Chennai, May 11:
Students aspiring for engineering admissions in Tamil Nadu may find this year more favourable, as education experts predict a drop of 2 to 4 marks in cut-off scores compared to last year. The anticipated decline is attributed to a noticeable reduction in the number of centum scorers in key subjects—Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry—in the Class 12 public examinations.
Engineering admissions in the state, conducted through the Tamil Nadu Engineering Admissions, are based on cut-off marks calculated from these three core subjects. With fewer students achieving top scores, competition at the highest level is expected to ease slightly, thereby improving chances for many candidates who previously fell short of their preferred courses or colleges.
Academic analysts suggest that students who needed cut-offs in the range of 195 to 196 marks for competitive courses last year may now stand a good chance with scores around 193 marks. This marginal dip could play a crucial role in determining access to sought-after engineering streams, particularly in top-tier institutions. Similar trends are also expected across other professional courses such as Veterinary Science, Fisheries, and Agriculture, where admissions are likewise merit-based.
Education officials have pointed out that this year’s examination pattern underwent a significant shift. Instead of relying on rote learning, question papers were designed to test analytical thinking, conceptual clarity, and application skills. This change, while widely appreciated for promoting deeper understanding, has contributed to the decline in perfect scores.
The data reflects a steep fall in centum holders across science subjects. In Physics, the number of students scoring full marks dropped drastically from 1,125 last year to just 105 this year. Botany saw a decline from 269 to 39 centum scorers, while Zoology recorded a fall from 36 to 18. Such reductions indicate a broader shift in evaluation standards and student performance patterns.
Experts advise students to take a strategic approach during counselling by closely studying previous years’ cut-off trends available on official admission platforms. Careful selection of colleges and courses, based on realistic expectations and current trends, could significantly enhance their chances of securing a seat.
Educationists believe that the expected dip in cut-off marks brings renewed optimism for students. For many who have worked diligently but narrowly missed high cut-offs in previous years, this shift could open doors to better opportunities and more favourable outcomes in the upcoming admission cycle.