Directive issued to continue cluster admission test in 24 universities

The Ministry of Education has reiterated its directive to all universities under the cluster system to strictly follow the centralized admission process for the 2024-25 academic year.

The initiative aims to address the interests and concerns of students, ensuring a smooth and cost-effective admission process.

Previously, in December, the ministry issued similar instructions. However, some universities have recently announced their decision to withdraw from the cluster system. Despite this, the remaining universities under the general and science and technology categories will proceed with the cluster-based admission tests for undergraduate programs.

The cluster-based admission tests are set to commence on April 25, 2024. However, the exact number of participating universities has not been finalized, as a few institutions remain undecided. Meanwhile, prospective students continue to advocate for maintaining the cluster system to reduce financial and logistical burdens.

The cluster admission system was introduced in the 2019-20 academic year to alleviate the challenges faced by students and parents during the university admission process. Initially implemented in seven agriculture-focused universities, the system later expanded to include Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET), Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET), and Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology (RUET). Eventually, 24 general and science and technology universities adopted the cluster system for their undergraduate admission tests.

This system allows students to take a single admission test, determining their eligibility and enabling them to enroll in any university within the cluster based on their preferences. However, universities such as Jagannath University, Khulna University, and Shahjalal University of Science and Technology have decided to withdraw from the cluster system and conduct separate admission processes. Several other universities are reportedly considering similar actions.

In response, the Secondary and Higher Education Division of the Ministry of Education issued a letter today, signed by Joint Secretary Sharmina Nasreen, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the cluster system. The letter highlighted the system�s significant role in promoting discipline and progress in higher education since its inception in 2020. It also acknowledged the widespread approval of the system among students, parents, and the general public.

The ministry expressed concerns that universities conducting separate admission tests could impose additional financial and mental stress on students and their families while undermining efforts to maintain discipline in higher education. It also noted multiple petitions from parents and students urging the continuation of the cluster system. Approximately 500,000 students are expected to apply for university admissions in the upcoming academic year, with many opposing the decision of some universities to abandon the system.

The letter further stated that the ministry supports the students� demands and will work with universities to address the challenges and improve the system. It emphasized the need for discussions to make the cluster admission process more inclusive, efficient, and error-free, ensuring its acceptance by all stakeholders.