SPPU students want centre-based entrance exams, cite technical glitches & fairness concerns

Pune: A section of students from the Savitribai Phule Pune University has objected to the university’s decision to conduct postgraduate and undergraduate entrance examinations for the 2026-27 academic year in a fully online format instead of holding them at designated exam centres.

A circular issued on May 5, 2026, had initially stated that students would need to report to exam centres to take online tests. Many applicants, however, recently received emails informing them that the exams would now be conducted remotely, allowing candidates to appear from their chosen locations.

Abhishek Shelkar, a second-year MA political science student and member of the University Student Struggle Action Committee, questioned the shift in policy. “When the university increased the entrance exam fee to Rs 800 this year, we were told that the increased amount is to facilitate a transparent and merit-based admission process by conducting the exams at designated centres. But if there are no centres, and students are appearing for it online from wherever they want, then how is it merit based and how is the increased fees justified?" asked Shelkar.

Shelkar also raised concerns about the university’s claim of maintaining human-proctored examinations. “We had met the (SPPU) vice-chancellor with similar complaints last year also and he had promised to look into it. What is the point of conducting the entrance exam if there is no check on malpractices? The students from poorer sections of the society are hit hard,” he alleged.

Basavaraj Sonkamble, a first-year MA student, recalled several technical issues during the 2025-26 entrance exams. He said many students, particularly from the rural areas, faced login difficulties, technical glitches and delays that prevented exams from starting on time. “Some candidates use unfair means, including AI tools, compromising the integrity of the examination process. We demand that exams be conducted at designated centres to ensure fairness,” he said.

Senior university officials did not respond to repeated calls and messages till going to the press.