Few petitions, including by the Maharashtra Government sought to have the final year college exams cancelled by UGC because of Covid-19, as students face difficulties with institutions closed, tarvel limited and other problems related to the pandemic. The argument suggested the CGPA of previous semesters be considered for a final grade.
However the Supreme Court has ruled that "internal assessments will not suffice" and students may not be promoted without final examinations. They did however rule that the deadline of 30 September for exams to be completed can be flexible and states can move UGC to consider later deadlines beyond 30 September to finish their examinations.
It has been ruled that all students have to sit final exams and while States can postpone the dates, the cannot be cancelled.
The UGC had states the exams are needed to "protect the academic future of students" and that degrees cannot be awarded without examinations.
It is likely this will delay and make difficult the admission of PG students into UK HEIs, as final exam results wont be available till October or later. While many students would be given conditional admissions, final decisions will be delayed in many cases. Some Indian universities are looking at online exams while some may opt for physical tests with Covid-related precautions in place, so we are hopeful there will be a quick turnaround for some states.
We are keen to hear from UK HEIs how they will be responding to students who will be affected by this so we can consolidate responses for the local market. Different states in India will offer different dates and solutions for this - do let us know if you would like to hear more details on those.
If you have any questions please write to Aatreyee Guha Thakurta (Regional Marketing and Communications Manager, International Education Services, South Asia).
https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/final-year-college-exams-to-be-held-by-…