In a significant relief for thousands of postgraduate aspirants, the Delhi High Court on Tuesday (18 August 2026) allowed Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) to continue its PG admission process for the 2026-27 academic session using its long-standing deprivation points policy.
A Division Bench of Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia modified an earlier interim order of a single-judge bench that had put the admission process on hold. The court observed that the deprivation points system has been in place at JNU since 1974 and stopping it mid-way would disrupt the entire admission process.
What are Deprivation Points?
Under Section V of JNU’s 2026-27 e-Prospectus, eligible candidates can get up to 12 deprivation points. Each point is equivalent to 3 marks, meaning a maximum of 36 extra marks can be added to the CUET-PG score. These points are awarded mainly on the basis of the geographical location of the candidate’s previous schooling (backward or disadvantaged districts).
Important Condition
All admissions made under the current process will remain subject to the final outcome of the pending writ petition before the single-judge bench. The court has directed the single judge to dispose of the matter expeditiously.
JNU PG Admissions 2026 Live Updates: Delhi High Court Allows Admissions to Continue Over Deprivation Points FAQs
What did the Delhi High Court decide about JNU PG admissions 2026?
The Court allowed JNU to continue the PG admission process using deprivation points, but any admission given will depend on the final decision of the pending case.The Court allowed JNU to continue the PG admission process using deprivation points, but any admission given will depend on the final decision of the pending case.
What are deprivation points in JNU admissions?
These are extra marks (up to 12 points = 36 marks) given to candidates from geographically disadvantaged or backward areas to promote inclusive education.These are extra marks (up to 12 points = 36 marks) given to candidates from geographically disadvantaged or backward areas to promote inclusive education.
How many extra marks can I get through deprivation points?
A maximum of 36 marks (12 points × 3 marks each) can be added to your CUET-PG score.
Since when has JNU been giving deprivation points?
The system has been followed by JNU since April 1974 and has been amended several times by the Academic Council.
Why was the admission process temporarily stopped?
A single-judge bench had stayed the finalisation of admissions based on deprivation points after a petition challenged the policy.
Will my admission be cancelled later if the court decides against deprivation points?
Yes, there is a possibility. The High Court clearly stated that all admissions made now will be subject to the final outcome of the writ petition.
Can I still apply or get admission using deprivation points right now?
Yes. JNU can continue the admission process as per the e-prospectus, including the deprivation points provision.
Who challenged the deprivation points policy?
The petition was filed by Amit Mehra, a PG aspirant seeking admission at JNU.
What should students do now?
Keep checking the official JNU admission portal and e-prospectus for updates. Download and keep all documents ready, and stay informed about further court orders.
Where can I find official updates on JNU PG admissions 2026?
Visit the official JNU website and regularly check the e-prospectus and admission notifications. Also follow authentic news sources for court-related updates.
Where can I find official updates on JNU PG admissions 2026?
Visit the official JNU website and regularly check the e-prospectus and admission notifications. Also follow authentic news sources for court-related updates.