The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released an important advisory regarding the dress code, permissible items, and exam-day instructions for CUET UG 2026.
With lakhs of students set to appear for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET), the agency has urged candidates to strictly follow the guidelines to ensure smooth entry into examination centres and avoid unnecessary delays.
The advisory comes ahead of the nationwide undergraduate entrance examination scheduled to begin this month.
Simple Dress Code Recommended for Candidates
According to the latest guidelines, candidates are advised to wear simple and comfortable clothing while appearing for the exam.
Allowed Dress Guidelines
- Light and simple clothes
- Half-sleeve shirts or tops preferred
- Sandals or slippers with thin soles
- Minimal accessories
The NTA has specifically discouraged candidates from wearing:
- Heavy jewellery
- Full-sleeve outfits
- Metallic accessories
- Shoes with thick soles
The purpose of these restrictions is to ensure faster security checks and smooth verification procedures at exam centres.
Religious Attire Rules
Candidates wearing customary religious attire will be allowed entry, but they may undergo additional security screening.
The agency has advised such candidates to report early at the exam centre to avoid inconvenience during frisking and verification.
List of Permissible Items
The advisory also specifies the items candidates are allowed to carry inside the examination hall.
Items Allowed Inside CUET Exam Centre
- CUET UG 2026 admit card
- Valid photo ID proof
- Transparent water bottle
- Passport-size photograph (same as application form)
- PwD certificate (if applicable)
Candidates are advised to keep documents ready in advance for smooth entry.
Banned Items Inside Exam Hall
NTA has issued strict instructions against carrying electronic gadgets or prohibited materials.
Items Not Allowed
- Mobile phones
- Smart watches
- Bluetooth devices
- Calculators
- Earphones/headphones
- Study material or notes
- Bags and wallets
Any candidate found carrying prohibited items may face disqualification or disciplinary action.
Reporting Time and Entry Rules
Candidates have been instructed to reach exam centres well before the reporting time mentioned on the admit card.
Late entry may not be permitted under any circumstances. Security checks and biometric verification are expected to take additional time due to the large number of candidates appearing for the exam.
Students are advised to carefully verify:
- Exam date
- Shift timing
- Centre address
- Reporting instructions
before leaving for the examination venue.
CUET UG 2026 Exam Details
CUET UG 2026 is being conducted for admission into undergraduate programmes offered by:
- Central universities
- State universities
- Deemed universities
- Other participating institutions across India
The examination will be held in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode across multiple cities in India and abroad.
Why Following the Dress Code Is Important
Education experts believe that following the prescribed dress code and instructions can help candidates:
- Avoid unnecessary stress at entry gates
- Complete verification quickly
- Focus entirely on the examination
In previous entrance exams, several students faced delays due to inappropriate attire or prohibited items, making adherence to guidelines extremely important.
