More than 14 lakh applicants seeking undergraduate admissions registered for the second round of the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) on Sunday.
Over 14 lakh applications were submitted for CUET-UG this year, a notable 41% rise from the first edition the previous year. In terms of applicants, CUET-UG continues to be the second-largest entrance exam in the nation.
12.5 million students registered for the first edition, and 9.9 million of them submitted applications. Approximately 8 lakh kids will take part in the current exam phase, which will be held from May 21 to May 25, with an equal number of males and females.
Advice from the UGC Chairman to Students
The Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC), M. Jagadesh Kumar, recommended that students only respond to questions when they are certain of the proper answers. He emphasized the significance of attentively reading the questions and keeping composed while taking the test. There would always be another chance to perform well; therefore, Kumar urged pupils to concentrate on their efforts rather than the results.
Study the questions completely. Since there will be points deducted for incorrect answers, just respond to the questions if you are certain that they are true. Keep your cool and concentrate on your work without second-guessing the result. Even if you perform poorly on the test, keep in mind that tomorrow will provide another chance for success, the chairman added.
To accommodate the increased number of applicants, the exam is being administered in three shifts, as opposed to last year. To guarantee that all applicants could participate, the National Testing Agency (NTA) extended the schedule by at least four days.
Enhanced Planning and Challenges
Numerous issues plagued the first administration of CUET-UG, which was administered in July of last year, causing the exam to be cancelled at numerous centers. The NTA has taken steps to ensure that all centers are ready to handle the difficulties, including evaluating computer systems, network infrastructure, and security. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have been distributed to observers and invigilators, and dummy tests have been run to find and fix any potential problems. Each center has additional computers set up to quickly handle any unanticipated issues and ensure a smooth exam process.
The significant rise in the number of applicants reflects the growing popularity of CUET-UG, making it the second-largest entrance exam in the country. This surge indicates the increasing interest among students to pursue higher education and secure their place in reputed universities. The current phase of the exam witnesses the participation of approximately 8 lakh students, with equal representation of both boys and girls.
While the debut edition of CUET-UG faced some challenges, including glitches and exam cancellations, the NTA has taken the necessary measures to address them. Rigorous preparations have been made to ensure the readiness of all exam centers, including testing computer systems, network infrastructure, and security. Observers and invigilators have been provided with SoPs, and dummy tests have been conducted to identify and resolve any potential issues. These efforts aim to facilitate a smooth and hassle-free examination process, allowing students to demonstrate their knowledge and potential.
Empowering Students and Shaping Future Opportunities
The second edition of CUET has garnered significant interest among aspiring students, reflecting their determination to pursue higher education and secure admission to renowned universities. The proactive measures taken by the authorities demonstrate their commitment to providing students with a fair and transparent examination process. By creating a platform for candidates to exhibit their academic abilities, CUET opens doors to promising educational journeys and future prospects. The success of the exam not only empowers students but also contributes to shaping a brighter future for the nation through a highly skilled and talented workforce.
