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What’s in the CUET Chemistry syllabus? Is it the same as NCERT? How should you plan your preparation to score well in the Chemistry section of CUET?
If you're asking yourself these questions, you're not alone! Thousands of students preparing for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) wonder the same every year. Chemistry can be a scoring subject if you understand the syllabus clearly and stick to the right resources.
Just like Chemistry, other CUET domain subjects like Physics and Mathematics also follow the NCERT Class 12 curriculum. So if you're preparing for multiple science subjects, make sure to check out:
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the complete Chemistry CUET syllabus, highlight the most important topics, and give you a clear idea of what to expect in the exam. Whether you're aiming for a central university or just want to boost your overall CUET score, understanding the Chemistry syllabus is your first step in the right direction.
Let’s break it down in the simplest way possible—no complex terms, just what you really need to know
Download the “Chemistry” CUET 2025 Syllabus
The Chemistry CUET syllabus is based mainly on the NCERT curriculum for Classes 11 and 12, which means if you’ve studied Chemistry in school, you’re already on the right track. The syllabus is designed to test your understanding of basic concepts, application skills, and logical reasoning in Chemistry.
To help you prepare better, the syllabus is usually divided into three main parts:
Unit I: Solutions
Types of solutions, expression of concentration of solutions of solids in liquids, solubility of gases in liquids, solid solutions, Raoult's law,
Colligative properties - relative lowering of vapour pressure, elevation of boiling point, depression of freezing point, osmotic pressure, determination of molecular masses using colligative properties, abnormal molecular mass, Van't Hoff factor.
Unit II: Electrochemistry
Redox reactions, EMF of a cell, standard electrode potential, Nernst equation and its application to chemical cells, Relation between Gibbs energy change and EMF of a cell, conductance in electrolytic solutions, specific and molar conductivity, variations of conductivity with concentration, Kohlrausch's Law, electrolysis and law of electrolysis (elementary idea), dry cell-electrolytic cells and Galvanic cells, lead accumulator, fuel cells, corrosion.
Unit III: Chemical Kinetics
Rate of a reaction (Average and instantaneous), factors affecting rate of reaction: concentration, temperature, catalyst; order and molecularity of a reaction, rate law and specific rate constant, integrated rate equations and half-life (only for zero and first-order reactions), the concept of collision theory (elementary idea, no mathematical treatment), activation energy, Arrhenius equation.
Unit IV: d and f Block Elements
General introduction, electronic configuration, occurrence and characteristics of transition metals, general trends in properties of the first-row transition metals – metallic character, ionization enthalpy, oxidation states, ionic radii, colour, catalytic property, magnetic properties, interstitial compounds, alloy formation, preparation and properties of K2Cr2O7 and KMnO4. Lanthanoids - Electronic configuration, oxidation states, chemical reactivity and lanthanoid contraction and its consequences. Actinoids - Electronic configuration, oxidation states and comparison with lanthanoids.
Unit V: Coordination Compounds
Coordination compounds - Introduction, ligands, coordination number, colour, magnetic properties and shapes, IUPAC nomenclature of mononuclear coordination compounds. Bonding, Werner's theory, VBT, and CFT; structure and stereoisomerism, importance of coordination compounds (in qualitative analysis, extraction of metals and biological system).
Unit VI: Haloalkanes and Haloarenes
Nomenclature, nature of C–X bond, physical and chemical properties, optical rotation mechanism of substitution reactions. Haloarenes: Nature of C–X bond, substitution reactions (Directive influence of halogen in monosubstituted compounds only). Uses and environmental effects of dichloromethane, trichloromethane, tetrachloromethane, iodoform, freons, and DDT.
Unit VII: Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers
Alcohols: Nomenclature, methods of preparation, physical and chemical properties (of primary alcohols only), identification of primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols, mechanism of dehydration, uses with special reference to methanol and ethanol. Phenols: Nomenclature, methods of preparation, physical and chemical properties, acidic nature of phenol, electrophilic substitution reactions, uses of phenols. Ethers: Nomenclature, methods of preparation, physical and chemical properties, uses.
Unit VIII: Aldehydes, Ketones and Carboxylic Acids
Aldehydes and Ketones: Nomenclature, nature of carbonyl group, methods of preparation, physical and chemical properties, mechanism of nucleophilic addition, reactivity of alpha hydrogen in aldehydes, uses.
Carboxylic Acids: Nomenclature, acidic nature, methods of preparation, physical and chemical properties, uses.
Unit IX: Amines
Amines: Nomenclature, classification, structure, methods of preparation, physical and chemical properties, uses, identification of primary, secondary and tertiary amines. Diazonium salts: Preparation, chemical reactions and importance in synthetic organic chemistry.
Unit X: Biomolecules
Carbohydrates - Classification (aldoses and ketoses), monosaccharides (glucose and fructose), D-L configuration oligosaccharides (sucrose, lactose, maltose), polysaccharides (starch, cellulose, glycogen); Importance of carbohydrates. Proteins -Elementary idea of - amino acids, peptide bond, polypeptides, proteins, structure of proteins - primary, secondary, tertiary structure and quaternary structures (qualitative idea only), denaturation of proteins; enzymes. Hormones - Elementary idea excluding structure. Vitamins - Classification and functions. Nucleic Acids: DNA and RNA
Understanding the topic-wise weightage of the CUET Chemistry syllabus helps you focus on the most important chapters and manage your time effectively. While the exact marks distribution may vary slightly each year, based on previous trends and exam patterns, here’s an estimated weightage of each unit to guide your preparation:
Unit I: Solutions
This unit covers colligative properties, Raoult’s law, and calculations involving molarity and molecular mass. Since numericals are commonly asked from this topic, expect 1–2 questions.
Weightage: 8–10%
Unit II: Electrochemistry
A concept-heavy chapter that includes redox reactions, EMF, and electrolysis. Numericals based on Nernst Equation and conductivity are also frequent.
Weightage: 10–12%
Unit III: Chemical Kinetics
You can expect questions on reaction rate, order, molecularity, and integrated rate equations (especially first-order). It’s one of the most scoring topics.
Weightage: 6–8%
Unit IV: d and f Block Elements
This topic is mostly theory-based but includes trends and compound properties (KMnO₄, K₂Cr₂O₇). Often asked in MCQs, especially around lanthanoid contraction and oxidation states.
Weightage: 6–8%
Unit V: Coordination Compounds
One of the most important chapters in inorganic chemistry. Topics like isomerism, VBT, CFT, and IUPAC naming are key. Almost always asked in the exam.
Weightage: 10–12%
Unit VI: Haloalkanes and Haloarenes
Focuses on substitution reactions and environmental effects. Mechanisms and directive influence are common question areas.
Weightage: 6–8%
Unit VII: Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers
Very scoring if you’ve mastered reaction mechanisms and preparation methods. Phenol’s acidic nature and electrophilic substitution are often asked.
Weightage: 6–8%
Unit VIII: Aldehydes, Ketones and Carboxylic Acids
This unit carries significant weight. Reactions of carbonyl compounds and mechanisms like nucleophilic addition are frequent topics.
Weightage: 8–10%
Unit IX: Amines
Understanding the types of amines, their preparation, and their reactions is crucial. Questions often include diazonium salts and conversions.
Weightage: 6–8%
Unit X: Biomolecules
Though short, this chapter is a regular in CUET papers. Expect fact-based questions on carbohydrates, proteins, enzymes, and vitamins.
Weightage: 4–6%
Did you know that scoring well in Chemistry through CUET can open the door to several exciting and future-proof careers?
If you enjoy Chemistry and are preparing for the CUET, you're already building a strong foundation for a range of science-based courses and professions. The topics in the CUET Chemistry syllabus—like Organic Chemistry, Chemical Reactions, Coordination Compounds, and Electrochemistry—are not just important for exams but also form the basis for many higher education and career paths. Let’s explore some popular career options you can consider after qualifying for CUET with a strong performance in Chemistry:
BSc Chemistry / BSc (Hons) Chemistry
This is the most direct path for Chemistry lovers. With this degree, you can explore careers in research labs, chemical manufacturing industries, quality control, and even education. You can also pursue higher studies like an MSc or a PhD in Chemistry.
Pharmaceutical Industry
A strong grip on organic and inorganic chemistry is essential in pharmacy. After pursuing a BPharm or BSc in Pharmaceutical Sciences, you can work in drug formulation, clinical research, or regulatory affairs.
Biochemistry and Biotechnology
If you’re interested in both biology and chemistry, this is the perfect combination. Courses like BSc in Biochemistry or Biotechnology lead to careers in medical research, diagnostics, and the biotech industry.
Environmental Science
With increasing focus on sustainability, chemistry plays a key role in pollution control, green technology, and waste management. A degree in Environmental Science can help you work with NGOs, government bodies, or environmental consultancy firms.
Food Science and Technology
Chemistry is deeply involved in food preservation, flavour development, and quality testing. A BSc in Food Technology or Food Chemistry can lead to jobs in food safety labs, product development, or the FSSAI.
Industrial Chemistry and Material Science
You can also opt for courses in Industrial Chemistry or Material Science. These fields involve designing new materials and industrial products used in electronics, construction, and energy sectors.
Teaching and Academic Research
If you enjoy explaining concepts and helping others learn, you can pursue a career in teaching. After completing a BSc and MSc in Chemistry, you can clear exams like NET or SET and become a lecturer or researcher.
Competitive Exams and Government Jobs
A Chemistry background is useful for various government exams like CSIR NET, UPSC (with science optional), SSC, and even scientific posts in DRDO, ISRO, and BARC.
The Chemistry CUET syllabus isn’t just about passing an exam—it’s a stepping stone to a wide range of exciting and meaningful careers. Whether you're passionate about research, healthcare, environment, or industry, Chemistry can be your pathway to success.
Feeling overwhelmed by the Chemistry CUET syllabus? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! A smart study plan can make even the most complex topics manageable. Whether you're starting early or catching up, this easy-to-follow Chemistry CUET study plan will help you stay focused, organised and confident.
Let’s break it down into 4 weeks, covering theory, revision, and practice—perfect for focused CUET preparation.
Week 1: Build Your Base with Physical Chemistry
Topics to Cover:
Study Tips:
Goal by end of week: Complete all three units with basic numericals and short revision notes.
Week 2: Strengthen Inorganic Chemistry
Topics to Cover:
Study Tips:
Goal by end of week: Be confident with theoretical questions and memory-based topics.
Week 3: Dive into Organic Chemistry
Topics to Cover:
Study Tips:
Goal by end of week: Be exam-ready with strong reaction-based problem-solving skills.
Week 4: Final Topics + Full Revision
Topics to Cover:
Study Tips:
Goal by end of week: Solidify your preparation with mock analysis and topic-wise recap.
Bonus Tips for Success in CUET Chemistry
You don’t need to study 10 hours a day to crack CUET Chemistry. What matters is consistency, clarity, and smart revision. This study plan is flexible—feel free to adjust the pace based on your personal schedule.
The CUET Chemistry syllabus includes Class 12 topics from NCERT, such as:
Each unit covers fundamental theory, mechanisms, and problem-solving aspects crucial for competitive exams.
You can download the official Chemistry syllabus PDF from the NTA (National Testing Agency) website or the CUET official portal. Look for the 'Syllabus' section under the Chemistry subject code. It's typically available in PDF format for free.
The syllabus includes both Physical, Inorganic, and Organic Chemistry from Class 12. It covers theory, laws, formulas, reaction mechanisms, practical applications, and environmental relevance. The content aligns with NCERT guidelines, ensuring students are tested only on topics taught in school.
To prepare well:
Consistency and regular revision are key to success.
Yes, some recommended books include:
Always begin with NCERT and then move on to reference books
The CUET Chemistry exam is typically an objective-type test with multiple-choice questions (MCQs). The paper may contain:
Exam patterns can vary slightly, so refer to the latest official CUET notification.
Unlike NEET or JEE, which include Class 11 and 12 content, CUET Chemistry focuses only on the Class 12 NCERT syllabus. The level of difficulty is moderate and more aligned with school board exams, making it easier for students who’ve already studied NCERT thoroughly.
Important high-weightage chapters include:
These chapters are known for both numerical and concept-based questions.
You can find free and paid CUET Chemistry practice tests on:
Taking regular mock tests helps build speed and accuracy.
To strengthen your understanding:
Keep your preparation structured and revise consistently.
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