New Delhi: The National Testing Agency has issued a detailed advisory for students appearing in the upcoming Common University Entrance Test for Undergraduate programs in 2026. With the examination window scheduled to run from May 11 to May 31, the agency is preparing to host candidates across a vast network of centres within India and fifteen international cities. As the exam will be conducted through a computer-based test format, the latest guidelines aim to provide clarity on permissible items and the expected dress code to ensure a seamless experience for the thousands of students participating in this critical academic milestone.
According to the new directives, the agency recommends that candidates wear light-coloured clothing to the examination halls. While the preference is for lighter attire, the advisory acknowledges that some students may still require woollens, which are permitted provided the individuals report to their designated centres early enough to undergo thorough security frisking. Regarding footwear, the NTA suggests that students opt for standard shoes, slippers, or sandals with low heels, as these choices are less likely to cause delays during the mandatory security screenings conducted at the entry points of each venue.
In a move to respect the diverse cultural and religious backgrounds of the applicants, the NTA has clarified that articles or objects of faith will be allowed inside the testing environment. This specifically includes religious threads such as the ‘kalava’. However, the agency emphasizes that anyone wearing these items must arrive well in advance to facilitate the necessary frisking procedures. Additionally, students are permitted to carry transparent water bottles into the examination room to maintain their hydration levels during the computer-based sessions. By providing these clear parameters, the agency hopes to minimize administrative friction and allow candidates to focus entirely on their performance.
