Technical Glitch Delays CUET-UG Exam at Multiple Centres
The Common University Entrance Test Undergraduate (CUET-UG) 2026 witnessed disruptions at several examination centres after a technical glitch delayed the start of the examination. The National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts the exam, issued a clarification assuring students that necessary measures were taken immediately and that no candidate would be disadvantaged because of the issue.
According to reports, the technical problem occurred at the end of NTA’s technology partner, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), affecting the commencement of the examination at select centres across the country.
NTA Revises Exam Timings
Following the disruption, the NTA revised the schedule for the afternoon shift examination to accommodate affected candidates. Reports stated that the second shift, originally scheduled earlier in the day, was postponed and began at 4 PM to ensure smooth conduct of the test.
Officials said that examination authorities at the affected centres were instructed to make alternative arrangements and provide support to students facing inconvenience due to the delay.
The agency emphasized that the revised schedule was introduced to ensure fairness and minimize stress among candidates.
NTA Issues Clarification
In its official clarification, the National Testing Agency stated that the issue was technical in nature and occurred due to a system-related problem at certain centres. The agency assured students that corrective steps were taken immediately after the glitch was identified.
NTA also clarified that all affected candidates would receive adequate examination time and that efforts were made to ensure that the integrity of the examination process remained intact.
The agency urged students not to panic and advised them to rely only on official updates regarding examination schedules and related information.
Candidates Express Concerns
The delay led to anxiety among several students and parents who were present at the affected centres. Some candidates reportedly faced uncertainty regarding reporting times and examination schedules due to the sudden disruption.
Social media platforms also witnessed discussions from students sharing experiences related to technical issues, verification delays, and waiting periods at examination centres.
While many candidates appreciated the revised arrangements, others raised concerns regarding repeated technical challenges during large-scale entrance examinations.
CUET-UG Remains a Major National Examination
Introduced in 2022, CUET-UG serves as a common entrance examination for admission to undergraduate programs in central universities and several other participating institutions across India. The examination is conducted in multiple shifts and centres due to the large number of applicants appearing every year.
Given its scale, the exam requires extensive technological infrastructure and coordination among multiple agencies to ensure smooth operations.
Technical Challenges Continue to Draw Attention
The latest incident has once again highlighted the challenges involved in conducting large-scale computer-based examinations. In recent years, students have occasionally reported issues related to server delays, examination centre allocation, and technical disruptions during various national-level entrance tests.
Education experts believe that strengthening digital infrastructure, improving contingency planning, and enhancing real-time technical support can help reduce disruptions during future examinations.
Impact on Students
For many students, CUET-UG plays a crucial role in determining admission opportunities to higher education institutions. Any disruption during the examination process can create additional stress and uncertainty for candidates already facing competitive academic pressure.
The NTA’s assurance that affected students would not face any disadvantage has therefore been viewed as an important step toward maintaining confidence in the examination process.
Conclusion
The technical glitch that delayed CUET-UG 2026 at some examination centres created temporary disruption, but the National Testing Agency responded by revising schedules and assuring students of fair treatment. While the incident has raised questions about examination infrastructure and preparedness, authorities maintain that all necessary measures were taken to protect the interests of candidates.
