This comprehensive FAQ section addresses the most common questions from international students about CUET, studying in India, and the application process.

🎓 CUET and Application Process

General CUET Questions

Q: What is CUET and why is it important for international students? A: CUET (Common University Entrance Test) is India’s single largest entrance examination for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate programs in 54+ central universities and other participating institutions. For international students, it provides a standardized pathway to prestigious Indian universities with a single test score.

Q: Can international students apply for CUET from their home country? A: Yes, international students can apply online from their home country through the official CUET portal. The application process is completely online, and students can take the exam at designated international centers.

Q: How many international centers are available for CUET? A: CUET is conducted at 12 international centers across GCC countries and Jordan:

• UAE: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah
• Saudi Arabia: Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam
• Qatar: Doha
• Kuwait: Kuwait City
• Bahrain: Manama
• Oman: Muscat, Salalah
• Jordan: Amman

Q: When is CUET conducted for international students? A: CUET is conducted annually during May-June. International students appear for the exam simultaneously with Indian students at designated international centers. The exact dates are announced on the official CUET website.

Application Questions

Q: What documents are required for CUET application? A: Essential documents include:

• Valid passport (all pages)
• Recent passport-size photographs
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• AIU equivalence certificate (if applicable)
• Language proficiency scores (if required)
• Personal and contact information

Q: How do I select subjects for CUET UG? A: Subject selection should be based on:

• Desired university program requirements
• Your academic strengths
• Career goals
• University-specific subject combinations Consult university admission guidelines for specific subject requirements.

Q: Can I change my selected subjects after application? A: Subject changes are allowed only during the correction window, typically announced in April. Limited changes are permitted based on availability and university requirements.

Q: What is the application fee for international students? A: The fee structure includes:

• Registration Fee: INR 650 (USD 8.85 / AED 32.50)
• Per Subject Fee: INR 750 (USD 10.20 / AED 37.50)
• Processing Fee: INR 500 (USD 6.80 / AED 25.00)

📚 Academic and Eligibility

Eligibility Questions

Q: Who is eligible to apply as an international student? A: International students eligible to apply include:

• Foreign Nationals (non-Indian passport holders)
• Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)
• Persons of Indian Origin (PIO)
• Overseas Citizens of India (OCI)
• Students from international school systems

Q: Are 12th-grade qualifications from my country recognized in India? A: Most international qualifications are recognized, including:

• Cambridge International (IGCSE, A-Levels)
• International Baccalaureate (IB Diploma)
• American High School Diploma
• National curricula of GCC countries
• However, AIU (Association of Indian Universities) equivalence may be required.

Q: Do I need an AIU equivalence certificate? A: AIU equivalence certificates are required for:

• Students from non-standard international boards
• Qualifications not automatically recognized
• Specific professional programs Many standard international qualifications (IB, A-Levels) are automatically recognized.

Q: What are the minimum academic requirements? A: Minimum requirements typically include:

• Completed 12th grade or equivalent
• 45-50% aggregate marks (varies by university)
• Required subjects for chosen program
• Age limit usually 17-25 years (varies by program)

Academic Preparation

Q: How should I prepare for CUET from my home country? A: Preparation strategies include:

• Study NCERT textbooks (recommended by NTA)
• Practice sample papers and mock tests
• Focus on subjects relevant to your chosen program
• Use online preparation resources
• Join online study groups or forums

Q: Are CUET preparation materials available for international students? A: Yes, preparation resources include:

• Official CUET website with sample papers
• Online coaching platforms
• SATHEE portal with free preparation materials
• Previous year question papers
• Subject-specific study guides

Q: Can I take CUET in languages other than English? A: CUET is available in 13 languages including English. International students can choose English as their medium of examination or select other available languages.

💰 Fees and Financial Information

Tuition and Living Costs

Q: What is the cost of studying in India for international students? A: Annual costs typically include:

• Tuition Fees: INR 300,000-800,000 (USD 4,084-10,890)
• Hostel/PG: INR 60,000-240,000 (USD 817-3,267)
• Living Expenses: INR 100,000-200,000 (USD 1,361-2,722)
• Total Annual Cost: INR 460,000-1,277,000 (USD 6,262-17,383)

Q: Are there scholarships available for international students? A: Yes, scholarship opportunities include:

• ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations) scholarships
• Specific university scholarships for international students
• Merit-based scholarships
• Country-specific bilateral agreements
• Research fellowships for postgraduate students

Q: How can I pay tuition fees from my home country? A: Payment methods include:

• International credit/debit cards
• Wire transfers through banks
• Online payment gateways
• Foreign currency exchange services
• Educational loans from home country banks

Payment-Related Questions

Q: Can I pay CUET fees in my local currency? A: Yes, payment gateway supports multiple currencies:

• UAE Dirham (AED)
• Saudi Riyal (SAR)
• Qatari Riyal (QAR)
• Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD)
• Bahraini Dinar (BHD)
• Omani Rial (OMR)
• Jordanian Dinar (JOD)

Q: Are there additional charges for currency conversion? A: Banks and payment gateways may charge:

• Currency conversion fees (1-3%)
• Transaction processing fees
• Bank transfer charges
• These vary by bank and payment method.

🛂 Visa and Immigration

Student Visa Questions

Q: When should I apply for a student visa? A: Apply for student visa after:

• Receiving confirmed admission offer
• Paying first-year tuition fees
• Receiving admission confirmation letter
• Typically 2-3 months before course start date

Q: What documents are required for student visa? A: Required documents include:

• Valid passport (6+ months validity)
• Admission letter from Indian university
• Academic certificates and transcripts
• Proof of financial support
• Medical fitness certificate
• Police clearance certificate
• Passport-size photographs

Q: How long does student visa processing take? A: Processing times vary by country:

• UAE, Qatar, Oman: 5-7 working days
• Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain: 7-10 working days
• Expedited processing available with additional fees

Q: Can I work part-time on a student visa? A: Regulations for part-time work:

• Generally not permitted for most student visas
• Research students may have limited work opportunities
• Internships may be allowed with university approval
• Check specific visa conditions for your country

Post-Arrival Questions

Q: What is FRRO registration? A: FRRO (Foreigner Regional Registration Office) registration is:

• Mandatory for all international students staying > 6 months
• Required within 14 days of arrival
• Involves biometric registration
• Valid for entire course duration

Q: What medical tests are required? A: Medical requirements include:

• Medical fitness certificate from home country
• HIV test (required for student visa)
• Chest X-ray for TB screening
• Vaccination records
• Some universities require additional medical tests

🏠 Accommodation and Living

Housing Questions

Q: What accommodation options are available for international students? A: Accommodation options include:

• University hostels (most common and recommended)
• Private PG accommodations
• Shared apartments
• Service apartments
• Homestays (limited availability)

Q: How much does accommodation cost? A: Monthly accommodation costs:

• University Hostels: INR 5,000-20,000 (USD 68-272)
• PG Accommodations: INR 8,000-25,000 (USD 109-341)
• Shared Apartments: INR 15,000-40,000 (USD 204-545)

Q: Are university hostels safe for international students? A: University hostels provide:

• 24/7 security
• Wardens and staff support
• Mess facilities
• Study areas
• Medical facilities
• Generally considered safe and convenient

Daily Life Questions

Q: What is the food like for international students? A: Food options include:

• University mess with diverse cuisine
• Halal food available in most institutions
• International food courts in major cities
• Cafeterias with multiple food options
• Self-cooking facilities in some accommodations

Q: Will I face language barriers in India? A: Language considerations:

• English is widely spoken in educational institutions
• Hindi helps for daily interactions
• Regional languages vary by state
• Most universities have English as medium of instruction
• International student offices provide language support

Q: How do I manage banking and finances in India? A: Banking options include:

• Open local bank account with passport and visa
• Use international credit/debit cards
• ATM access with international cards
• Online banking services
• Mobile payment apps (limited for international students)

🎯 Academic Life and Support

University Life Questions

Q: What is the academic environment like in Indian universities? A: Academic features include:

• Rigorous academic standards
• Diverse student population
• Experienced faculty members
• Research opportunities
• Cultural and extracurricular activities
• Focus on theoretical and practical knowledge

Q: What support services are available for international students? A: Support services include:

• International student offices
• Academic counseling
• Mental health support
• Career guidance
• Language support programs
• Cultural adaptation programs

Q: How do I handle academic difficulties? A: Academic support resources:

• Faculty consultation hours
• Tutoring services
• Study groups
• Academic advisors
• Online learning resources
• Peer mentoring programs

Cultural Adaptation Questions

Q: How can I adapt to Indian culture? A: Adaptation strategies:

• Participate in orientation programs
• Join international student associations
• Learn about local customs and traditions
• Be open-minded and respectful
• Connect with other international students
• Explore your local area safely

Q: Is India safe for international students? A: Safety considerations:

• University campuses generally very safe
• 24/7 security in most institutions
• Emergency helplines available
• International student support networks
• Safe accommodation options
• Regular safety briefings and updates

📞 Communication and Technology

Connectivity Questions

Q: How can I stay connected with family back home? A: Communication options:

• Free Wi-Fi on most campuses
• International calling apps (WhatsApp, Skype)
• Local SIM cards for mobile communication
• Video calling facilities
• Email and social media access

Q: What about internet and phone services? A: Communication infrastructure:

• High-speed internet on campus
• Mobile networks with good coverage
• Affordable data plans
• International calling packages
• Multiple service providers to choose from

🏥 Healthcare and Wellness

Medical Questions

Q: What healthcare facilities are available? A: Healthcare services include:

• University medical centers
• Hospital tie-ups for emergencies
• Insurance coverage requirements
• 24/7 medical emergency services
• Mental health counseling
• Pharmacy services on campus

Q: Is health insurance mandatory? A: Health insurance requirements:

• Mandatory for all international students
• Minimum coverage of INR 500,000 (USD 6,800)
• Coverage for hospitalization and emergencies
• Can be purchased through university or private providers

📅 Important Dates and Deadlines

Timeline Questions

Q: What are the key dates for international students? A: Important dates typically include:

• February-March: CUET registration and application
• April: Correction window
• May-June: CUET examination
• July: Result declaration
• August-September: University counseling and admissions
• September-October: Visa application and travel

Q: When should I start the application process? A: Recommended timeline:

• 6-8 months before: Research universities and programs
• 4-6 months before: Prepare documents and start application
• 2-3 months before: CUET registration and preparation
• 1-2 months before: Visa application process

🆘 Emergency and Support

Emergency Contacts

Q: Who should I contact in case of emergency? A: Emergency contacts include:

• University International Office: First point of contact
• Indian Embassy: Consular assistance
• Home Country Embassy: National assistance
• Emergency Services: Police 100, Ambulance 108
• University Helpline: Available 24/7

Q: What support is available for mental health? A: Mental health resources:

• University counseling centers
• Trained mental health professionals
• Peer support groups
• Crisis helplines
• International student support networks

📊 Success Tips and Advice

General Advice

Q: What are the keys to success as an international student in India? A: Success factors include:

• Academic Preparation: Prepare thoroughly for CUET
• Cultural Adaptation: Be open to new experiences
• Time Management: Balance academics and personal life
• Network Building: Connect with peers and faculty
• Health Management: Maintain physical and mental health
• Financial Planning: Budget wisely and plan ahead

Q: How can I make the most of my time in India? A: Maximizing your experience:

• Participate in cultural activities
• Travel and explore different regions
• Learn about Indian history and traditions
• Build lifelong friendships
• Focus on academic excellence
• Plan for future career opportunities

📚 Additional Resources

Helpful Websites

• Official CUET Portal: https://cuet.nta.nic.in/
• NTA Website: https://nta.ac.in
• Indian Visa Online: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in
• AIU Website: https://www.aiu.ac.in
• Study in India: https://www.studyinindia.gov.in

Contact Information

General Queries:

• Email: international@cuet-support.in
• Phone: +91-XXXXXXXXXX
• WhatsApp Support: Available in multiple languages

Regional Support:

• Middle East: Country-specific coordinators available
• Southeast Asia: Regional representatives
• Other Regions: Contact international student office