Madhya Pradesh Introduces Mandatory Test for Cross‑Stream PG Admissions

Eligible students will have to pass either CUET PG or a new state-level eligibility examination before being admitted to cross-stream PG programs for the 2025–26 academic year.

In a significant policy shift announced by Madhya Pradesh’s Department of Higher Education (DHE) this week, undergraduate students looking to switch disciplines at the postgraduate (PG) level—for instance, BA/BCom graduates opting for MSc programs—must now clear an entrance test. Eligible students will have to pass either CUET PG 2025 or a new state-level eligibility examination before being admitted to cross-stream PG programs for the 2025–26 academic year.

Previously, students had freedom to move across streams—such as BA to MA or BSc to MSc—without any additional testing. The change, effective immediately, closes this longstanding loophole, aiming to ensure academic readiness for subject-specific PG courses. Tulsi Ram Dahayat, an Officer on Special Duty at DHE, confirmed the policy shift, stating that detailed guidelines will soon be directed to state universities to implement and schedule the exams

Increased exam pressure: Undergraduates who planned to cross disciplines now face the task of preparing for CUET or the new eligibility test, under potentially tight timelines.

Admission timelines affected: The requirement may delay admission cycles and academic calendars, as test dates and result declarations are compacted.

Demand-driven policy: The shift reportedly responds to student demand and seeks to ensure that PG students possess the appropriate academic foundations in their chosen fields.

Broader Implications:

Institutional impact: Universities and coaching centers will need to adjust modules and counseling schedules.

Student strategy shift: Aspirants must now plan for additional entrance tests even if they previously did not need to, influencing preparation and resource allocation.