CUET UG 2026 Photo Mismatch Advisory by NTA

CUET (UG) 2026 Photo Mismatch Advisory: NTA Issues Urgent Notice for Candidates

CUET UG 2026 exam hall scene with ID verification highlighting NTA photo mismatch warning for candidates

Imagine reaching your CUET UG 2026 exam centre, fully prepared, only to be stopped at the gate because your photograph doesn’t match your ID proof. Sounds stressful, right?

To prevent such situations, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has released an important advisory addressing photo mismatches in CUET (UG) 2026 application forms. If you’ve registered for the exam, this update could make all the difference on exam day.

CUET (UG) 2026 Exam Dates and Registration Timeline

The Common University Entrance Test (CUET UG) 2026 is scheduled to be conducted from 11 May to 31 May, 2026.

Application Start Date: 03 January, 2026
Last Date to Apply: 04 February, 2026
Correction Window: 23–26 February, 2026

Aspirants who completed the CUET (UG) 2026 application process should now carefully review this advisory.

Why Has NTA Issued the CUET (UG) 2026 Photo Mismatch Advisory?

During verification, NTA identified that:

Some candidates used identity proofs other than Aadhaar Card
In several cases, the live photograph uploaded during registration did not match official records (UIDAI database)

This mismatch can lead to identity verification issues during the exam, which is why immediate action is required.

Who is Affected by the CUET (UG) 2026 Photograph Mismatch Issue?

You may be affected if you received an email from NTA regarding this issue. They will send an official mail in case of:

Your uploaded photo looks significantly different from your ID proof
You used non-Aadhaar identity documents
Your application involved unclear or incorrect photo capture

Note: If you received, you must act within the given deadline.

What Should CUET (UG) 2026 Candidates Do? Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Get a Verification Certificate

You must prepare a signed and attested certificate confirming your identity.

Step 2: Attestation Authorities

The certificate must be verified by School/College Principal or Headmaster or a Class-I Gazetted Officer, such as:

Tehsildar
SDM (Sub-Divisional Magistrate)
DM (District Magistrate)
Revenue Officer
Indian Embassy अधिकारी (for NRI candidates)

CUET UG 2026 verification certificate format for photo mismatch attestation by principal or gazetted officer

CUET (UG) 2026 Verification Certificate Attestation

Step 3: Attach a Recent Photograph

Affix a recent passport-size photograph

Ensure it is properly attested (signature partly on photo + certificate)

Step 4: Upload the Certificate (Important Deadline)

Upload Window: 07 to 10 April, 2026
Upload via the link sent to your registered email ID

File format: PDF only

Step 5: Carry Hard Copy to Exam Centre

You must bring the following to the exam centre:

Printed copy of the attested certificate
Present it during physical verification on exam day

Important Instructions to Avoid Disqualification

Do not ignore the advisory email from NTA
Ensure clear and accurate documentation
Upload within the strict deadline (10 April, 2026)
Carry all required documents on exam day

Failure to comply may result in denial of entry to the examination hall.

Final Thoughts

The CUET UG 2026 photograph mismatch advisory is a critical update that candidates must take seriously. A simple mismatch can create unnecessary stress or worse, prevent you from appearing for the exam. So, act promptly, follow the instructions carefully, and ensure your documents are perfectly aligned.