Board exam scores may get 50% weightage in NEET, JEE admissions

In a significant move that could reshape India’s medical and engineering admission process, Board exam marks may soon be given 50 per cent weightage alongside scores in entrance exams such as NEET and JEE. According to reports, the proposal is being considered as part of wider reforms aimed at reducing the pressure associated with high-stakes entrance tests.

At present, students’ performance in national-level entrance examinations largely determines admissions to medical and engineering colleges. Board exam marks mainly establish eligibility, and candidates must secure a minimum qualifying percentage.

The proposed change could bring school education back into sharper focus, ensuring that students’ consistent academic performance over the years is also valued during admissions. It may also reduce the heavy dependence on coaching institutes that many students currently rely on to prepare for competitive entrance exams.

A nine-member committee set up by the Ministry of Education last year is reportedly examining the reforms. The committee has studied concerns about students’ growing dependence on coaching centres, the spread of dummy schools, and the fairness of high-pressure exams.

Apart from giving Board marks greater importance, the committee is also considering closer alignment between school syllabi and entrance test patterns. This could help students prepare for competitive exams through regular classroom learning instead of relying heavily on separate coaching programmes.

Other proposals under discussion include allowing multiple attempts for entrance exams and gradually introducing adaptive, on-demand computer-based tests. Such measures may offer students greater flexibility and reduce the impact of a single exam on their academic future. 

The discussions come in the wake of several concerns surrounding the exam system, including alleged paper leaks and evaluation-related errors. These incidents have intensified the debate on whether a single entrance test should carry such a decisive role in determining college admissions.

The committee’s final report is expected to be submitted to the government in the coming weeks. However, no official announcement has yet been issued on implementing the proposed 50 per cent weightage for Board exam marks.