The Common University Entrance Test (CUET)-UG 2023 witnessed an impressive turnout on its first day, with 2,65,248 candidates appearing for the exam, according to the Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC), Professor M. Jagadesh Kumar. The examination commenced on Sunday and is being conducted in 271 cities across more than 447 centers from May 21 to 25, spanning three shifts.
During the first shift, 87,879 candidates were scheduled to take the exam, followed by 87,903 students in the second shift. The third shift, organized in 458 centers, saw 89,466 students participate in the examination. The UGC Chairman highlighted that the 76 percent attendance on the first day marked a significant increase compared to last year’s attendance of around 62 percent.
Although there were minor delays in the start of the exam at approximately 12 centers, accounting for two percent of the total, due to reasons such as power fluctuations and staggered entry protocols, the exam was successfully completed. Measures have been implemented to address such situations in the future, including the provision of basic amenities such as water, refreshments, covered shelters, and waiting areas for candidates and their accompanying parents or guardians.
Efforts have been made to ensure a smoother experience for CUET-UG participants, with regular updates provided to candidates and their families regarding any delays in exam commencement. Administrative measures and cooperation with traffic police have been initiated in various cities to minimize traffic congestion around exam centers.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) and the UGC are actively working to issue admit cards for the second phase of the examination (May 25-28) by the late night of May 22 or May 23. Additionally, city information slips for the third phase (May 29 – June 2) will be announced on May 23, as per the authorities.
As the CUET-UG progresses, the UGC Chairman assures that continuous efforts will be made to enhance the overall experience for students appearing for the examination.
