From 2025-26 academic year, AP is introducing Common Entrance Test (CET) for nursing admissions

Concerns were raised over the current fee structure Rs.15,000 per year for the three-year GNM course and Rs.19,000 for the four-year B.Sc. (Nursing) course

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

In a landmark move aimed at streamlining and improving the quality of nursing education in Andhra Pradesh, the state government has announced several key reforms, including the introduction of a Common Entrance Test (CET) for nursing admissions starting from the 2025–26 academic year. This makes Andhra Pradesh the first state in the country to implement such a system for nursing education.

Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav, who chaired a meeting with representatives of nursing colleges at Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences, said that the government is determined to put nursing education back on track and ensure higher standards. Representatives from nursing colleges across all 13 districts participated in the discussions and welcomed the government's proactive measures.

One of the major decisions taken at the meeting was to shift the academic calendar forward from the usual November admissions to July starting this year. The admission process with the entrance exam will begin in April and conclude by July. The CET will be conducted annually in the second week of June. Only students who have passed Intermediate (BiPC group) will be eligible to appear for the online entrance exam.

Minister Yadav also proposed setting up a statutory Board of Examinations to conduct entrance tests for General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) courses. He approved the suggestion and directed officials to initiate the necessary steps.

Concerns were raised over the current fee structure Rs.15,000 per year for the three-year GNM course and Rs.19,000 for the four-year B.Sc. (Nursing) course, which representatives said was insufficient to maintain quality standards. Minister Yadav instructed a thorough review of the current policy and called for a more realistic fee framework.

The nursing college representatives pointed out that over the years, 52 different Government Orders (GOs) had been issued regarding the establishment and regulation of nursing institutions, often contradicting one another and creating confusion. In response, the Minister directed the preparation of a comprehensive, unified GO to be issued by July.

He also expressed serious concern over complaints of colleges charging fees beyond the approved limit and using coercive methods to extract money from students. “There will be no compromise when it comes to transparency and quality in nursing education. Institutions must fall in line or face strict action,” he said.