Is Applied Maths Compulsory for CUET? Know the Truth Before You Apply

Overview: Most of the students who are appearing for the CUET 2026 examination feel confused and ask, “Is Applied Maths compulsory for CUET or not?” If you’re wondering the same, don’t worry! In this blog, we have covered everything clearly and explained whether applied math is a must for CUET or not.

Students who are appearing for the CUET 2026 for the first time often have this doubt in mind: “Is Applied Maths compulsory for CUET or not?” So, before we clear this up, it’s essential to understand the structure of the CUET Maths exam.

First of all, you need to know that the Mathematics paper in CUET is divided into two sections – one for Core Mathematics and the other for Applied Mathematics. This means that students from both backgrounds (those who studied Mathematics in Class 12 and those who opted for Applied Mathematics) can take the exam according to their subject choice.

With this, let’s take a look at the CUET Maths exam pattern so that you’ll get a clear idea about the examination.

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CUET Mathematics Exam Pattern 2026

Maths is one of the most popular subjects in the CUET exam. As many students opt for it, understanding the CUET syllabus and exam pattern is crucial. Through this you can prepare effectively and score well.

The exam has two main sections:

• Section A (Common for Everyone)
• Section B (which has B1 and B2)

The Maths test will consist of one paper with a total of 50 questions, and you must attempt all 50 questions.

• Section A will have 15 questions. These will cover both Core Mathematics and Applied Mathematics. This part is compulsory for every student, which also answers a familiar doubt: Is applied maths compulsory for CUET? So, for Section A—yes, it is mandatory.
• Section B1 will include 35 questions only from Core Mathematics, and you have to attempt all 35.
• Section B2 will include 35 questions only from Applied Mathematics, and you must attempt all 35.

For Section B, you can choose to attempt either B1 or B2, depending on which subject you study or prefer.

Now that you know the exam pattern of CUET Maths, the next big question students ask is – Is Applied Maths Compulsory for CUET 2026? Let’s clear this doubt in detail so you can choose the right subjects for CUET and avoid any confusion while applying for your desired course.

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Is Applied Maths Compulsory for CUET 2026?

Do we need applied maths for CUET? No, Applied Mathematics is not compulsory for everyone who appears for the CUET exam. Whether you need it or not depends on the course you want to study and the university you choose to attend. This means that some students will need Applied Maths as a subject, while for others it will not be a requirement.

For example -

If you want to join special courses like B.A. (Hons.) at Delhi University, then Applied Maths is often required. Without it, you may not be allowed to apply for that course. On the other hand, if you plan to study courses like BBA programs, Applied Maths is usually not compulsory. You may choose other subjects instead.

This is why it is very important to review the eligibility rules of the course and the university you are interested in. Each university may have a different requirement.

In short, Applied Maths is only required for some courses, not for all. So, before choosing subjects and preparing for CUET 2026, you must read the rules carefully so that you know exactly what subjects are required for your dream course.

Who Should Choose Core Maths & Who Should Choose Applied Maths?

Many students get confused about which subject to choose for CUET 2026 – Core Mathematics or Applied Mathematics. You may also be asking, Is Applied Maths compulsory for CUET? The answer is no, it is not mandatory. You only need to choose the subject you studied in Class 12. However, it is still essential to know which option is right for your future course.

Who should choose Core Mathematics?

If you are planning to study courses that need a strong base in core maths, then you must choose Core Maths. Courses like:

• B.Sc. Mathematics
• B.Sc. Physics
• Computer Science
• Engineering
• Economics (Hons.) in some universities

These courses require higher-level mathematics, such as calculus, algebra, and trigonometry. If you enjoy solving tough sums and want to go into science or technical fields, Core Maths is the better choice.

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Who should choose Applied Mathematics?

If you studied Applied Mathematics in Class 12, you can choose the same for the CUET 2026 exam as well. This domain subject focuses on the practical applications of mathematics in real life. It covers complete topics such as statistics, probability, and financial mathematics.

Courses like:

• B.Com (Hons.)
• Business Studies
• Management courses
• Social Sciences
• Some Economics and Finance courses

Therefore, Applied Mathematics is a good choice for students interested in commerce, finance, or business-related fields.

So, is Applied Mathematics required for CUET exam? No, it is not mandatory. The choice between Core Maths and Applied Maths depends on your Class 12 subject and the college course you want to join. Always check the course eligibility before making a decision, so you don’t encounter any problems later.

Best Preparation Strategy for CUET Maths 2026

Preparing well for CUET Maths can be easy if you start on time and follow a brilliant plan. The best approach is to begin early, ideally six months before the exam or concurrently with your Class 12 studies. Good preparation means building strong basics, practising daily, and revising regularly.

Preparation Plan in Simple Steps:

Build a Strong Foundation

• Revise Class 11th and 12th concepts regularly.
• Begin with easier chapters to gain confidence.
• Strengthen formulas and solve simple exercises first.

Learn Each Topic in Detail

• Study every chapter carefully.
• Apply what you read to practice problems.
• Solve past CUET maths papers weekly.

Cover Advanced Topics and Weak Areas

• Give extra time to tough chapters.
• Attempt more practice sessions and short mock tests daily.

Mock Tests and Practice

• Take full-length practice/mock tests.
• Review all mistakes to spot weak areas.
• Focus on your speed and accuracy while solving the mock test.

Revision and Memory Tricks

• Use flashcards, formula sheets, or mind maps.
• Revise important CUET Math topics many times.

Final Exam Readiness

• Practice under real exam conditions.
• Manage time carefully and stay calm.

When preparing, students often ask, “Is applied maths compulsory for CUET?” Remember, it depends on the course and university. Focus on your goal course requirements while following this daily study plan. Doing so will boost your confidence and increase your chance of scoring high.

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Key Takeaways

To sum up, CUET 2026 offers every student the option to select either Core Maths or Applied Maths, based on their Class 12 studies and the course they intend to pursue. So, is Applied Maths compulsory for CUET? The answer is no. Thoughtful preparation and the right choice will decide your success.

• Select a subject based on your Class 12 background and your desired college course.
• Always check the eligibility rules of universities before applying.
• Use CUET sample papers, mock tests, and previous year question papers to practice.