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A simple guide to India’s major entrance exams

JEE, NEET, CUET, CLAT and design exams — what each is for.

By the Ghosla editorial team·Updated ·6 min read
Quick answer

India’s main entrance exams are JEE Main and Advanced for engineering, NEET-UG for medicine, CUET-UG for central universities, CLAT for law and NID DAT, UCEED or NIFT for design; always confirm dates and eligibility on each exam’s official website.

Key takeaways
  • Engineering: JEE Main / Advanced and state CETs
  • Medicine: NEET-UG
  • Central universities: CUET-UG
  • Law: CLAT · Design: NID DAT, UCEED, NIFT

Engineering

JEE Main is used for NITs, IIITs and many other colleges, and is also the first step towards JEE Advanced for the IITs. Several states run their own CETs.

Medicine

NEET-UG is used for MBBS, BDS and several other medical courses across India.

Central universities

CUET-UG is used for undergraduate admission to central universities and many other participating universities.

Law and design

CLAT is used by the National Law Universities and other colleges. Design aspirants usually take NID DAT, UCEED or NIFT exams.

Always check the official website

Exam dates, eligibility and patterns can change every year. Confirm the latest details on each exam’s official website before you apply.

Frequently asked questions

When should I start preparing?
Most students start seriously in Class 11 and take regular mock tests.
Is CUET needed for all universities?
CUET-UG is used by central universities and many participating universities; others run their own admissions.
Where do I find official dates?
On each exam’s official website — dates and patterns can change every year.

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