CPET 2026 Exam to Begin May 5; Over 58,000 Apply for Postgraduate Admissions in Odisha
The Department of Higher Education, Odisha, has announced that the Common PG Entrance Test (CPET) 2026 will be held from May 5 to May 18, 2026. The examination serves as the gateway for admission into postgraduate courses across state universities and colleges for the 2026–27 academic session.
Key Highlights
- CPET 2026 will be conducted between May 5 and May 18
- 58,708 candidates have applied this year
- 31,915 postgraduate seats are available across institutions
- Admit cards will be released on April 30
- PG classes are expected to begin by July 10, 2026
Application and Examination Process
The application process for CPET 2026 was conducted online through the Student Academic Management System (SAMS) portal from February 27 to March 22. According to officials, the application data will be transferred to the State Selection Board, Odisha, on March 26 for further processing and conduct of the examination.
Candidates who have registered for the test will be able to download their admit cards starting April 30 from the official website of the State Selection Board.
Admissions to postgraduate programmes will be strictly based on candidates’ performance in the entrance examination.
Official Statement
Officials from the Higher Education Department indicated that the examination schedule has been planned to ensure timely completion of the admission process. This, they said, will help academic institutions adhere to the academic calendar without delays.
Context and Background
The Common PG Entrance Test (CPET) is a centralized examination system introduced by the Odisha government to streamline postgraduate admissions. It replaces individual entrance tests conducted by universities, making the process more transparent and efficient.
With a growing number of graduates seeking higher education, CPET has become a key mechanism to ensure merit-based admissions across the state’s public universities and affiliated colleges.
Public Impact
The large number of applicants—over 58,000 for just under 32,000 seats—highlights the increasing demand for postgraduate education in Odisha. The centralized system reduces the burden on students by allowing them to apply to multiple institutions through a single examination.
It also helps maintain uniform standards in admissions while ensuring wider access to higher education opportunities.
Conclusion
The Higher Education Department aims to begin postgraduate classes by July 10, 2026, indicating a tight but structured timeline from examination to admission. With preparations underway, candidates are advised to keep track of official updates, particularly regarding admit card downloads and examination schedules.
Inputs & Images: Hindusthan Samachar
Edited by: Pushkarini Annabathula
Also Read : CTET RESULT 2026 EXPECTED SOON: CBSE LIKELY TO ANNOUNCE FEBRUARY EXAM RESULTS ON OFFICIAL WEBSITE
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Last Updated on: Wednesday, March 25, 2026 7:04 pm by Pushkarini Annabathula | Published by: Pushkarini Annabathula on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 7:04 pm | News Categories: Education
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