The state’s Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) for engineering admissions may be conducted later than usual this year, as authorities are waiting for the official announcement of the Assembly election timetable before finalizing the exam dates.

Traditionally, the entrance test for admission to BTech programmes across the state is organized in April. However, officials have indicated that the schedule this year will depend on the election calendar released by the Election Commission.

According to sources within the examination board, dates for the test-through which approximately 34,000 BTech seats are filled-will be declared only after the poll schedule is confirmed. Many of the schools and colleges that serve as examination centres are expected to be used for election-related activities, making it necessary to coordinate timelines.

In a typical year, online applications for BTech aspirants open between January and early February, following a notification issued in December. This process has not yet begun, adding to expectations of a delay.

Other education boards adjusted their calendars in anticipation of the elections. The higher secondary council conducted its examinations in February, earlier than usual, while the secondary education board also advanced its schedule to ensure completion before polling activities.

The JEE board, however, did not reschedule in advance. Officials noted that the absence of a chairperson over the past two months has limited major decision-making. At present, administrative responsibilities are being handled by the registrar.

During the previous Assembly elections in 2021, the JEE examination was eventually held in July rather than April due to a surge in Covid-19 cases earlier in the year.

An academic from Jadavpur University observed that conducting the entrance test later than usual could disrupt the broader academic calendar, as delays tend to push back admissions and the start of classes.

Last year, BTech courses in the state began in October, around two months later than normal, following legal disputes over reservation policies that slowed the publication of results.

Board representatives have stated that discussions are ongoing with the education department, and a formal announcement regarding the examination schedule is expected by late February or early March.