Ludhiana: Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has achieved an unprecedented surge in student demand, recording 7,800 applications for its undergraduate and postgraduate programmes for the academic year 2026-27. This marks a significant milestone for the institution, reflecting its growing appeal among domestic and international students.
Rise in Entrance Test Participation
University officials reported a 22% increase in participation for the Common Entrance Test (CET), with 4,258 applicants sitting for the examination compared to 3,497 in the previous year. This upward trend underscores the heightened interest in PAU's academic offerings.
Specialised Admission Tests
Specialised admission tests also witnessed notable growth. The Agricultural Eligibility Test for the six-year BSc Honours programme saw applications rise to 1,104 from 849 last year. Similarly, the Ballowal Saunkhari Entrance Test for the four-year BSc Honours programme attracted 770 applicants, up from 667 in the prior cycle.
Global Interest Surge
International interest in PAU climbed significantly, with the institute receiving 738 applications from overseas students. This global recognition highlights PAU's reputation as a centre of excellence in agricultural education and research.
Postgraduate Demand Soars
The surge was most pronounced in postgraduate disciplines, where several courses attracted more than double the number of applicants compared to available seats. High-demand fields included food and nutrition, agribusiness MBAs, journalism, forestry, soil science, plant breeding, and agricultural meteorology. This competitive landscape reflects the growing preference for specialised advanced degrees.
Leadership Insights
University leadership attributed the competitive numbers to shifting employment trends and a growing recognition of agriculture as a diverse, modern professional field. Vice-Chancellor Satbir Singh Gosal stated, "PAU has established itself as a premier global institution in agricultural research and education." He cited the university's modernized curriculum and deep ties to rural communities as key factors driving demand.
Registrar Rishi Pal Singh added that the overwhelming response across such a broad spectrum of subjects reinforces the university's ongoing relevance in an evolving educational market. The institution continues to adapt to changing student preferences and industry needs, ensuring its programmes remain attractive and impactful.
