India’s higher education landscape is undergoing a major shift in 2025 with the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) across colleges. At the forefront of this change is JGSSM College, which has now fully adopted the NEP Curriculum Update for all its undergraduate and postgraduate courses starting this academic year.
The aim of this transition is to introduce a more flexible, student-centric learning model that prioritizes skill development, interdisciplinary education, and academic freedom. Let’s explore what this means for students at JGSSM and how the new semester pattern will work.
What’s New in the NEP-Based Semester Pattern?
Under the new NEP model, JGSSM has replaced the traditional annual examination system with a two-semester system for each academic year. This means students will now be assessed twice a year, with a more modular and continuous evaluation structure.
Key changes include:
-
Two semesters per academic year (odd and even)
-
Continuous internal assessment throughout each semester
-
Credit-based evaluation instead of fixed subjects
-
Introduction of skill-based elective subjects and vocational modules
-
Option to exit with certification after 1 or 2 years with credit transfer benefits
This semester pattern encourages students to engage with their courses more consistently rather than cramming for year-end exams.
Flexibility in Course Selection and Credit System
One of the most significant features of the NEP Curriculum Update at JGSSM is the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) system. Students can now:
-
Accumulate and transfer credits between institutions
-
Choose minor electives from other streams
-
Mix vocational subjects with core academics
-
Take MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) for additional credits
-
Exit after 1 year with a certificate, 2 years with a diploma, 3 years with a degree, or 4 years with a research-oriented Honours degree
This model empowers students to personalize their education based on interests and career goals.
Impact on Teaching and Assessments
NEP emphasizes experiential learning. At JGSSM, teachers are encouraged to shift from lecture-based methods to:
-
Project-based learning
-
Case study discussions
-
Group presentations
-
Lab-based and field research
-
Internship evaluations
Each semester includes mid-term exams, assignments, class participation, and final semester exams, with grades calculated via Continuous Internal Evaluation (CIE). This provides a fairer and more dynamic learning process for students.
Enhanced Industry Readiness and Skill Integration
JGSSM’s curriculum has integrated NEP’s vision of employability. From 2025 onward:
-
Skill-based certifications (e.g., digital marketing, data analytics, Tally, EV basics) are part of electives
-
Semester-long internships are mandatory for final-year UG and PG students
-
Industry-led sessions and guest lectures are introduced
-
Career development cells offer resume-building and soft skill training
-
Startup incubation support is provided for student entrepreneurs
This equips students with hands-on experience before they graduate.
Benefits for Students at JGSSM
Here’s how students benefit directly from this NEP-aligned semester model:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Continuous Evaluation | Reduces exam pressure and promotes regular learning |
| More Elective Choices | Explore different career tracks and interests |
| Industry Readiness | Skill integration and internships boost job placement chances |
| Credit Flexibility | Switch between institutions or take a break without losing progress |
| Personalized Learning Path | Choose combinations of courses and duration as per individual goals |
JGSSM has also launched a student advisory system where each student is assigned a faculty mentor to guide course selections, internships, and personal development.
Implementation Timeline at JGSSM
| Phase | Timeline |
|---|---|
| NEP Orientation Program | May 2025 |
| Course Re-Registration | June 2025 |
| Semester 1 Begins | 1st August 2025 |
| Mid-Semester Review | 15th September 2025 |
| Semester-End Exams | November 2025 |
| Semester 2 Commences | January 2026 |
Students must attend the orientation session to understand credit requirements, registration processes, and evaluation criteria.
FAQs
What does the NEP-based semester pattern mean for attendance?
Attendance remains important. Students must maintain at least 75% attendance per semester to be eligible for final exams.
Can students from previous batches opt for the new curriculum?
Currently, the new NEP curriculum is applicable only to 2025 batch students. Existing batches will continue under the previous structure.
Are internships mandatory for every course?
Yes, internships are part of the credit structure and are compulsory for final-year students across all departments.
Will my degree name change under the NEP?
No, degree names remain the same. However, students opting for research-based fourth-year programs will receive an Honours designation.
Is the NEP model better than the annual exam system?
Yes, it provides flexibility, consistent evaluation, interdisciplinary learning, and better preparation for the job market.
Click here to know more.