Deciphering the CUET UG 2026 performance brackets is the first step toward building a realistic preference list. The normalized scores from the 2025-26 cycle indicate a significant "bunching" of candidates at the top end, meaning even a 2-mark difference can result in a shift of 500 ranks. Understanding where your raw and normalized scores place you within the university hierarchy is essential for successful admission.

Performance Brackets: Standard for Delhi University

The following table outlines the expected college and university allotments based on the 800-mark standard used for most Humanities and Commerce courses at DU:

Stream-Wise Safe Scores for Top Institutions

Safe scores vary significantly by stream due to the differing nature of domain subjects and the number of applicants. For 2026, the 50-compulsory-question rule has increased the pressure to maintain 100% accuracy:

• Humanities: To secure a top North Campus college for Political Science or Psychology, an aspirant must aim for a score of 760+ out of 800. Competition in these courses is traditionally the highest due to UPSC-oriented aspirants.
• Commerce (B.Com Hons): This is arguably the most competitive domain. For SRCC or Hindu, scores below 780/800 rarely make the first list for General category students.
• Science (B.Sc Hons): Calculated out of 600 (PCM/PCB). A score of 480+/600 is considered very safe for premier colleges like Hansraj or Miranda House. Science domain questions often feature higher difficulty levels, leading to slightly lower absolute cut-offs compared to Commerce.

The Impact of the Compulsory Question Rule

In the 2026-27 session, the NTA has removed internal choice. Attempting all 50 questions is mandatory. This change has two primary effects on cut-off trends:

• Negative Marking Pressure: With no choice to skip "difficult" questions, the probability of negative marks increases. This could lead to a minor dip in the "absolute perfection" scores seen in previous years (where scores were frequently 800/800).
• Normalization Variance: Since the paper is conducted across multiple shifts, normalization will play a more aggressive role. A raw score of 180/200 in a difficult shift may be superior to 200/200 in an easier shift.

Final Strategy for Preference Entry

Do not fill your preference list based only on the highest tier. A strategic list should include "Dream Colleges" (780+ range), "Realistic Targets" (your current mock range), and "Safety Nets" (100 marks below your mock range). This ensures that even in a high-inflation year, you do not end up without a seat in a central university.