Journalism test: Confusion reigns

The introduction of an online application process and a stringent eligibility criteria seem to have played spoilsport in the application process for the upcoming common journalism entrance test, which was started this year. Mallica Joshi reports.

The introduction of an online application process and a stringent eligibility criteria seem to have played spoilsport in the application process for the upcoming common journalism entrance test, which was started this year.

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So far, only 1,563 applications have been received and 433 are still under process. The nodal college for the conduction of the joint test is Maharaja Agrasen College, which is one of the two co-educational colleges that offer this course. Delhi College of Arts and Commerce is another.

The application is strictly online but not all students are aware of this. Many have been visiting different colleges that offer this course and also calling the university helpline.

“I am looking for the journalism application form but no college is providing it. I am very confused,” said Megha Nautiyal, a resident of Dehradun, who came to the city especially for the application form.

Also, not many students are aware of the minimum requirement of 70% in class 12 board examinations and 60% in English.

“I wanted to apply but someone told me later that only those people will be considered who have scored at least 70% in class 12. I got only 65%,” said Mannu Yadav, a resident of Noida.

But officials maintained that the process was very candidate-friendly and that they have not received any complaints as yet.

“Students are quite happy. They are getting an opportunity to correct any mistakes they might have made in filling the form even after submitting it,” said Sangit Raagi, nodal officer for the joint entrance test.

All five colleges that offer journalism as a Bachelor’s course are participating in the test. Despite this, the number of applications has been low.

The nodal officials who had earlier said that they were expecting around 4,000 students to apply are now expecting only 2,500 applications.

“After analysis of the past data, we think that around 2,500 students will apply. Also, the applications are expected to spike in the last two days, just before the deadline,” Ragi said.

The last date for submitting applications is June 8.