Calicut University conducts its entrance exam known as CUCAT for several undergraduate and postgraduate courses like Integrated M.A. in Development Science, Integrated M.Sc in Physics or Chemistry, Integrated M.Sc in Bioscience, M.A in various disciplines (like Arabic Language, Economics, English Language and Literature) and other Postgraduate and Undergraduate courses.

CUCAT is generally conducted in offline mode (i.e. in Pen & Paper Mode). The CUCAT entrance exam consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs). For a few specialized courses at Calicut University, subjective questions are also asked in the CUCAT entrance exam.

Once the CUCAT Entrance Exam is conducted successfully, Calicut University declares the final merit list for their various Undergraduate and Postgraduate Courses for admission to Calicut University. Selected candidates in the final merit list for a specific course will have to attend the CUCAT counseling session to confirm their seats during the admission procedure at Calicut University. The CUCAT Entrance Exam is conducted every year for admission to the University of Calicut.