Calcutta University plans entrance exams for postgraduate admissions

Calcutta University is set to introduce entrance examinations for admission to most of its postgraduate departments, replacing the existing system that relied largely on undergraduate marks. Vice-chancellor Ashutosh Ghosh stated that the move reflects the preference of many departments to evaluate candidates through written tests rather than academic scores alone.

At present, the university allocates 80 percent of its postgraduate seats to students from colleges affiliated with Calcutta University, admitting them based on their undergraduate results. The remaining 20 percent of seats are filled through entrance tests and are open to graduates from other universities. Under the proposed changes, entrance examinations would be used to assess all applicants, regardless of their academic background.

University authorities, especially from humanities departments, have expressed the view that academic marks do not necessarily indicate a student’s suitability for advanced studies. As a result, most departments have recommended a uniform testing process for all candidates. However, departments that prefer to continue with merit-based admissions, such as Buddhist Studies, may be allowed to do so.

The admission framework will also align with the National Education Policy guidelines. Students completing a four-year undergraduate programme and exiting after three years with an honours degree will be eligible for a two-year master’s course. Those who complete the full four years with an honours degree that includes research will qualify for a one-year postgraduate programme.

University officials indicated that students graduating with a research component in 2027 may be exempted from entrance tests for admission into one-year postgraduate courses, as their research work would already demonstrate their academic capability. A final decision on this exemption, however, is still pending.