In a crucial update for lakhs of students appearing in the Common University Entrance Test, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued an advisory regarding photo mismatches in CUET UG 2026 applications, urging candidates to verify their identity details within a limited correction window.
The move comes after discrepancies were identified between candidates’ uploaded photographs and official identity records, raising concerns about exam-day verification and authentication.
What Is the CUET UG 2026 Photo Mismatch Issue?
During the application verification process, NTA observed that in several cases:
- The live photograph uploaded did not match Aadhaar or official ID records
- Some candidates used non-Aadhaar identity proofs, leading to inconsistencies
- Image quality or format issues also contributed to mismatches
To ensure a fair and secure examination process, NTA has mandated additional verification for affected candidates.
Correction Window: Important Dates and Guidelines
NTA has opened a special correction and verification window for candidates flagged with discrepancies.
Key Details:
- Correction Window: April 7 to April 10, 2026
- Submission Mode: Online via link sent to registered email IDs
- Document Format: PDF upload only
- Exam Dates: May 11 to May 31, 2026
Candidates must act within this deadline, as failure to comply may result in disqualification or issues in admit card issuance.
What Documents Do Candidates Need to Submit?
Affected candidates are required to upload:
- A recent passport-size photograph
- A signed and attested certificate verifying identity
Who Can Attest the Certificate?
- School/college Principal or Headmaster
- Class-I Gazetted Officer (e.g., SDM, Tehsildar, DM)
- Indian Embassy official (for NRI candidates)
Additionally, candidates must carry a printed copy of the certificate to the exam centre for physical verification.
Who Needs to Take Action?
This advisory is not for all candidates.
Only those:
- Flagged by NTA for photo mismatch
- Notified via email or portal alerts
need to complete the verification process.
