Government Plans Major Overhaul of Competitive Exam Structure

The central government is set to implement significant reforms in the competitive exam landscape, targeting the coaching culture surrounding JEE, NEET, and CUET. An 11-member committee has proposed conducting these exams in grade 11 to alleviate pressure on students and allow earlier career decisions. Additionally, the introduction of biannual exams and a hybrid admission system that values both board scores and aptitude tests is under consideration. Concerns regarding dummy schools and the quality of education have also been highlighted, emphasizing the need for a stronger school system. These proposals could lead to a major overhaul of the current admission processes.

By Ambika Singh Dec 2, 2025, 10:08 IST

Introduction to New Initiatives

The central government is gearing up to implement significant reforms aimed at addressing the escalating coaching culture surrounding competitive examinations such as JEE, NEET, and CUET. This initiative comes in light of the increasing mental strain on students, the declining effectiveness of traditional school education, and the rise of dummy schools. To tackle these issues, an 11-member central committee has been established. During a recent meeting, the committee evaluated several noteworthy and unexpected proposals that could potentially reshape the entrance exam framework and the overall academic landscape for students.

Proposed Changes to Exam Timing

JEE, NEET, and CUET Exams to be Held in Grade 11
The committee convened on November 15th to deliberate on critical matters. It was noted that many students dedicate five to six hours daily to coaching after school, adversely affecting their health and academic performance. A key proposal discussed was to conduct national-level entrance exams like JEE, NEET, and CUET in grade 11 instead of grade 12. This change aims to alleviate the academic burden during grade 12 and enable students to make career decisions a year earlier. However, the final decision hinges on aligning the syllabus, with NCERT tasked to compare the CBSE syllabus with those of various state boards.

Introduction of Biannual Entrance Exams

Twice-a-Year Entrance Exams Suggested
The committee also proposed that entrance exams be held biannually, in April and November. This would provide students with two chances each year, easing the pressure of preparing for a single exam. This recommendation aligns with the New Education Policy 2020. Furthermore, the committee suggested that future admissions should not rely solely on one entrance exam. Instead, a hybrid approach should be adopted, incorporating both board exam results and aptitude tests, thereby reducing students' dependence on coaching centers and enhancing the role of schools.

Addressing Concerns in Education

Issues with Dummy Schools and Education Quality
During the meeting, concerns were raised regarding dummy schools, disparities in teacher quality, a flawed assessment system, and insufficient career counseling. The committee believes that diminishing reliance on coaching institutes will be challenging unless school education is significantly improved. Currently, these proposals are under discussion. After a comprehensive review of the syllabus and further analysis, the committee will present its final recommendations to the government. If adopted, these changes could lead to a substantial transformation in the admission process.