NEET-JEE Exams: Major changes could be in store for prominent entrance exams like NEET and JEE. Sources indicate that consideration is being given to assigning up to 50% weightage to board exam marks for admissions based on these entrance tests. If implemented, the significance of board exam scores would increase substantially. This shift is being contemplated to alleviate the immense pressure and stress associated with a single high-stakes exam. Until now, students have prioritized NEET and JEE over board exams; however, assigning weightage to board marks would completely alter the equation.
Preparing for a major overhaul amidst paper leak reports?
Plans for this move are being formulated against the backdrop of recent paper leak incidents and growing concerns regarding the examination process. With the existing examination system in India facing constant scrutiny, reducing the weightage of these fiercely competitive entrance exams could prove highly effective. Several southern states have consistently advocated for this approach. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay has repeatedly stated that admissions—specifically for NEET—should be based on Class 12 marks.
Potential for various changes
A source revealed, “The changes under consideration include assigning 50% weightage to board marks for admission or merit list preparation, better aligning entrance exam syllabi with school curricula to reduce student reliance on coaching centers, offering multiple attempts for exams, and gradually transitioning towards computer-based, on-demand testing.”
How does the admission process work currently?
Under the prevailing system, students must take the NEET exam for medical admissions and the JEE exam for engineering admissions. Admission is granted based on the scores and cut-offs achieved in these exams. Candidates are also required to secure minimum passing marks to be eligible to appear for these entrance tests. A nine-member committee appointed by the Ministry of Education is currently deliberating on reforms to this system. This is the same committee that was constituted last year to monitor the ever-increasing reliance on coaching and the trend of dummy schools.
