admission.
Key Meeting in December 2021
In December 2021, the University of Delhi had chaired a key meeting with stakeholders and important ministers. During this meeting, the central university discussed the possibility of conducting a common entrance test for admissions to UG courses. Thereafter, it was announced that CUCET would be conducted from the academic year 2022-23 for students who wish to pursue their graduation at DU.
Difference Between DUET & CUCET
Every year, the National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts the DUET examination for admission to UG and PG programmes. DUET stands for “Delhi University Entrance Test”, an exam that seeks to grant admission to qualified individuals only in colleges affiliated with DU. So, this exam was not applicable for seeking admission to other central universities.
CUCET, on the other hand, is a national-level entrance exam that seeks to grant admission to central universities across the country. Of course, this admission will be subjected to eligibility, merit, reservation, and other factors. However, it must not be confused with the DUET examination.
CUCET – An initiative under NEP 2020
According to a report by News18, CUCET is an initiative under the 2020 National Education Policy (NEP). Although planned for the upcoming academic year, the government is yet to launch the entrance test. The test is expected to feature questions from several subjects including Science, Mathematics, History, and Civics. Additionally, students will also be tested on the basis of Logical Reasoning and General Knowledge aspects.
Proposed under NEP 2022, this test aims to test a student’s critical thinking capacity rather than memorizing capacity. This is precisely why the CUCET 2022 examination is expected to transform the DU admission process.
Although a dedicated entrance exam is being conducted, central universities are also likely to equally prioritize Class 12 board exam 2022 performance. So, while evaluating the performance of students, 50% weightage will be given to CUCET and the remaining 50% importance to Class 12 marks, as per reports.