JNM Correspondent Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
Immense enthusiasm is being witnessed among students regarding admissions to undergraduate and five-year integrated courses across the 142 degree colleges in Jammu and Kashmir. Under the online admission process initiated by the Higher Education Department, more than 30,000 students have applied so far. The deadline for the application process has been set for May 27, while the first merit list is scheduled to be released on May 30.
This year, admissions are being granted based on the merit of Class 12 marks. Following several years in which many colleges saw seats remain vacant, the admission process has been implemented on a non-CUET basis this time around—a move that has brought significant relief to students.
In the Jammu division, the top choices for students remain the Science College, Commerce College, Maulana Azad Memorial College, Government College for Women (Gandhi Nagar), and Government College for Women (Parade). Meanwhile, in the Kashmir Valley, competition among students is particularly intense for securing admission to the Government College for Women (M.A. Road), Amar Singh College, and S.P. College. The superior academic infrastructure and the availability of a wide range of subjects at these prestigious institutions serve as major attractions for students.
Although colleges located in district headquarters are also witnessing a healthy number of admissions, the inclination of students toward colleges situated in rural and remote areas appears to be comparatively lower.
According to the schedule released by the Higher Education Department, the first merit list will be published on May 30. Selected students will be required to complete their admission formalities between June 1 and June 6. The second merit list is slated for release on June 9, following which the admission process for that round will be conducted from June 10 to June 15.
The Department has also scheduled an on-the-spot admission process for the remaining vacant seats, to be held from June 18 to June 25. Classes in colleges falling under the ‘Summer Zone’ will commence on July 15, whereas academic sessions in ‘Winter Zone’ colleges are set to begin on June 15.



