IISER entrance exam: JEE scores not a criteria any more, says IISER-Pune Director Prof Sunil S Bhagwat

IISER-Pune is among the leading institutions in the country. In 2023, it was ranked 34th in the overall category and 27th in the research category by the National Institutional Ranking Framework, Ministry of Education.

According to Prof Bhagwat, IISER’s BS+MS five-year degree programme, framed in tune with the National Education Policy, is a popular choice for students wanting to engage in science. “Across the seven IISERs in the country, about 1,800-2,000 spots are available for the BS-MS programme. The entrance exam is tough, but I encourage all those with a strong interest in the sciences and who meet the eligibility criteria to apply,” he said.

The professor said that a fraction of the selected students have come through the JEE channel using their JEE scores in the past, but this year, the admissions process has been streamlined such that admissions are exclusively through an aptitude test.

Training in the sciences opens up careers in research and beyond

Prof Bhagwat said that IISER students have got into the best universities and well-deserving academic jobs. “Along with those choosing research careers in academia, I would like students who get into the industry also to be applauded. Training in the sciences opens up careers in research and beyond. This year we deliberately invited key members among our alumni who have taken up the road less travelled by exploring careers in finance and entrepreneurship but have evolved in their careers using scientific methods. They all shared their success stories,” he said, referring to the interactive session of the alumni members with the IISER students.

Surprize quizzes to discourage rote learning a growing trend in institutions

According to Prof Bhagwat, examinations are not an accurate measure of one’s abilities. “If passing the exam becomes the sole focus of studying then the true purpose of the test is lost. However, to discourage rote learning these surprise quizzes encourage students towards a better understanding of concepts. Open-book exams can enhance this principle as it requires students to apply their knowledge to solve problems,” the professor said, while agreeing to the fact that implementing these types of examinations on a large scale can pose logistical challenges.

He mentioned that transitioning from a competitive exam environment to higher education has its challenges as students may struggle to shift their focus from preparing for the exam to long-term retention of knowledge. However, those who understand the enduring importance of their studies beyond exams are more likely to excel in their careers and lives.

Expansion plans on anvil, but prioritising student well-being crucial

Prof Bhagwat said that increasing the number of seats is linked to additional faculty, classrooms, and hostels. “While expansion plans are on the anvil, our current focus is on maintaining a good student-to-teacher ratio, flexible course options and ensuring adequate facilities. We also prioritise student well-being, provide mental health support through dedicated counsellors, and address language barriers through specialised assistance outside the classrooms,” the professor added.