The introduction of the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) in 2022 marked a significant change in the landscape of university admissions in India. Designed as a national-level entrance exam, CUET aimed to streamline the admission process for undergraduate and postgraduate programs in central universities. However, it’s important to note that CUET is not a mandatory requirement for all central universities.

The University Grants Commission (UGC), the apex regulatory body for higher education in India, has clarified that central universities have the autonomy to decide whether they want to use CUET as the basis for their admissions or continue with their existing entrance exams. 

The decision regarding CUET adoption is influenced by various factors, including the university’s size, diversity, the range of programs offered, and available resources.

 let’s explore a few notable examples:

• University of Delhi’s Stance: The University of Delhi, one of India’s most prominent central universities, has opted to continue using its own entrance exams for undergraduate program admissions. The rationale behind this decision is the belief that CUET may not be suitable for its large and diverse student body.

• IIT Madras Embraces CUET: In contrast, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has chosen to adopt CUET for undergraduate program admissions. The institute views CUET as a fair and transparent method to select students, enhancing the admission process.

Pros and Cons of CUET Adoption for Central Universities:

Pros:

• Fairness and Transparency: CUET offers a level playing field by ensuring fairness and transparency in the selection process.
• Standardization: The exam is standardized, allowing students from diverse schools and backgrounds to be compared fairly.
• Quality Enhancement: CUET has the potential to raise the educational standards in central universities by admitting the most deserving candidates.

Cons:

• Limited Track Record: CUET is a relatively new exam, lacking a proven track record of its effectiveness in the admission process.

• Financial Implications: The exam may pose financial challenges for some students who find it expensive to take.

• Suitability: CUET may not be suitable for all central universities, particularly those with smaller student populations or specialized programs.

In conclusion, the decision to adopt CUET for admissions to central universities is a complex and multifaceted one. Each central university must weigh the pros and cons, considering its unique circumstances and goals. The UGC has emphasized that there is no universal right or wrong answer, emphasizing the importance of institutional autonomy in this matter.