AI, cyber security courses drive admission surge at SPPU

Pune: Admissions at the Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) are seeing a tilt towards emerging and industry-oriented courses like artificial intelligence, cyber security, data analytics and blockchain technology. The varsity has witnessed a sharp rise in applications for multidisciplinary and skill-based programmes in line with the National Education Policy.University officials said students are increasingly moving beyond conventional degree preferences and opting for courses that combine technology, research and employability. Along with traditional MA and MSc programmes, newer fields such as bioinformatics, innovation and entrepreneurship, space and defence studies and multidisciplinary sciences have attracted a strong response.The university has extended the deadline for admissions in academic year 2026-27 to undergraduate, postgraduate, integrated and multidisciplinary programmes from May 15 to May 20. Officials said the increasing number of applications, coupled with pending submissions and technical difficulties faced by some students during document uploads, led to the extension decision.The university had first announced the admission schedule on April 11 and issued a revised circular on May 5. A fresh notification extending the application deadline was released this week.An official associated with the admission process said, “The response pattern reflects changing student priorities, with many applicants seeking programmes directly linked to future careers, research opportunities and evolving industry demands.”The admissions, conducted by the postgraduate admissions department, are being carried out through an online entrance examination process. The entrance test will be conducted for 100 marks and the entire application process is online.Meanwhile, the extension is expected to benefit students unable to complete applications due to documentation issues or last-minute delays. University authorities have appealed to students not to wait till the final moment and to complete the process well before the revised deadline.The university is expected to announce the detailed schedule for entrance examinations, merit lists and subsequent admission rounds on its official website in the coming days.Key details* Courses: Undergraduate, postgraduate, integrated and multidisciplinary programmes* Application process: Fully online* Revised deadline: May 20, 2026, till 11.59pm* Entrance examination: Online, 100 marks