Gurpreet Singh :- Panjab University has introduced significant changes to its NRI quota admission policy for the 2026-27 academic session, tightening eligibility norms to curb alleged misuse of the category.
Under the revised rules, only genuine Non-Resident Indians and their children will now be eligible for admission under the NRI quota. The university administration has excluded extended family relations such as uncles, aunts, grandparents and first cousins from availing benefits under the category.
Despite the stricter framework, the university clarified that the existing provision of 10 per cent additional seats reserved for NRIs and their wards will continue. Besides this, 25 per cent seats will remain reserved for foreign nationals.
Mandatory Documents to Verify NRI Status
Students seeking admission under the NRI category will now be required to submit valid documentary proof confirming their status. These documents include passports, visas and proof of residence abroad. University officials said admissions would only be processed after proper verification of the submitted records.
Separate Hostel Facilities for International Students
The university has also made dedicated residential arrangements for NRI and international students on the campus. Around 55 hostel rooms have been earmarked for such students, equipped with facilities including Wi-Fi internet, dining halls, mess services, canteen facilities, clean drinking water and air coolers.
Indoor sports infrastructure, including badminton and volleyball facilities, has also been made available to ensure a comfortable campus environment for students coming from abroad.
Move Aimed at Ensuring Transparency
University authorities maintained that the revised admission policy is intended to bring greater transparency and fairness to the NRI admission process while ensuring that only deserving candidates benefit from the reserved quota.
