Panjab University (PU) has preponed the undergraduate entrance exams for courses in law, hotel management, and sciences. The PU Common Entrance Test (PU-CET) 2025 will now be held on 28 December 2025, a shift from the earlier schedule in May. The five-year law course entrance exam is scheduled for 4 January 2026, while the Panjab University Tourism & Hospitality Aptitude Test (PUTHAT) will take place on 9 January 2026. Previously, these exams were conducted in April and May, with admissions extending over the summer holidays.
University Statement
Jagat Bhushan, PU Controller of Examinations, explained that the change aligns PU with the schedule of other private universities and national exams such as the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT). “Exams are now set during the winter vacation, giving students sufficient time to prepare before pre-board exams,” he said.
Concerns from Students and Coaching Centres
Some students have raised concerns about preparation time, suggesting the new dates may be challenging. Coaching centres have expressed apprehension about the shift. Megha Sharma, Director of Surya Law Academy, Sector 25, stated, “When CLAT shifted to December in 2021, many students struggled to prepare. We anticipate similar challenges for rural students attempting the PU law entrance exam this year.” The five-year law exam is considered the largest law entrance test in the region. Sharma added that crash courses, designed specifically for this exam, may conflict with students’ board exam preparations.
Student Council Response
Gaurav Veer Sohal, President of Panjab University Campus Students Council (PUCSC), highlighted the potential difficulties: “We will assess the pros and cons and, if students face undue hardship, we will advocate for a return to the previous schedule,” he said.
