Balancing Class 12 board exams with CUET 2026 preparation may seem daunting—but it’s absolutely possible with the right approach. Boards test your subject knowledge, while CUET focuses on your speed, accuracy, and aptitude. If you plan now (with 9–10 months left), you can ace both without burning out.
This blog is based on insights from Surya Sir’s detailed session: How to manage CUET and boards? | Complete guide. Let’s break down how to prepare strategically.
1. Understand the Stakes Early
Most students underestimate the dual pressure of board exams and CUET. Remember:
- CUET scores matter for top-tier universities.
- Board percentages are still a critical baseline for admissions.
Hence, your CUET 2026 preparation strategy must balance both effectively.
2. Construct a Unified Study Schedule
Here’s how you can divide your time realistically in the next 9–10 months:
September – December 2025 (Foundation Phase):
- Boards Focus: Finish 60–70% of NCERT syllabus in school subjects.
- CUET Focus: Build basics in English, General Test, and practice MCQs for domain subjects.
January – February 2026 (Board Exam Phase):
- Give 70–80% time to board exam revision.
- Keep 1–1.5 hrs daily for CUET (mostly question bank practice & mocks).
March – May 2026 (CUET Intensive Phase):
- Once boards are over, shift 80% time to CUET prep.
- Take 1–2 mocks weekly and analyze deeply.
- Revise NCERT + domain-specific topics from a CUET perspective.
Sample Daily Routine (Current Phase – Sept 2025):
- Morning (2 hrs): Board syllabus chapter revision.
- Afternoon (1.5 hrs): CUET English/Reasoning.
- Evening (2 hrs): Board homework & PYQs.
- Night (1 hr): CUET mock drill (topic-wise).
This ensures momentum and prevents last-minute panic.
3. Dual-Track Practice: CUET + Boards
The smartest way to save time is leveraging overlaps:
- English: Grammar, Reading Comprehension, and Writing in boards helps directly in CUET Language section.
- Domain Subjects: NCERT prep for boards = CUET prep (Physics, Business Studies, Economics, Political Science, etc.).
- Reasoning & GK (CUET only): Dedicate 30–45 minutes daily.
This ensures you aren’t duplicating effort
4. Focused Weak-Area Revision
For Boards: Create short notes + flashcards for last-minute revision.
For CUET: Use Fundamakers CUET Question Bank to practice topic-wise questions (instead of random mocks) so you can target weak areas systematically.
Example: If you’re weak in “Blood Relations” for reasoning, dedicate 2–3 days to mastering it before moving on.
5. Strategic Time Management
Here’s a smart time split for the next 9 months:
- Sept – Dec 2025: 60% boards, 40% CUET.
- Jan – Feb 2026: 80% boards, 20% CUET.
- Mar – May 2026: 20% boards (light revision), 80% CUET.
Pro tip: Use Sundays as mock test + full analysis day.
6. Calm the Stress, Mindset Hacks
Managing both CUET and boards is mentally exhausting, so stress management is crucial:
- Pomodoro Technique: Study in 50-min sessions with 10-min breaks.
- Physical Movement: Light exercise or walks improve retention.
- Peer Pressure: Don’t compare scores—focus on progress.
- Consistency > Intensity: 4 focused hours daily is better than 10 distracted hours.
7. Video Insight: CUET + Board Strategy by Surya Sir
For an in-depth breakdown, watch the full video here:
Watch Now: How to Manage CUET and Boards? | Complete Guide
Free Personalized Counselling
Want a personalized roadmap that balances CUET and boards? Book your free-of-cost counselling session with FundaMakers and get a study plan tailored to your strengths, weaknesses, and timeline.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare for CUET and boards together?
Yes! With the right schedule, you can prepare for both. Many subjects overlap. Focus on NCERTs for boards and practice CUET question patterns simultaneously. For additional practice, check the FundaMakers CUET Question Bank.
2. How many hours should I study for CUET 2026 while preparing for boards?
Ideally, 5–6 hours daily, split between boards and CUET. During board exam months, boards take priority; after boards, shift more hours to CUET.
3. Which subjects overlap in CUET and board exams?
English, domain subjects (like Physics, Economics, Business Studies), and General Awareness often overlap. This makes preparation easier if you manage your time smartly.
4. Is CUET tougher than board exams?
Not necessarily, CUET is application and speed-based, while boards are knowledge and writing-based. With proper mock practice and question bank exposure, both can be managed effectively.
5. Do I need coaching to crack CUET along with boards?
Not mandatory, but structured guidance helps. Self-study plus expert mentorship (like FundaMakers’ free counselling) ensures balance and clarity.
Mastering CUET 2026 Without Sacrificing Boards
Managing CUET and boards together is 100% possible with planning, discipline, and guidance. Use the video insights, stick to a study schedule, and get your doubts cleared through personalized counselling. Success is about consistency, not chaos.
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