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Odisha Colleges Set to Revive Students' Union Elections After Eight Years!

After an eight-year break, students' union elections will return to Odisha colleges on October 15. The Higher Education Department has outlined eligibility criteria, including age limits and academic requirements. Key dates include the election notification on October 7 and nomination submissions on October 9. This revival marks a significant moment for student governance in the state, allowing undergraduates and postgraduates to actively participate in their college administration. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development!
By Ambika Singh Oct 5, 2026, 14:02 IST

Exciting News for Odisha Students


Bhubaneswar: After an eight-year hiatus, students' union elections are set to take place in colleges throughout Odisha on October 15. The Higher Education Department has released an official notification detailing the eligibility requirements for students wishing to run for office.

According to the timeline provided, colleges and universities will announce the election on October 7. Candidates can submit their nomination papers on October 9, with polling and vote counting scheduled for October 15, followed by the swearing-in ceremony for elected officials on October 16.


Eligibility Requirements for Candidates


The official guidelines state that undergraduate students (those pursuing a +3 degree) aged between 17 and 22, as well as postgraduate students up to 25 years old on the notification date, are eligible to contest. Candidates must not have any academic arrears during the election year and must maintain a minimum attendance of 75%.

Each candidate is allowed one chance to run for an office-bearer position and two chances for an executive member role. Additionally, candidates must have a clean criminal record, meaning they should not have faced any criminal charges or disciplinary actions from their educational institution.


To qualify, candidates must be full-time students enrolled through the Student Academic Management System (SAMS) in either regular or self-financing programs. Those studying through distance education or public-private partnerships (PPP) are not eligible.

Schedule for Students’ Union Elections



  • Issuance of election notification: October 7


  • Filing of nomination papers: October 9


  • Polling date: October 15


  • Vote counting and results announcement: October 15


  • Swearing-in of elected representatives: October 16



PNN & Agencies