University of Calcutta: Latest Updates (May 2025)

If you’re eyeing the University of Calcutta (CU) for your higher education or just curious about what’s brewing on campus, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the freshest happenings at CU, all laid out in simple terms. Check the top institutes in Kolkata.

Early PG Admissions: A Game-Changer

CU is shaking things up! This year, postgraduate (PG) admissions are set to kick off in early July, right after the final semester exams. This proactive move aims to curb the annual student exodus caused by delayed admissions. Typically, PG admissions begin post-results, often stretching into October or beyond. Starting early ensures classes commence on time and seats are filled promptly.

PG Admissions Kick Off Early This Year

Good news for aspiring postgraduates! CU is planning to start its postgraduate (PG) admissions in early July, right after the final semester exams. This proactive move aims to prevent the usual delays that often push admissions to October or later. The university intends to reserve 60% of seats for CU students based on merit, while the remaining 40% will be open to external candidates through an entrance test. This change is pending final approval from the university syndicate.

PhD Interviews: Commerce Department Update

For those aspiring to pursue a PhD in Commerce, here’s the scoop:

No candidates qualified for the PhD Entrance Test held on February 25, 2025.
Shortlisted candidates are eligible for interviews scheduled on March 18 and 19, 2025, at Room No. 422, Asutosh Building, College Street Campus, Kolkata.
Documents to carry: Aadhar card or any government-recognized photo ID, original mark sheets, degree certificates, caste certificates (if applicable), relevant research qualification certificates (SET/NET/JRF), and a signed hard copy of the Statement of Purpose (SoP) mentioning your name and roll number.

PhD in Commerce: Interview Results Announced

For those eyeing a PhD in Commerce, here’s the latest:

Interviews were held on March 18 and 19, 2025, at the College Street Campus.
Results have been published, listing the successful candidates.

If you’re among the selected, congratulations!

CU Shines in Asia Rankings

CU has made India proud by securing the position in the University Rankings for Asia 2025. This recognition places CU among Asia’s top 250 institutes, highlighting its academic reputation, employer reputation, and research impact. Check the latest ranking of top Universities in India.

BBA Admission & Syllabus Tweaks

CU has updated its BBA admission regulations and syllabus:

Language options expanded: Students can now choose between Alternative English or MIL (Bengali, Hindi, Urdu Literature).
Syllabus adjustments: Semester 3 and 4 now reflect these language options, ensuring a more inclusive curriculum.

UG Admission Rule Update

A crucial update for UG aspirants:

Subject eligibility: If you’ve studied a subject at the 10+2 level and failed, you cannot opt for the same subject (Major/Minor) at the UG level, regardless of your performance in related subjects.

UG Admissions Delayed Over OBC Quota Decision

Heads up for undergraduate aspirants: CU has temporarily paused UG admissions due to pending guidelines from the state government regarding OBC reservations. The university is awaiting legal advice to ensure compliance and avoid potential legal complications.

NEP-Inspired Multidisciplinary Courses

Embracing the National Education Policy (NEP), CU now offers:

Three-year multidisciplinary courses: Students can exit after the second or fourth semesters.
Subject flexibility: Choose science subjects alongside humanities, creating a diverse academic experience.

Addressing Missing Answer Scripts

CU is tackling the issue of missing answer scripts head-on:

Counseling principals: Instead of formal letters, CU is personally guiding college principals on handling missing Bengali first-semester exam scripts.
Student support: Affected students will be informed about available options and procedures to ensure transparency and fairness.

Important Dates to Remember – Admission

Mark your calendars:

WBJEE 2025 Exam: April 27, 2025.
GATE 2025 Exam: February 1, 2, 15, and 16, 2025.
MAT 2025 Registration Deadline: March 9 and 23, 2025.
MBA Application Deadline: June 23, 2025.
PG Admission Deadline: June 10, 2025.
Summer Classes: May 29 – June 30, 2025.

Summer Classes to Make Up for Lost Time

In an effort to compensate for the academic time lost due to last year’s delayed admissions, CU has advised its affiliated colleges to conduct classes during the summer recess from May 29 to June 30, 2025. Colleges have the flexibility to choose between online, offline, or hybrid modes of instruction.

M.Sc. Exam Rules Amended

For M.Sc. students under the CBCS system:

Exam rule amendments: The Syndicate approved changes to the earlier notification, ensuring clarity and updated guidelines for students.

A Legacy of Excellence

Established in 1857, CU boasts:

14 campuses across Kolkata and its suburbs.
151 affiliated undergraduate colleges and 16 institutes.
Notable alumni: Rabindranath Tagore, C.V. Raman, Amartya Sen, Abhijit Banerjee, and many more.

Boipara Battles Early Rains

Kolkata’s iconic College Street, affectionately known as Boipara, faced unexpected early rains this year. Booksellers scrambled to protect their valuable stock by using plastic sheets and elevating platforms. The community is urging civic authorities to improve infrastructure to prevent such incidents in the future.

VC Appointments Under Judicial Review

The Supreme Court has appointed former Chief Justice UU Lalit to review objections raised by West Bengal’s governor regarding the appointment of 17 vice-chancellors, including CU’s. A hearing is scheduled for July 17, 2025.

Final Thoughts

CU is evolving, embracing reforms, and striving for excellence. Whether you’re a prospective student or just keeping tabs, these updates reflect CU’s commitment to providing quality education and adapting to modern academic needs.

Stay tuned for more updates, and if you have questions or need guidance, feel free to ask. We’re here to help you navigate your academic journey!