Amid growing concerns over the high stress levels associated with entrance exams, India’s education system is rethinking its approach to these assessments.
For years, entrance exams have primarily focused on rote learning and memorization. Still, education experts and policymakers advocate for a shift toward evaluations that emphasise creativity, analytical skills, and practical knowledge.
A chorus of voices, including prominent education reformists, has emerged, calling for exams that reduce pressure on students and foster a learning environment that values critical thinking over memorization. An influential education expert, Dr Sandeep Singh, stated, “The current system places excessive emphasis on memorization, which leads to unnecessary stress and pressure. Instead, exams should focus on application, analysis, and creativity, not just recall.”
To reshape the assessment landscape, top institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), and various universities are actively exploring alternative evaluation models. These approaches aim to go beyond traditional written tests and include:
- Holistic assessments considering extracurricular achievements, project work, and community service contributions.
- Skill-based evaluations focused on problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity.
- Online adaptive tests powered by artificial intelligence to personalise the assessment experience and reduce test-taking anxiety.
As India Today reports, by adopting these varied methods, institutions hope to support students in developing real-world skills, which can better prepare them for future academic and career challenges.
These discussions align with recommendations from the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasising reducing stress and promoting experiential learning. The NEP advocates for assessments encouraging students to enjoy learning and view it as a meaningful and explorative journey rather than a series of high-stakes tests. Dr. Anil Sahasrabudhe, Chairman of the All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), commented, “Less stressful evaluations will allow students to genuinely enjoy the learning process and organically develop their skills.”
This reconsideration marks a significant shift in India’s educational landscape, moving towards an inclusive, creative, and student-focused system. While entrance exams are unlikely to disappear altogether, these proposed changes signal a shift in priorities toward holistic development, mental well-being, and lifelong learning. The changes promise to shape a generation of students who can thrive in diverse fields, equipped not only with technical knowledge but also with skills and mindsets attuned to the demands of a rapidly evolving world.