How to get admission in Delhi University via CUET | Avoid Common Mistakes

Delhi University admissions for 2025 are a highly competitive and complex process, especially with the introduction of the CUET (Common University Entrance Test) system. This guide explains the entire admission process in detail, highlights common mistakes students make, and offers tips to avoid them. Whether you think you already know the process or are just beginning your journey, this comprehensive overview will help you stay ahead and secure your seat in Delhi University.


Delhi University Admission 2025-2026: Eligibility Criteria
Program TypeAcademic RequirementsAdditional Criteria
Undergraduate (UG) CoursesClass 12th with minimum 60% aggregateSubject-specific requirements apply
Postgraduate (PG) CoursesBachelor’s degree with 55% minimumEntrance exam (DUET) for most courses
Professional Courses12th with 75% + (Science Stream)JEE Main/NEET scores accepted
Ph.D. ProgramsMaster’s degree with 60% + UGC-NETResearch proposal & interview
International StudentsEquivalent qualification from recognized boardValid student visa & eligibility certificate
Important: Subject-wise marks requirement may vary | Relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates as per University norms

When Does the Delhi University Admission Process Start?

Contrary to popular belief, the Delhi University admission process does not wait for your 12th board results. The admission portal usually opens even before the results are declared. For example, last year the portal was live by 28th May, while board exams continued till early June. This means you should be ready to apply immediately after your exams conclude. Delaying or waiting for results can cost you precious time.

The Common Seat Allocation System (CSAS) Portal

What is CSAS?

The Common Seat Allocation System (CSAS) is the single portal through which you apply to all Delhi University colleges. With around 75-80 colleges under Delhi University, you do not need to fill separate forms for each college. One application on the CSAS portal makes you eligible for all colleges and courses you qualify for.

Phase 1: Registration and Common Mistakes

Registration on the CSAS portal is the first and crucial step. Here, students often make mistakes that lead to immediate rejection of their forms. One of the biggest errors is incorrect Subject Mapping.

Understanding Subject Mapping

Subject mapping means aligning the subjects you studied in 12th with the subjects you choose in CUET and the course you want to apply for. For example, if you want to apply for Psychology Honours but have studied PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) in 12th, you must ensure that your CUET subject choices correspond only to the subjects studied in 12th.

If you wrongly choose a CUET subject that you did not study in 12th, your form will be rejected outright. The university strictly follows this rule, so it’s important to map your subjects correctly.

Category Certificates

If you belong to reserved categories like OBC (NCL) or EWS, your certificates must be updated and valid as of 31 March 2025. SC/ST candidates have no such compulsion, but having updated certificates is always recommended.

Free Tools to Help You with Admission

A free WhatsApp chatbot called College Dost is available to answer your queries related to colleges, courses, cutoffs, and more. It can provide a PDF with detailed information about top colleges accepting CUET scores, BTech options, and other career guidance. This tool is especially useful for science stream students looking for engineering or science courses.

Phase 2: Preference Sheet Filling

This is the most critical and often the most confusing part of the admission process. After your registration is accepted, you must fill out a preference sheet where you list colleges and courses in the order of your choice.

Common Mistakes in Preference Sheet

  • Listing only top colleges and ignoring backup options.
  • Not including alternative courses in case the first choice is not allotted.
  • Failing to understand that once a college is allotted, you cannot downgrade your preference later.

For example, if you only list B.Com Honours colleges expecting a high score and miss adding B.Com Programme or other related courses as backups, you risk not getting admission if your rank falls short.

How to Arrange Preferences?

Arrange your preferences from the most desired course and college to the least, including backup options to maximize your chances.

Personalized Preference Sheet Service

To avoid confusion and costly mistakes, you can purchase a personalized preference sheet for just ₹299, which will be emailed to you. This service helps you strategically list your preferences based on your expected scores and interests, saving you from expensive counseling fees charged elsewhere.

Phase 3: Seat Allocation and Fees

Once preferences are submitted, the seat allocation begins. Instead of cutoffs, Delhi University releases rounds of seat allotments. After each round, you will see which college and course you have been allotted.

Important Points About Seat Allocation

  • Once allotted a seat, you must pay the fees to confirm admission, even if you want to upgrade in the next round.
  • Upgrading means trying for a better college or course in subsequent rounds, but you can only do this if you have paid the fees of the previously allotted seat.
  • Keep aside at least ₹1500 to ₹2000 for initial fees and be prepared for more if you get upgraded to a more expensive college.

What if You Don’t Get a Seat?

After all rounds are over, a mop-up round is conducted where seats are allotted based on your 12th board marks. This is a last chance to get admission if you missed earlier rounds.


🎓 Delhi University Courses 2025-2026 (UG + PG Programs)
Faculty/StreamNo. of CoursesPopular Programs
Arts & Humanities60+BA (Hons) English, History, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology
Science85+B.Sc (Hons) Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Computer Science, Botany, Zoology
Commerce & Business45+B.Com (Hons), BBA, Business Economics, Financial Markets
Professional Courses55+LLB, B.Tech, B.Arch, Hotel Management, Journalism
Postgraduate Programs120+MA, M.Com, M.Sc, MBA, M.Tech, LLM
Interdisciplinary30+B.A. Prog, Physical Science, Applied Life Sciences
Note: Total 400+ courses across 90+ colleges | Subject combinations available | Certificate/Diploma courses not included

Real-Life Example: Avoiding Admission Mistakes

A student from Madhya Pradesh scored 780 out of 800 in CUET but ended up in a less preferred college simply because she did not have proper guidance and did not arrange her preferences correctly. She was happy to get into Delhi University but missed out on better colleges like Hansraj College, which she could have easily gotten with strategic preference filling.

People Asked about these question

  1. Can I get admission in DU without CUET?

    For regular UG and PG courses, CUET is mandatory.
    However, for DU SOL (School of Open Learning), admission to most courses is merit-based (based on your 12th marks), and CUET is not required.

  2. How to get admission in DU SOL?

    Admission is generally merit-based for UG courses; some PG courses may require CUET.
    Visit the official DU SOL website (sol.du.ac.in).
    Register online, fill out the application form, upload required documents, and pay the fee.

  3. What is the last date for DU SOL admission?

    The admission window for DU SOL generally opens in June and closes by August/September. For exact dates, check the official DU SOL website as they are updated every year.

  4. Can I get admission in DU with 300 marks in CUET?

    It depends on the course and college you are applying to, as well as the cut-off for that year. Top colleges and popular courses require higher CUET scores, but some options may be available for lower scores.

  5. What is the minimum percentage required in 12th for DU admission?

    The minimum percentage varies by course and category, usually ranging from 50% to 90%. However, CUET score is now the main criterion for regular courses.

  6. Can I get direct admission in DU without any entrance exam?

    No, for regular UG and PG courses, direct admission is not possible. CUET is compulsory.
    Only DU SOL and some special courses offer merit-based (direct) admission.

  7. What documents are required for DU admission?

    12th mark sheet/certificate
    Transfer certificate
    Passport-size photographs
    Photo ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)
    Category certificate (if applicable)
    CUET scorecard

  8. Is it possible to study at DU in distance/online mode?

    Yes, through DU SOL, you can pursue UG and PG courses in distance mode without attending regular classes.

  9. Is there any open admission process in DU?

    No open admission for regular courses; all admissions are through CUET and the CSAS portal. DU SOL offers open/merit-based admission for distance learning.

  10. Can I change my college after taking admission in DU?

    Yes, you can participate in subsequent seat allocation rounds to upgrade your college or course preference, as long as seats are available.

Conclusion

The Delhi University admission process through CUET is detailed and requires careful planning. From early registration to correct subject mapping, from filling a well-thought-out preference sheet to managing fees for seat confirmation—every step counts.

Remember these key takeaways:

  1. Start your preparation early—don’t wait for your 12th results.
  2. Map your subjects carefully to avoid rejection.
  3. Keep your category certificates updated.
  4. Use free tools like College Dost chatbot for guidance.
  5. Consider investing in a personalized preference sheet to maximize your chances.
  6. Keep funds ready for seat confirmation and possible upgrades.

With the right approach and timely actions, your journey to Delhi University can be smooth and successful.

🕒 Last Updated on: June 30, 2025

Dr Amit Desai

He is an admissions advisor with 12+ years of experience helping students secure spots in top Indian and international universities. He holds a Ph.D. in Education Counseling and is a certified career coach. Dr. Desai has been quoted in The Times of India and regularly conducts webinars on college admissions. He is dedicated to demystifying the admissions process for students and parents alike.

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