CUET UG 2025 Accountancy Paper: NTA offers retest option after exam pattern change, apply by today
In a significant move aimed at ensuring fairness and transparency, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced a retest option for candidates who appeared for the CUET UG 2025 Accountancy paper. This decision follows a sudden mid-exam pattern change that took many students by surprise. The retest is being offered as a corrective measure, and students must register by 1:00 PM today, May 23, 2025, to be eligible.
Why the Retest Was Announced
Between May 13 and May 16, 2025, thousands of students appeared for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) UG Accountancy paper. However, after these sessions, the NTA introduced a revised pattern for the same paper, introducing an optional unit alongside Unit V in the syllabus. This adjustment, although beneficial in the long term, left those who had already taken the exam at a potential disadvantage.
Recognizing the issue, the NTA decided to offer a retest for those who took the exam prior to the pattern revision. This move has been largely welcomed by students, parents, and educators alike, as it ensures a level playing field for all candidates.
What Has Changed in the Exam Pattern?
The original Accountancy paper required students to answer questions from Unit V without any alternatives. The revised version, which took effect from May 22, allows students to choose between Unit V and an optional unit. This change was introduced to give students greater flexibility and better reflect the diverse curricula of various school boards.
However, implementing such a change mid-cycle created inconsistency in the assessment method. As a result, students who took the paper earlier may not have had the same opportunity to showcase their strengths, prompting the NTA to act swiftly.
Retest: A One-Time Opportunity
The retest is a one-time opportunity for affected students. However, it comes with important conditions:
- Final Score Policy: If a student chooses to take the retest, their new score will be considered final—regardless of whether it is higher or lower than the original score. This means that once the retest is attempted, the previous performance will no longer be valid.
- Application Deadline: Students must express their interest in appearing for the retest by 1:00 PM today. The application can be submitted through a link on the NTA’s official website (https://exams.nta.ac.in/CUET-UG/).
- Non-Attendance Clause: If a student opts in for the retest but fails to appear, they will be marked ‘ABSENT’, and no marks will be awarded for that subject. This clause is non-negotiable.
How to Apply for the Retest
To apply for the retest, students should:
- Visit the official CUET UG website: cuet.nta.nic.in
- Click on the link for “Accountancy Retest Consent Form”
- Enter the required credentials (application number, date of birth, etc.)
- Submit the consent form before the 1:00 PM deadline
Students who do not wish to retake the exam need not take any action. Their original marks from the May 13–16 attempt will automatically be considered final.
Mixed Reactions from Students and Parents
The announcement has drawn a mixed response from students. Some are relieved at the opportunity to improve their scores under the updated format. Others feel pressured by the short deadline and the risks associated with retaking the exam.
“I’m glad they’re offering a second chance, but I’m also nervous. What if my new score is lower?” said Ananya Sharma, a CUET aspirant from Delhi. “It’s a tough decision to make in less than 24 hours.”
Parents have echoed similar concerns, particularly about the lack of clarity around the new exam date, venue, and logistics. However, the NTA has assured that these details will be shared well in advance once the list of consenting candidates is finalized.
Experts Support the Move
Education experts have largely supported the NTA’s decision, citing fairness and equity as the primary motivations.
“This is a responsible step from the NTA. When you make a significant change in the middle of an ongoing exam cycle, it is only fair to offer students the option to align with the new structure,” said Prof. Rajiv Menon, an education policy analyst. “However, the agency must ensure that students receive ample time and support before the retest.”
What Should Students Do Now?
For students still weighing their options, the key lies in honest self-assessment. If you felt confident in your original performance and believe you showcased your full potential, it may be wise to retain your initial score. But if you believe the revised pattern would give you a better shot, the retest could be your chance to improve.
Regardless of the choice, students must act quickly. The deadline is just hours away, and once the window closes, the decision is final.
Final Words
The CUET UG 2025 Accountancy paper retest initiative is an important example of responsive policy-making in India’s competitive education landscape. While the circumstances that led to it were not ideal, the NTA’s decision to offer a second chance highlights a commitment to fairness and academic integrity.
Students should make their decision calmly but swiftly—and prepare accordingly if they choose to retake the exam.
