The Ministry of Education is considering a proposal to give 50% weightage to board exam marks in admissions to medical and engineering colleges, which are currently based solely on entrance tests like NEET and JEE, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Proposal aims to reduce high-stakes nature of exams
The changes are being contemplated with the aim of reducing the high-stakes nature of any single exam, whether it be board exams or entrance tests. The move comes after a series of anomalies in the examination system, including evaluation errors and paper leaks, have sparked a debate on the credibility of the system.
“The changes being contemplated are 50% weightage for board marks in admission/merit, closer alignment of entrance tests with school syllabi to reduce dependence on coaching centres, multiple attempts and a gradual shift towards adaptive on-demand computer-based tests,” a source said.
Current system and proposed reforms
At present, medical and engineering admissions are based on entrance test scores, and candidates are required to score a qualifying percentage in board exams to be eligible for the entrance exams. The proposed reforms would integrate board marks directly into the merit list.
The reforms are being considered by a nine-member committee set up by the Ministry of Education last year. The committee is tasked with examining students' dependence on coaching, the spread of “dummy schools,” and fairness in high-stakes entrance tests.
Committee report expected soon
The panel's final report is likely to be submitted to the government in the coming weeks. The committee has also recommended closer alignment of entrance tests with school syllabi to reduce the reliance on coaching centres.
