The University Grants Commission (UGC) has witnessed an uptick in higher education institutions across India adopting the Common University Entrance Test for Undergraduates (CUET UG) for their admissions process. UGC Chairman Jagadesh Mamidala Kumar recently revealed that an impressive array of universities, including 46 central universities, 32 state universities, and 20 deemed-to-be universities, have now registered to use CUET UG scores for admitting students into their undergraduate programs.
The adoption of CUET UG scores extends beyond public institutions, with 98 private universities and six government institutions also joining the fold this year. This move marks a pivotal shift towards standardising entrance procedures and making the admissions landscape more uniform across the country.
Amidst the logistical challenges of coordinating with the election schedule, the UGC has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting CUET UG from May 15 to May 31, 2024, without any changes despite the Lok Sabha elections. The decision comes after considering the potential overlap with the election dates. UGC chief Kumar initially indicates that the exam schedule could be adjusted depending on the Lok Sabha polls timeline. However, the current stance underscores the determination to maintain the academic calendar’s integrity.
In preparation for CUET UG 2024, Kumar highlighted several enhancements designed to streamline the testing experience for candidates. These improvements aim to moderate the difficulty level of the entrance exam, increase accessibility, and reduce logistical issues, ultimately fostering a more conducive environment for test-takers. “Adjustments have been implemented to improve the overall testing experience for CUET UG 2024 candidates, creating a stress-free testing environment,” Kumar stated, reflecting the UGC’s dedication to facilitating a smooth and equitable admissions process nationwide.
