CUET decoded
q What are the sections of the CUET exam? How does one choose domain subjects and is it necessary to take the general test?
The Common University Entrance Test or CUET is conducted by the National Testing Agency for admission to Indian universities. It has three sections: language, domain subject and general test. The first section, which evaluates language proficiency, has two parts. Section 1A is mandatory and can be sat in one of 13 Indian languages, including Hindi, English and Bengali. It focuses on reading comprehension and vocabulary. Section 1B is optional and offers 20 other languages, including French and Japanese, allowing students to select a second language that aligns with their academic goals or programme requirements.
The second section of CUET focuses on domain-specific subjects. Students must select domain subjects based on the courses and universities they are applying to. There are 29 domain subjects, including physics, biology, mathematics, history, psychology and economics. Choosing the right domain subjects is essential to qualify your desired university programme.
The last section, the general test, assesses general knowledge, logical reasoning, quantitative aptitude and numerical ability.
To select subjects for CUET, begin by reviewing the programme requirements of the universities you are interested in. Universities have varying CUET requirements. For example, a bachelor’s degree in environmental science at one university may require students to sit for the domain subjects biology and chemistry, to prove that they have a sound understanding of natural sciences. Another institution might prioritise interdisciplinary skills, requiring students to take both biology and the general test. Other courses may have more flexible requirements, such as students having to take only the general test.
Doctor beyond borders
q Where can I study medicine outside India, and what are the approximate costs associated with studying medicine in these countries?
Many countries provide opportunities with more accessible entry requirements than medical colleges in India. The UK, Canada, Australia as well as several European nations such as Poland, Hungary and Germany are popular alternatives. These countries provide high-quality medical education with globally-recognised degrees. Universities in Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland and Hungary, offer English-taught programmes with less competitive entry requirements and lower tuition fees than those in the UK or Canada.
The cost of studying medicine abroad can vary significantly based on the country and university. Here is a general overview: in the UK it typically ranges between £25,000 and £45000 per year (approximately ₹27 to ₹50 lakh), making it one of the more expensive options. In Canada, tuition fees
range from CAD 30,000 to CAD 80,000 per year (around ₹18 to ₹48 lakh).
In Australia, annual costs are about AUD 60,000 to AUD 90,000 (approximately ₹33 to ₹50 lakh). Countries such as Poland and Hungary offer relatively affordable medical programmes. Tuition fees in these countries generally range between €5,000 and €15,000 per year (around ₹4.5 to ₹13 lakh).
Nina Mukherji is a career counsellor and certified psychometric assessor. She conducts workshops in various areas for students. Mail your queries to telegraphyou@gmail.com with “Ask Nina”in the subject line. Don’t forget to add the name of your school or college and a contact number
Last updated on 03 Dec 2024
