Are you in Class 10 or 11 and already dreaming about studying at one of the best institutes in India? If yes, then UGEE 2026 could be the exam that changes your future. Unlike JEE, which tests only subject knowledge, UGEE checks how you think, how you connect ideas, and how you solve new problems. It is the gateway to IIIT Hyderabad’s five-year dual degree programs, where you earn both a B.Tech and an MS by Research.
This guide is written especially for students like you who are planning to take UGEE in 2026. Here, you will find everything you need: the exam pattern, syllabus, preparation strategy, application details, and the crucial interview process. Think of this as your roadmap. By the end, you will not just know what UGEE is—you will know exactly how to prepare and succeed.
What is UGEE?
UGEE stands for Undergraduate Entrance Examination. It is conducted by IIIT Hyderabad. This is one of the top institutes in India for Computer Science and research. The purpose of UGEE is to select students for five-year dual degree programs. In these programs, you will earn both a B.Tech and a Master of Science (MS) by Research.
Unlike other exams that only check subject knowledge, UGEE focuses on your ability to apply knowledge. It tests how you connect ideas, solve puzzles, and approach problems in new ways.
The dual degree programs prepare students for research-based careers. Many UGEE graduates go for higher studies in top global universities. Some also join research labs or companies where innovation is important.
UGEE 2026 Programs and Eligibility
IIIT Hyderabad offers six unique programs under UGEE. Each program combines a B.Tech degree with an MS by Research. The MS part requires you to complete a research thesis. Here is a table showing the programs:
| Programme Abbreviation | Seats | Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) | Master of Science by Research |
| ECD | 20 | Electronics and Communication | Electronics and Communication |
| CSD | 30 | Computer Science and Engineering | Computer Science and Engineering |
| CLD | 15 | Computer Science | Computational Linguistics |
| CND | 15 | Computer Science | Computational Natural Sciences |
| CHD | 15 | Computer Science | Computing and Human Sciences |
| CGD | 15 | Computer Science | Geospatial Technology |
UGEE 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The Undergraduate Entrance Examination (UGEE) is the pathway for admission to IIIT Hyderabad’s dual degree programmes. Applicants in this mode need to appear for a computer-based test (CBT).
The UGEE exam runs for a total of three hours and is divided into two main sections:
- SUPR (Subject Proficiency Test) – 60 minutes
- REAP (Research Aptitude Test) – 120 minutes
Let’s look at both sections in detail.
SUPR – Subject Proficiency Test
The SUPR test evaluates a student’s understanding of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The questions are based on the Class 11 and 12 syllabus of CBSE and most state boards.
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Subjects Covered: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics
- Level: Class 11 and Class 12 topics
- Purpose: To test basic subject knowledge for engineering courses
This section is also used for the initial shortlisting of candidates.
REAP – Research Aptitude Test
The REAP test is unique to UGEE. It is not just about solving standard questions from the syllabus. Instead, it checks critical and creative thinking. Students face questions that test logic, reasoning, and analytical ability. School-level concepts from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics may be used, but the emphasis is on how you think, not just what you know.
- Duration: 120 minutes
- Skills Tested: Logical reasoning, problem-solving, creativity
- Purpose: To assess potential for research and innovation
UGEE Exam Structure Table
| Section | Duration | Subjects / Skills Tested | Based On | Purpose |
| SUPR (Subject Proficiency Test) | 60 minutes | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics | Class 11 & 12 syllabus | Used for initial filtering |
| REAP (Research Aptitude Test) | 120 minutes | Logic, reasoning, creative and critical thinking | School-level concepts | Used for ranking and interview shortlisting |
How To Prepare For UGEE?
Preparing for UGEE requires a slightly different approach than JEE. Most of the subject knowledge you need for UGEE is already covered in JEE preparation, especially for the SUPR section. However, the REAP section and the final interview require a unique mindset that focuses on problem-solving and critical thinking. The best part is that you do not need to join expensive, separate coaching programs. With a clear plan and consistent effort, you can prepare for UGEE alongside your JEE studies.
Let us break the preparation journey into two main phases. The first phase focuses on building your subject foundation and accuracy for SUPR. The second phase is about training your brain for the unconventional and creative thinking required in REAP.
Is Separate Coaching Needed for UGEE?
One of the first questions students ask is whether they need a special UGEE coaching program. The answer is usually no. If you are already preparing seriously for JEE, your JEE preparation will cover almost everything needed for SUPR. The syllabus for SUPR is based on Class 11 and 12 Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. So every hour you spend on JEE also helps you for UGEE.
However, UGEE is not identical to JEE. The REAP section is what makes UGEE unique. You will need to train your brain to apply your knowledge differently. This is not something coaching centers usually teach in depth. Instead, you can build this skill by practicing logical reasoning, solving puzzles, and analyzing past UGEE papers.
So, in short: No separate coaching is required. What you need is a smart strategy, not another classroom.
Phase 1: Foundational Mastery for SUPR
Goal: Your JEE Mains preparation is your UGEE SUPR preparation.
The SUPR section is the first step of UGEE. Without clearing this section, your REAP answers will not even be evaluated. That is why it is called the “qualifier.” It checks whether you have the required subject proficiency in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
Action Plan for SUPR
- Strengthen Your NCERT Base: Every topic in the UGEE SUPR section is directly linked to Class 11 and 12 syllabus. Start with NCERT textbooks. They give you the base clarity that you need for all subjects. Do not skip NCERT, even if you are using higher-level books.
- Use Standard JEE Reference Books: Once you are comfortable with NCERT, move to standard JEE books. For Physics, you can use H.C. Verma. For Chemistry, books by O.P. Tandon and N.Awasthi are useful. For Mathematics, R.D. Sharma and Arihant are reliable. These books give you practice at a level suitable for UGEE.
- Focus on Key Areas: While the entire syllabus is important, there are some topics that often decide the cutoff. In Mathematics, Probability is a key area. Many UGEE aspirants struggle with it, so mastering this topic can give you an edge. Similarly, in Physics, pay extra attention to Mechanics, Waves, and Electricity. For Chemistry, focus on Organic Chemistry concepts instead of rote-learning reactions.
- Solve a High Volume of Problems: SUPR has negative marking. This means you cannot afford to guess blindly. The best way to minimize errors is to practice as many problems as possible. Solve problems of varying difficulty to build speed and accuracy.
- Timed Practice: Set a timer whenever you practice. The SUPR section gives you only one hour. If you do not learn to manage your time, you may leave many questions unanswered. Practice completing mock tests in 60 minutes to simulate the actual exam environment.
- Avoid Silly Mistakes: Since there is negative marking, even a small mistake can lower your score. Make it a habit to double-check your answers during practice. Train yourself to slow down slightly when you are confident, so you do not lose marks due to overconfidence.
By following this plan, you will build a solid base for SUPR. Remember, SUPR is not about being extraordinary. It is about being consistent, accurate, and fast.
Phase 2: Developing the REAP Mindset
Goal: Train your brain to think critically and unconventionally.
REAP is the most important part of UGEE because it decides your rank. Unlike SUPR, you cannot prepare for it just by solving JEE-style questions. REAP tests how you apply your knowledge in new situations. It also checks how you connect concepts across subjects.
Action Plan for REAP
- Analyze Past Papers: Start by going through memory-based UGEE papers available online. You will notice that the REAP section often asks unusual questions. For example, instead of directly applying Newton’s laws, you may be asked to connect it with wave motion. Past papers show you how REAP questions are different from JEE. Use books like “IIIT Prep” or online platforms that share previous year’s analysis.
- Practice Logical Reasoning: REAP has questions that require logical and analytical reasoning. A good way to prepare is to solve reasoning questions from CAT preparation books. While CAT is a management exam, its reasoning section is excellent for building problem-solving ability. You can also solve reasoning problems from NTSE, IMO, or NSO practice material. These competitions train you to think creatively.
- Solve Puzzles Regularly: Dedicate at least 15 minutes a day to puzzles, brain teasers, or logic riddles. It may seem simple, but it sharpens your ability to see patterns and think outside the box. Websites and puzzle books can be a fun way to practice.
- Read Popular Science: Engage with science beyond textbooks. Read magazines, blogs, or books that explain scientific concepts in simple language. This helps you connect theory with real-world applications. For example, reading about how GPS satellites use relativity can strengthen both Physics and logical reasoning skills.
- Think Beyond the Syllabus: REAP often requires you to connect knowledge from different subjects. For example, a question may mix probability from Maths with genetics from Biology. Try to practice making these connections yourself. When you study a chapter, ask yourself how its concepts can relate to other subjects.
- Practice Open-Ended Questions: In REAP, sometimes there is no single correct answer. For practice, take a simple problem and try to solve it in different ways. This trains you to be flexible in your approach.
- Simulate Exam Conditions: REAP is two hours long. Practice solving mixed problems for two hours without a break. This builds stamina and concentration. Do not underestimate the mental effort required to think creatively for such a long duration.
Integrating SUPR and REAP Preparation
Since SUPR and REAP test different skills, you must balance preparation. A smart way is:
- Spend your weekdays focusing on JEE-style problem solving (SUPR).
- Use weekends or short breaks to practice REAP-style reasoning.
This ensures you do not neglect either part. Remember, SUPR is a gatekeeper, and REAP is the decider. You need both.
UGEE 2026 Interview Preparation
The UGEE interview is the final and most important stage of the admission process at IIIT Hyderabad. While the written exam (SUPR + REAP) tests your subject knowledge and aptitude, the interview is where your personality, thinking ability, and approach to problems truly come into play. Students who have gone through this process often say that the interview is the real deciding factor. Even if your exam score is not exceptional, a strong interview performance can secure your admission. On the other hand, a weak interview can hurt your chances, regardless of a good written score.
UGEE 2026 Interview Process
Once you are shortlisted based on your UGEE exam performance, you will receive an official email from IIIT Hyderabad. This email contains details about the verification meeting and the interview schedule. Before the actual interview, there is usually a tech-check or verification session. If the interview is online, this meeting ensures that your microphone, camera, and internet connection are working smoothly. It also gives the organizers a chance to verify your identity.
The interview itself is conducted by a panel of professors, sometimes two and sometimes more, depending on availability. These professors are highly experienced but also approachable and friendly. Depending on circumstances, the interview may be held online or in-person on the IIIT Hyderabad campus. The average interview lasts between 20 to 40 minutes, though it can be shorter or longer depending on the discussion.
What to Expect in the UGEE Interview
One of the most common fears students have is that the interview will be like a stressful viva or a high-pressure grilling session. However, most students who have experienced it describe the atmosphere as encouraging and conversational. Professors do not aim to intimidate you. Instead, they genuinely want to see how you think and how you explain your reasoning.
- Friendly Atmosphere: Interviewers often give hints if you get stuck. If you are nervous, they may even guide you gently toward the answer. This does not mean they expect you to always reach the final solution. They value your effort and approach more than the end result.
- Problem-Solving Focus: Most of the questions are open-ended and based on logical reasoning or real-world scenarios. You might be asked to connect concepts from physics, mathematics, or logic in new ways. The professors are less concerned about whether you give the “right” answer and more interested in how you arrive at it.
- No Single “Correct” Answer: Unlike school exams, here there is rarely one fixed solution. Different students may provide different approaches, and as long as your reasoning is sound, your answer will be appreciated.
Example Questions Shared by Students
- Physics: “Explain why an electron doesn’t fall into the nucleus. Start with the idea of standing waves and then connect it to angular momentum.”
- Logic/Linguistics: “Describe a sentence using only pronouns, with no nouns.”
- Maths/Problem-Solving: Some students were asked to solve puzzles like arranging numbers under certain constraints or analyzing the probability of outcomes in a simple game.
These questions are designed to stretch your thinking, not test memorization. They check if you can break down a problem into smaller steps and explain your reasoning clearly.
How to Prepare for the Interview
Preparation for the UGEE interview is different from preparing for written exams. Here are the most important points to keep in mind:
- Think Aloud: This is perhaps the most crucial advice from seniors. During the interview, silence is not a good strategy. Even if you are unsure about the solution, explain what you are thinking. Walk the panel through your approach, step by step. Professors often value this more than reaching the final answer.
- Master Your Basics: Revise your Class 11 and 12 concepts in physics, mathematics, and chemistry. You don’t need to memorize everything, but clarity is essential. For example, if a question is based on wave mechanics, you should know the fundamentals clearly enough to build on them during the discussion.
- Be Authentic: Don’t try to pretend you know everything. If you don’t know something, admit it honestly and explain how you would try to approach or learn it. Professors appreciate curiosity and honesty more than a rehearsed response.
- Show Genuine Interest: Remember that IIIT Hyderabad values students who enjoy problem-solving and research. If you are naturally curious and enthusiastic, let that show. Ask for clarifications if needed, and don’t hesitate to explore different ways of answering a question.
- Practice Explaining: You can prepare by practicing with friends, teachers, or even in front of a mirror. Take any problem—whether a physics derivation, a math puzzle, or even a logical riddle—and explain your reasoning out loud. This builds confidence and fluency.
Conclusion
UGEE is not an ordinary entrance exam. It is a chance for students who want to go beyond regular engineering and step into research at an early stage. IIIT Hyderabad gives you the opportunity to earn both a B.Tech and an MS by Research in five years. This means you graduate with deeper knowledge, strong problem-solving skills, and research experience that very few undergraduates in India have.
If you are in Class 10 or 11 today, you still have the right amount of time to prepare. Focus first on building your concepts for JEE-level preparation. That will help you with the SUPR section. Then, slowly build the REAP mindset by practicing puzzles, reasoning, and connecting different ideas. Finally, prepare yourself to explain your thought process clearly in the interview.
UGEE 2026 can shape your future in a big way. Start early, stay consistent, and you will have the confidence to face the exam and the interview.
FAQs
1) Can I prepare for JEE and UGEE together?
Yes, you can. JEE preparation already covers the SUPR part of UGEE, which includes Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The only additional part you need to prepare for is the REAP section. With consistent reasoning practice, JEE and UGEE preparation can go hand in hand effectively.
2) What are the best books for UGEE preparation?
You don’t need special books beyond JEE material. NCERT textbooks, JEE reference books like H.C. Verma for Physics and R.D. Sharma for Mathematics, and basic logical reasoning books are enough. UGEE focuses on understanding and application rather than rote learning, so strong fundamentals from these resources will help.
3) How is the REAP section different from JEE Advanced?
JEE Advanced mainly tests problem-solving ability from within the syllabus, whereas the REAP section goes one step further. REAP focuses on how you apply your subject knowledge in new, unfamiliar situations. It emphasizes creativity, reasoning, and logical thinking rather than straightforward application of formulas or memorized methods.
4) What if I don’t have any prior research experience?
Not having research experience is not a disadvantage. UGEE is designed to test your problem-solving skills, curiosity, and ability to think in a research-oriented manner. Interviewers and examiners look for originality and clarity of thought. Your willingness to explore and explain concepts is valued more than past projects.
