From kalava to low heels: CUET-UG 2026 dress code explained

New Delhi: The National Testing Agency has released an advisory detailing the dress code and permissible items for candidates appearing in the Common University Entrance Test Undergraduate (CUET-UG) 2026, scheduled to be held between May 11 and May 31 across India and in 15 cities abroad.

The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) is a standardised entrance examination conducted by the National Testing Agency for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate courses offered by universities and other participating institutions across India. All question papers are multiple-choice question (MCQ)-based, and the examination will be conducted in computer-based test (CBT) mode.

Dress code and allowed items

In its advisory issued on Thursday, the NTA said candidates will be permitted to carry transparent water bottles to the examination centres.

Candidates may also wear articles or objects of faith, provided they report to the examination centre well in advance to facilitate proper frisking procedures.

"It is emphasised that religious threads such as 'kalava' are allowed," the NTA said.

Footwear and clothing guidelines

The agency further advised candidates to preferably wear light-coloured clothing. Woollens may be worn if necessary, but candidates opting for such clothing have been asked to arrive early for frisking.

According to the advisory, normal shoes, slippers and low-heeled footwear are preferred for candidates appearing in the examination.