The higher education department of Odisha commenced the Phase-1 e-admission process for undergraduate (UG) courses in degree colleges through the Students Academic Management System (SAMS) on Wednesday. This year, the academic session for 2026-27 is scheduled to begin on July 9, marking an early start compared to previous years.
Application Process and Timeline
Officials stated that Common Application Forms (CAFs) are now available on the SAMS website (www.samsodisha.gov.in). Students can submit their applications online until June 10. The admissions will be conducted in three rounds to ensure a structured process.
Round-wise Schedule
- First Round: The first merit list will be published on June 17. Admissions under this round will be held from June 18 to June 20.
- Second Round: The second merit list will be released on June 29, with admissions conducted from June 30 to July 4.
- Third Round: After the academic session begins on July 9, the third round, reserved for spot and waiting-list admissions, will take place on July 17.
Early Start of Academic Session
Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj explained that the decision to begin the academic session early was made to ensure timely completion of UG courses. This will allow students to prepare and apply for competitive examinations without delay. Prior to 2025, the academic session used to begin in August.
Phase-2 Admissions
The Phase-2 UG admission process will begin after the Council of Higher Secondary Education (CHSE) declares the results of the instant examinations for Class XII students of the state board. The CHSE Instant examinations are scheduled for July, and the council typically takes around 60 days to publish the results. Phase-2 admissions will be exclusively reserved for left-out students—those who fail to secure admission in any degree college during Phase-1 will be allotted seats.
Seat Strength and Restrictions
This year, the total seat strength in UG courses stands at 2.76 lakh across 1,050 colleges. However, admissions to nine self-financing and unaided degree colleges have been restricted for the new session following the withdrawal of recognition.
