PG admissions 2026–27: Higher Education Dept advances schedule, CPET forms open from Feb 27

Bhubaneswar: In a move to streamline the academic calendar and ensure timely commencement of classes, the Odisha Higher Education Department has decided to start the admission process for Postgraduate (PG) courses for the 2026–27 academic session well in advance.

As per the revised schedule, students aspiring to pursue PG programmes in universities and colleges across the state will have to appear for the Common PG Entrance Test (CPET). Eligible candidates can submit their Common Application Form (CAF) through the Student Academic Management System (SAMS) portal from February 27 to March 15, 2026.

The CPET examinations for various PG subjects will be conducted between April 27 and May 10, 2026. Admissions will be made strictly on the basis of the marks secured in the entrance test, officials said.

The department has set a target to begin PG classes in all higher education institutions by July 10, 2026. Officials said the early start to the admission cycle is aimed at ensuring timely completion of coursework, smooth conduct of examinations, and prompt declaration of results.

The initiative is expected to benefit thousands of students by bringing greater predictability and efficiency to the academic schedule, while also enabling institutions to plan their teaching and evaluation processes more effectively.