Has CUET Made DU Admissions More Transparent? VC Reveals Data

The University of Delhi admission process has become more transparent, accountable, and data-driven after the introduction of CUET, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Yogesh Singh said on December 17, 2025. He highlighted that the centralised admission framework has brought clarity for students, colleges, and administrators. According to him, every seat allocation is now visible and traceable through a structured system. The Vice-Chancellor was addressing concerns around vacant undergraduate seats in some colleges. He clarified that seat vacancies existed even before CUET, and the new system has actually improved seat utilisation compared to the earlier cut-off-based admissions.

CUET-Based Admissions Bring Transparency Through CSAS

Prof. Yogesh Singh explained that admissions through the Common Seat Allocation System (CSAS) follow a scientific and algorithm-driven approach. Every allocation made under CSAS is published, ensuring transparency at each stage of the process. Colleges are also advised to revisit their seat matrix to optimise seat distribution and reduce the number of allocation rounds. He added that unlike earlier systems, the CUET framework allows the University to track admissions in real time. This ensures that sanctioned seat strength is respected and excessive over-admissions are avoided.

DU Admission Data Comparison Before and After CUET

To support his statement, the Vice-Chancellor shared official data comparing admissions before and after CUET. The figures show that vacancies were higher during the merit-based admission era. Before examining the numbers, it is important to understand that earlier admissions were driven purely by Class 12 cut-offs. Colleges had limited control over seat intake once cut-offs were declared, often leading to irregular admissions.

The data shows that in 2019, 3.56% seats remained vacant, while in 2025, admissions exceeded the sanctioned strength by 0.65%, indicating improved seat utilisation.

Over-Admissions Now Controlled Under CUET

Prof. Singh highlighted that earlier cut-off systems often led to uncontrolled over-admissions. In some cases, colleges admitted 203 students against 11 sanctioned seats, resulting in admissions exceeding 1700%. Such discrepancies are now avoidable under CUET. Under the current system, colleges decide in advance how many additional allocations they are willing to offer. This information is fed into the algorithm, making the process predictable and manageable.

DU Colleges Asked to Revisit Seat Matrix

The Vice-Chancellor confirmed that DU colleges have been advised to revisit and restructure their seat matrix, including adjustments in BA programme combinations. He clarified that no academic course will be discontinued, and the objective is to fill seats efficiently within fewer rounds. He concluded that CUET has made DU admissions more logical, transparent, and accountable, while also enabling predictive analysis to support future academic planning.