Is CUET 2025 Exam Similar to NEET 2025 Exam?

Overview: Is CUET similar to NEET? Explore the differences and similarities between NEET and CUET entrance exams in our detailed guide. Understand the preparation strategies for both, and learn about the variety of medical courses offered through CUET. Ideal for medical students who want to learn more about these difficult tests. 

After the completion of board exams, students are at a crossroads, navigating the maze of multiple entrance exams in order to get admission to their selected colleges and courses.

Due to their apparent similarities, two renowned examinations, NEET (National Eligibility and Entrance Test) and CUET (Central University Entrance Test), at times leave medical candidates confused. 

Is CUET similar to NEET ?

In this extensive article, we will delve into the complicated structure of both examinations, analyzing similarities and differences as well as sharing insights into preparation strategies. 

Download FREE Study Material for CUET 2025 by cuet.com

CUET Vs NEET

NEET: Understanding the Basics 

NEET, conducted by the National Board of Examination (NBE), stands as the primary gateway for medical aspirants seeking admission to undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The exam is administered once a year, and the results are valid for a year.

NEET UG allows for admission to MBBS programs, whereas NEET PG allows for admission to MD/MS programs and other programs. This consolidated exam has replaced prior exams such as AIPMT and has become the primary criterion for admission to medical programs at various universities. 

Learn why: Why CUET Is Important?

CUET: Understanding the Basics 

CUET, on the other hand, is the National Testing Agency's (NTA) entrance exam for students seeking admission to central universities.

CUET, which focuses on basic scientific and technological abilities, is required by students wishing to enroll at universities such as Delhi University.

Unlike NEET, CUET includes a broader range of courses, such as engineering, technology, and other undergraduate degrees. 

Preparation Strategies for NEET and CUET 

Similarities in NEET and CUET 

• Eligibility Criteria: Both exams require candidates to pass Class 12 board exams from a recognized board. 
• Syllabus: Board exam preparation can significantly contribute to success in NEET and CUET, given the overlapping syllabus. 
• Competitiveness: Both exams are highly competitive, demanding smart study strategies over sheer hard work. 
• Exam Pattern: The structure of both exams involves multiple-choice questions within a three-hour time frame, emphasizing the importance of mock tests and sample papers for improved speed. 
• Technical/Domain Subjects: Proficiency in domain subjects is crucial for success in both exams. 
• Negative Marking: Both NEET and CUET feature negative marking for incorrect answers, requiring candidates to exercise caution in their responses. 

Read more: CUET Eligibility Criteria

Differences between NEET and CUET 

Type of Entrance Exam: 

• NEET is a centralized entrance exam. 
• CUET is more university-based. 

Access to Types of Courses: 

• NEET primarily facilitates entry into medical courses. 
• CUET opens doors to a variety of courses in central universities, including engineering and technical programs. 

Check: CUET Course List

Syllabus: 

• NEET covers the entire Class 11 and Class 12 syllabus. 
• CUET focuses on the Class 12 syllabus but includes additional sections like English language, general knowledge, and reasoning. 

Read more: CUET 2025 Syllabus

Exam Pattern: 

• NEET comprises 200 objective-type questions from chemistry, physics, and biology. 
• CUET includes 180 questions from four domains, allowing aspirants to choose a preferred subject. 

Read more: CUET Exam Pattern

Cut-Off: 

• NEET has a 50% cut-off. 
• CUET's cut-off for the general category is around 50%, reflecting recent trends. 

NCERT Books: 

• NEET preparation heavily relies on NCERT books for Class 11 and Class 12. 
• CUET demands additional resources beyond NCERT books, including study materials and online platforms, especially for reasoning, general knowledge, and English. 

Does NEET Preparation Help in CUET Preparation and Vice-Versa? 

While there is some overlap in preparation, NEET and CUET only complement each other partially. The inclusion of Class 11 syllabus in NEET, which is absent in CUET, and the presence of reasoning in CUET, which is absent in NEET, differentiates the two tests.

For NEET, aspirant medical students should devote sufficient time to physics, chemistry, and biology, whereas CUET applicants must prepare for additional sections such as reasoning, general knowledge, and English. 

Read more: CUET Study Plan

Preparation Strategies For NEET And CUET 

• Excel in Fundamental Board Exams: Achieve excellence in your Class 12 board examinations, meeting the shared eligibility criteria for both NEET and CUET. 
• Adopt an Integrated Syllabus Strategy: Recognize common topics across board exams, NEET, and CUET, optimizing your preparation for efficiency. 
• Employ Strategic Study Methods for Competitiveness: Transition from sheer effort to intelligent study techniques to outperform the numerous aspirants in the competitive landscape. 
• Master Exam Patterns through Mock Tests: Regularly engage in mock tests and sample papers to refine time management skills and bolster your confidence. 
• Attain Proficiency in Domain Subjects: Establish a robust understanding of biology, physics, and chemistry for NEET, and concentrate on your selected domain for CUET. 
• Exercise Caution with Negative Marking: Refrain from guessing; respond only when certain to minimize the impact of negative marking in both NEET and CUET. 
• Continuously Assess Yourself: Regularly evaluate your strengths and weaknesses to fine-tune study strategies and ensure ongoing improvement. 
• Stay Informed about Exam Trends: Keep updated on the latest patterns and trends in NEET and CUET to align your preparation with the current requirements. 
• Prioritize Effective Time Management: Cultivate efficient time management skills through timed practice sessions for seamless execution on the day of the exam. 
• Maintain a Balanced and Disciplined Approach: Sustain a well-balanced and disciplined study routine, allocating ample focus to all subjects for comprehensive preparation.  

Read more: CUET 2025 Preparation TIps

CUET Medical Courses

The Central Universities Common Entrance Test (CUET) provides an array of medical degrees to fulfill the needs and objectives of aspiring healthcare professionals.

These courses span medicine, pharmacy, nursing, and allied health sciences, providing students a solid basis for a rewarding career in healthcare. 

Medical courses at CUET aim to develop expertise, abilities, and ethical values in students, preparing them to improve the health and well-being of individuals and communities. 

Below is the list of CUET medical courses:  

S.No	Academic Programs
1	B. Pharma
2	D. Pharma
3	Bachelor in Para Medical Sciences
4	B.Sc. Medical Biotechnology
5	B.Sc. in Cardiovascular Technology
6	B.Sc. Forensic Science
7	B.Sc. Nursing
8	B.Sc. Optometry
9	B.Sc. Nursing
10	Post Basic B.Sc.
11	B.Sc. in MLT (BMLT)
12	B.Sc. in RT (BRIT)
13	B.Sc. MRIT
14	Paramedical Sciences
15	Medical Biotechnology
16	BPT
17	BNYS
18	BMLT
19	MLT
20	AOTT
21	DT
22	RIT
23	PA
24	ACP
25	OTT
26	CCLT
27	DTT
28	CHS
29	GNM

Central Universities Offering CUET Medical Courses  

University	Courses	CUET Subjects	Eligibility
Assam University	B. Pharma	One Language General Test Three domain specific subjects viz; Physics, Chemistry and Biology or Mathematics.	10+2 with individual pass marks in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics or Biology with min 50%. Relaxation in eligibility is as per GOI rule.
Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (Amethi Campus)	D. Pharma	Any Language Physics/Chemistry/Biology/ Mathematics (any three)	Intermediate with Physics, Chemistry and Biology or Mathematics (regular science academic stream) with 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/PWD) from recognised board.
Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya	B. Pharma	Three Domain subjects (Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics or Biology) from Section II + GT	10+2 in Science (Biology /Maths), with minimum 45% marks or equivalent CGPA or equivalent Grade with English as one of the subjects (SC, ST and PWD categories- 5% relaxation)
Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya	B. Pharma & D. Pharma	General Test	50% in 10+2 with PCM /PCB from any recognized Board or equivalent. B.Pharma- Max. age limit: 22 years D.Pharma- Max. age limit: 25 years
Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University	B. Pharma	Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics or Physics, Chemistry and Biology or Chemistry and Biology	A.) Direct Entry B.) Lateral Entry (2nd Year)
Indira Gandhi National Tribal University	B. Pharma & D. Pharma, Lateral Entry	Biology + Chemistry + Mathematics	12th with (P.C.M) or (P.C.B/P.C.M.B.) with min of 50% (SC/ST/PWD-45%)

Check: CUET B.Pharma Government College List

State Universities Offering CUET Medical Courses  

University	Courses	CUET Subjects	Eligibility
Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya	B. Pharma	Section1A(English) + Physics + Chemistry + Biology	10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics/ Biology minimum 50% marks in aggregate.
Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University	B. Pharma, Lateral Entry	Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics General Test	10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics/ Biology (Diploma in Pharmacy course securing a minimum of 45% marks (40% for SC/ST))
Madan mohan Malaviya University of Technology	B. Pharma, Lateral Entry	Physics, Chemistry and (Mathematics or Biology) (Biology or Mathematics) and General Test	10+2 with at least 55% marks (50%- SC/ST category) (PCM) (PCB/PCMB) Diploma in Pharmacy course securing a minimum of 45% marks (40% for SC/ST))
Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand University	B. Pharma, Lateral Entry	Physics, Chemistry and (Mathematics or Biology) (Biology or Mathematics) and General Test	10+2 with (PCM) (PCB/PCMB) Diploma in Pharmacy course

Read more: CUET Biology Syllabus

In the pursuit for a career in medicine, the comparison of NEET and CUET highlights both similarities and differences. Success requires excelling in board exams, using an integrated curriculum approach, and mastering competitive examination approaches.

NEET is the primary pathway for medical courses, whereas CUET provides a wide variety of healthcare programs. With these insights, may your path to medical school be well-guided and successful. Best regards. 

Know more: CUET Participating Universities

Key Takeaways:

• Is CUET similar to NEET? NEET is solely for medical studies; CUET includes medical and other fields.
• NEET tests on Classes 11 & 12; CUET on Class 12 plus reasoning and general knowledge.
• NEET and CUET preparations differ due to varied syllabi and exam structures.
• Both require strategic study due to competitiveness and similar testing formats.
• Caution is needed for both exams due to negative marking for wrong answers.
• CUET offers a broader range of medical-related courses across various universities.