The department increased 1,216 seats in state public universities, 4,684 in government colleges, 3,416 in aided-488 category colleges, and 1,056 in aided-662 category colleges.
State Govt approved the addition of 10, 372 seats in UG courses: The Government of Odisha has approved the enhancement of 10,372 undergraduate seats across the state across higher education institutions for the academic session 2026-27.
According to the Higher Education Department’s notification dated June 18, 2026, the decision was taken after reviewing admission data of previous academic sessions. The department observed high demand for admission in certain UG subjects as compared to the sanctioned strength. After considering student demand and requirements, the government has enhanced sanctioned strength in selected UG subjects of State Public Universities, Government Colleges, and Aided Colleges. The revised seat strength has already been incorporated into the SAMS portal for the current admission season.
The department increased 1,216 seats in state public universities, 4,684 in government colleges, 3,416 in aided-488 category colleges, and 1,056 in aided-662 category colleges. Officials said the expansion will help accommodate more students in popular subjects and reduce admission pressure in high-demand courses.
Joint Secretary to the Government, Smt. Mousumi Nayak stated that the move reflects the state’s commitment to strengthening higher education infrastructure and aligning capacity with student interest. Regional Directors of Education and college principals have been directed to implement the revised seat matrix immediately. The notification has been sent to Regional Directors of Education at Bhubaneswar, Balasore, Berhampur, Jeypore and Sambalpur, along with PG Council Chairmen and Principals of concerned institutions for implementation.
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