There can be major changes in big entrance exams like NEET and JEE. Sources say that on the basis of these exams, it is being considered to give 50% weightage to the board exam score for admission. If this happens, the importance of board exam scores will increase significantly. This change is being thought to reduce the immense pressure and stress associated with a single major exam. Till now, students gave priority to NEET and JEE rather than board exams; But, giving weightage to board scores will completely change this situation.
**Preparation for major changes amidst news of paper leak?**
This plan is being made amid the recent incidents of paper leak and questions being raised on the exam process. The existing exam system in India is constantly under scrutiny; In such a situation, reducing the weightage of these highly competitive exams can prove to be a very effective step. Many southern states have consistently advocated this. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay has repeatedly said that NEET admissions should be based on Class 12 marks.
**Possibility of many changes**
A source said, “The changes being considered include giving 50% weightage to board marks for preparing admission or merit lists, better aligning the entrance exam syllabus with school syllabus to reduce students’ dependence on coaching centres, giving multiple opportunities to take the exam and gradually moving towards computer-based, on-demand testing.”
Under the current system, students have to appear for NEET for medical admissions and JEE for engineering admissions. Admission is given on the basis of score and cut-off obtained in these exams. Candidates also have to score at least passing marks to appear in these entrance exams. A committee of nine members appointed by the Education Ministry is currently considering reforms in the system. This is the same committee that was formed last year to keep an eye on the increasing dependence on coaching and the practice of dummy schools.
