What exactly does the CUET Mathematics syllabus include?
How much of your Class 11 and 12 Maths is really important for CUET?
Which chapters should you focus on the most to score well?
If you're a student preparing for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) and planning to take Mathematics as one of your subjects, these questions have probably crossed your mind. With so much information out there, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry—we’re here to break it all down for you simply and clearly.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the complete CUET syllabus Mathematics, highlight the key topics you need to focus on, and give you tips to prepare effectively. Whether you're aiming for Delhi University, BHU, or any other top university, understanding the syllabus is your first step to success. So, let’s get started and take the confusion out of your CUET Maths preparation!
Download the “Mathematics” CUET 2025 Syllabus
To prepare well for the CUET Mathematics paper, it's important to understand the topic-wise distribution of the syllabus. The questions are mainly based on the NCERT curriculum of Classes 11 and 12, so you’ll find many familiar topics. However, knowing exactly what to study can help you focus better and save time.
Here’s a clear breakdown of the key topics that are commonly covered in the CUET Mathematics syllabus:
Unit I: Relations and Functions
Relations and Functions
Types of relations: Reflexive, symmetric, transitive and equivalence relations. one-to-one and onto functions.
Inverse Trigonometric Functions
Definition, range, domain, principal value branches. Graphs of inverse trigonometric functions.
Unit II: Algebra
Matrices
Concept, notation, order, equality, types of matrices, zero matrix, transpose of a matrix, symmetric and skew symmetric matrices. Operations on matrices: Addition, multiplication and multiplication with a scalar. Simple properties of addition, multiplication and scalar multiplication. Non-commutativity of multiplication of matrices and existence of non- zero matrices whose product is the zero matrix (restrict to square matrices of order 2). Invertible matrices and proof of the uniqueness of the inverse, if it exists (Here, all matrices will have real entries).
Determinants
Determinant of a square matrix (up to 3 × 3 matrices), minors, cofactors and applications of determinants in finding the area of a triangle. Adjoint and inverse of a square matrix. Consistency, inconsistency and number of solutions of systems of linear equations by examples, solving systems of linear equations in two or three variables (having unique solutions) using the inverse of a matrix.
Unit III: Calculus
Continuity and Differentiability
Continuity and differentiability, chain rule, derivatives of inverse trigonometric functions, like sin−1x, cos−1x and tan−1 x, derivative of implicit functions. Concepts of exponential, logarithmic functions. Derivatives of logarithmic and exponential functions. Logarithmic differentiation, a derivative of functions expressed in parametric forms. Second-order derivatives.
Applications of derivatives: Rate of change of quantities, increasing/decreasing functions, maxima and minima (first derivative test motivated geometrically and second derivative test given as provable tool). Simple problems (that illustrate basic principles and understanding of the subject as well as real-life situations).
Integrals
Integration as inverse process of differentiation.Integration of a variety of functions by substitution, by partial fractions and by parts, Evaluation of simple integrals of the following types and problems based on them.
∫dx/(x2+a2), ∫dx/(√x2±a2), ∫dx/(a2-x2),∫dx/(√a2-x2)
∫dx/(√ax2+bx+c),∫dx/(ax2+bx+c), ∫(px + q)dx/(√ax2+bx+c),∫(px + q)dx/(ax2+bx+c),
∫(√a2±x2) dx, ∫(√x2-a2) dx
Fundamental Theorem of Calculus (without proof).Basic properties of definite integrals and evaluation of definite integrals.
Applications of the Integrals
Applications in finding the area under simple curves, especially lines, circles/parabolas/ellipses(in standard form only)
Differential Equations
Definition, order and degree, general and particular solutions of a differential equation. Solutions of differential equations by method of separation of variables, solutions of homogeneous differential equations of first order and first degree. Solutions of linear differential equation of the type:
dy/dx+ Py = Q, where P and Q are functions of x or constants
dy/dx+ Px= Q, where P and Q are functions of y or constants
Unit IV: Vectors and Three-Dimensional Geometry
Vectors
Vectors and scalars, magnitude and direction of a vector. Direction cosines and direction ratios of a vector.Types of vectors (equal, unit, zero, parallel and collinear vectors), position vector of a point, negative of a vector, components of a vector, addition of vectors, multiplication of a vector by a scalar, position vector of a point dividing a line segment in a given ratio. Definition, Geometrical interpretation, properties and application of scalar (dot) product of vectors, vector(cross) product ofvectors.
Three-dimensional Geometry
Direction cosines and direction ratios of a line joining two points. Cartesian equation and vector equation of a line, skew lines, shortest distance between two lines. Angle between two lines.
Unit V:LinearProgramming
Introduction, related terminology such as constraints, objective function, optimization, graphical method of solution for problems in two variables, feasible and infeasible regions (bounded or unbounded), feasible and infeasible solutions, optimal feasible solutions (up to three non-trivial constraints).
Unit VI: Probability
Conditional probability, multiplication theorem on probability, independent events, total probability, Baye’s theorem. Random variable.
Each of these topics plays a role in the CUET exam, and their weightage may vary depending on the university or course you’re applying for. It’s a good idea to go through the past year's papers and mock tests to get a sense of which areas are most commonly tested.
When it comes to preparing for CUET 2025, understanding how the Mathematics syllabus is divided can give you a big advantage. The CUET Maths paper is neatly structured into two main sections: Section A and Section B, making it easier for students to plan their preparation.
Section A – Common Questions for All
Section A includes 15 questions, and this part is compulsory for all candidates. The questions in this section are designed to test your basic understanding of both Mathematics and Applied Mathematics. So, whether you've studied regular Maths or Applied Maths in school, this section ensures a level playing field for everyone.
Section B – Choice Between Mathematics and Applied Mathematics
Section B is further divided into two parts:
Section B1: Mathematics
This section contains 35 questions based purely on the Mathematics syllabus. However, you're only required to attempt 25 questions. These typically focus on core Maths topics like Algebra, Calculus, and Geometry.
Section B2: Applied Mathematics
Similarly, Section B2 also has 35 questions, but these are based on Applied Mathematics. Again, you’ll need to attempt only 25 questions. This section is ideal for students who studied Applied Maths in Class 12, with topics like Numerical Applications, Financial Mathematics, and Matrices used in real-world contexts.
Important Point to Remember:
You’ll need to choose either Section B1 or Section B2 based on the stream you've studied or feel more confident in. Choosing the right section can help you score higher and manage your time better during the exam.
Understanding the structure of the CUET Maths paper is just the first step. In the next sections, we’ll dive deeper into the unit-wise syllabus for both Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, so you’ll know exactly what to study and how to prepare smartly.
Preparing for the CUET Mathematics exam might feel challenging at first, but with the right strategy and a clear understanding of the syllabus, you can approach it with confidence. The key is to study smart—not just hard.To assist you in your preparation, consider utilizing the NCERT-based CUET UG Mock Test Paper. This resource offers practice questions aligned with the CUET syllabus, helping you familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and assess your readiness.
Here’s how you can make the most of the CUET Maths Syllabus 2025 in your preparation:
Understand the Syllabus Structure
Before anything else, go through the full syllabus carefully. Remember, the paper is divided into:
Choose Section B1 or B2 based on what you studied in school or feel more comfortable with. This helps avoid confusion and keeps your preparation focused.
Divide the Syllabus Unit-Wise
Once you've picked your section, break the syllabus down unit by unit. Create a study timetable where you give enough time to each topic. Focus more on high-weightage chapters, but don’t skip the easier ones—they can fetch quick marks.
Stick to NCERT Books First
The CUET syllabus is based mostly on NCERT Class 11 and 12 books. Make sure you’ve read all the examples, solved exercises and understood the concepts. NCERT forms the base of most questions in the exam.
Practise with CUET-Based Mock Tests
Practising mock tests is one of the best ways to test your preparation. It helps you:
Try to take full-length tests once a week and analyse your performance after each one.
Practise with CUET-Based Mock Tests
Practising mock tests is one of the best ways to test your preparation. It helps you:
Try to take full-length tests once a week and analyse your performance after each one.
Focus on Concepts, Not Just Formulas
Many students try to memorise formulas, but CUET also tests your application skills. Make sure you understand the “why” behind every formula and practise problems that involve real-world applications, especially if you choose Applied Mathematics.
Revise Regularly
Don’t leave revision until the last minute. Revise each topic after completing it, and keep a separate notebook for important formulas, shortcuts, and tricky questions.
Preparing with a smart plan and consistent effort can make a huge difference. Don’t stress about covering everything at once—go step by step, stick to the syllabus, and practise regularly. You’ve got this!
Also preparing for English or General Test?
If you're tackling more than just Maths for CUET 2025, you might find these helpful too:
The Mathematics syllabus for 2025 is divided into six major units: Relations and Functions, Algebra (Matrices and Determinants), Calculus (Differentiation, Integration, Applications, and Differential Equations), Vectors and Three-Dimensional Geometry, Linear Programming, and Probability. It includes both conceptual theory and application-based topics, aligned with the NCERT Class 12 Mathematics Syllabus.
You can download the official CUET syllabus PDF from the NTA's official website: https://cuet.nta.nic.in. Look for the "Syllabus" section on the homepage to access the most updated version.
The CUET syllabus mathematics includes:
Each topic has both theoretical and practical applications, important for solving real-world and academic problems.
The CUET UG Mathematics syllabus is crucial because it forms the foundation for undergraduate courses in engineering, economics, computer science, data science, and more. Understanding this syllabus helps students prepare for university-level mathematics and improves analytical and problem-solving skills.
Yes, you can find CUET Mathematics's previous year papers on:
These papers help you understand the exam pattern, question types, and difficulty level.
The CUET Maths syllabus is not updated frequently. It typically aligns with the Class 12 NCERT Syllabus. However, students should always refer to the latest official notification from NTA before starting their preparation.
To prepare effectively for CUET Mathematics:
The CUET Maths exam includes:
Some questions may be theory-based, while others will test application and calculation skills.
You can choose between Section B1 and B2 based on the university requirements or your own strengths.