SENSEX
NIFTY
GOLD
USD/INR

Weather

image 18    C

The Times of India

Education / The Times of India

Harvard admissions lawsuit sparks debate: Heres why academic merit matters more than ever for Ivy League hopefuls

A lawsuit by the Trump administration against Harvard University over admissions data transparency has drawn attention, but experts told CNBC that the bigger takeaway for students is rising competition and a stronger focus on academic merit. With race-conscious admissions discontinued and standardized tests returning, Ivy League acceptance rates remain extremely low, reinforcing the need for rigorous academics, strong scores, and focused profiles for future applicants.

23 Feb 2026 11:13 pm
Harvard students struggle with unexpected costs despite expanded financial aid for families earning under $100,000

Harvard College's expanded financial aid policy is causing unexpected costs for some students. Families earning under one lakh dollars are facing issues with asset definitions. This is impacting their eligibility for full aid. Students are finding themselves needing loans or paying out of pocket. Some also miss out on other benefits. The college states its program works as stated.

23 Feb 2026 10:00 pm
Gujarat Police releases provisional list for 472 Unarmed PSI posts, cut-offs announced; check here

The Gujarat Police Recruitment Board has released the provisional selection and waiting lists for 472 Unarmed Police Sub Inspector posts under Advertisement No. GPRB/202324/1 following document verification. Caste certificate scrutiny for reserved category candidates is still in progress, and final selection will depend on its outcome. Category-wise cut-offs for selection and waiting lists have been issued. Candidates may submit objections in person at the Gandhinagar office before the specified

23 Feb 2026 9:03 pm
Assam SLET Admit Card 2026 released at sletneonline.co.in, exam on March 15

The State Level Eligibility Test Commission, Assam (NE Region) has released the Assam SLET Admit Card 2026 on its official website. Candidates appearing for the Assam State Level Eligibility Test scheduled for March 15, 2026, can download their hall tickets using their Email Address and Password. The examination will be conducted offline in two shifts across university centres in the northeast region. A printed admit card and valid photo ID are mandatory for entry.

23 Feb 2026 8:55 pm
Bihar Police Constable Operator recruitment notification 2026 released for 993 posts; check details here

The Central Selection Board of Constables has released the Bihar Police Constable (Operator) Recruitment 2026 notification for 993 posts in the Radio (Technical) Cadre. The online application process will run from March 1 to March 31, 2026. The selection process includes a written examination, physical test and document verification. Eligible candidates must meet the prescribed educational and age criteria. Selected candidates will receive a salary in the pay scale of Rs. 21,700 to Rs. 69,100.

23 Feb 2026 8:37 pm
PNRC result 2026 declared at pnrconline.in; download November NPME exam scores here

The Punjab Nurses Registration Council has announced the PNRC Result 2025 for the NPME examination conducted in November. The declaration includes the much-awaited PNRC 2nd year results for GNM students. Candidates can check their marks online and proceed with promotion, clinical training, or supplementary preparation. With the results released on time, nursing institutes across Punjab can continue their academic schedule without disruption.

23 Feb 2026 8:18 pm
IGNOU to host mega campus recruitment drive for students and alumni on February 25; check details here

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) will conduct a Mega Campus Recruitment Drive on February 25, 2026, at its Maidan Garhi campus for students and alumni. Employers from travel, aviation, Ed-Tech, fintech, IT, BPO, banking, insurance and healthcare sectors will offer multiple roles across Delhi NCR. Openings range from customer service and sales to academic and healthcare positions, with salaries offered as per industry standards.

23 Feb 2026 7:50 pm
RBI Office Attendant admit card 2026 released: Direct link to download call letter here

The Reserve Bank of India has released the Office Attendant admit card 2026 on its official website for the upcoming recruitment exam. Candidates can download their hall tickets for the 572 posts, with the online test scheduled for February 28 and March 1, 2026. Essential details like exam date, time, and venue are included.

23 Feb 2026 7:20 pm
IISc invites applications to host MTech Bioengineering students for Summer Internship 2026

The Department of Bioengineering at the Indian Institute of Science has invited organisations to host MTech Bioengineering students from the Class of 2026 for Summer Internships. The department highlighted its interdisciplinary curriculum, laboratory training and computational expertise, alongside a strong faculty-to-student ratio. Students are trained in advanced biological and data science tools. Industry partners can connect with the department and the Office of Career Counselling and Placeme

23 Feb 2026 7:14 pm
Yale School of Management ends diversity-focused PhD Project ties after federal investigation

Thirty-one American universities, including Yale, have ended their ties with the PhD Project. This nonprofit supports underrepresented students pursuing doctoral degrees in business. The U.S. Department of Education investigated these partnerships for potentially violating anti-discrimination laws. The department stated that judging individuals by skin color is rejected. The PhD Project continues its work to develop business school faculty.

23 Feb 2026 7:00 pm
CBSE class 12 Accountancy exam tomorrow: Check final revision tips, previous years question paper PDF here

With the CBSE Class 12 Accountancy exam approaching, students are advised to focus on revising key topics like partnership accounts, company accounts, cash flow statements, and ratios. Practicing solved questions from sample and previous year papers, along with maintaining accuracy and neat presentation, are crucial for scoring high marks. Staying calm and organized on exam day will also be beneficial.

23 Feb 2026 6:11 pm
UP Board Class 12 Maths, Biology exams 2026 analysis: Lengthy Maths, moderate Biology; download PDFs here

The UPMSP Class 12 Mathematics and Biology examinations 2026 concluded smoothly across Uttar Pradesh in the afternoon shift. The Maths paper was rated moderate but slightly lengthy, focusing on conceptual clarity and problem-solving, while the Biology paper was considered easy to moderate and largely NCERT-based. Students found internal choices helpful and time manageable. Question paper PDFs and unofficial answer keys will be released soon, allowing students to analyse their performance before

23 Feb 2026 5:20 pm
BPSC Civil Judge recruitment 2026: 173 vacancies announced, apply February 25 onwards

Bihar Public Service Commission has announced 173 Civil Judge (Junior Division) vacancies through the 33rd Bihar Judicial Service Competitive Examination. Online applications open February 25, 2026, and close March 18, 2026. Aspirants must review the official notification for eligibility, selection process details, and apply within the stipulated dates to avoid rejection.

23 Feb 2026 5:14 pm
JEE Main paper 2 final answer key released at jeemain.nta.ac.in: Direct link to download here

The National Testing Agency has issued the final answer key for JEE Main 2026 Session-1 Paper 2 covering B.Arch and B.Planning. After reviewing objections raised against the provisional key, NTA published the revised version on its official website. The answer key will determine results for one of Indias most competitive entrance exams for architecture and planning admissions.

23 Feb 2026 4:02 pm
TS PGECET 2026 datesheet released: Check important dates here

Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Hyderabad, has announced the TS PGECET 2026 schedule on behalf of TSCHE. Online applications will open on February 27 and close on May 6. The exam sets differential fees for categories and requires 25% qualifying marks, except for SC/ST candidates. Ranks will determine counselling and postgraduate seat allotment.

23 Feb 2026 3:35 pm
Maharashtra HSC exam leak 2026: Two arrested in Nagpur after WhatsApp circulation; no re-examination to be conducted

The Maharashtra State Board has denied any official leak of the HSC Chemistry paper despite the circulation of similar questions on WhatsApp before the exam in Nagpur. Police arrested two individuals after a student was found with a phone containing the material, with links traced to a local tuition teacher. Authorities said the exams integrity was not compromised and confirmed that no re-examination will be conducted while investigations continue.

23 Feb 2026 3:30 pm
TS Inter 1st Year English exam on February 27: From literature to grammar, a complete last-minute revision guide

Telangana State Intermediate First Year English exam is scheduled for February 27. Students can achieve high marks by focusing on clear, structured answers and textbook content. Teachers advise understanding the marking scheme and practicing grammar daily. Neat presentation and attempting all questions are crucial for success. This approach can turn the exam into a scoring opportunity.

23 Feb 2026 3:29 pm
IIT Madras introduces flexible BS programme in Management and Data Science with open access admissions

IIT Madras has launched a flexible BS in Management and Data Science, open to all Class 12 graduates without age or seat limits. Beginning June 2026, the hybrid programme combines business strategy with analytics to prepare students for data-driven careers. Admission is through a qualifier process, with JEE Advanced candidates eligible for direct entry. With term-wise fees, online learning and Sunday exams, the programme offers an accessible pathway to IIT education and industry-relevant skills.

23 Feb 2026 3:00 pm
JNUs UGC equity row: What really exploded on campus at midnight?

A late-night protest march at Jawaharlal Nehru University turned violent, leaving several students injured and the campus on edge. Rival student groups traded blame over stone pelting and alleged attacks, while the unrest stemmed from demands for the Vice-Chancellors resignation over controversial remarks and disciplinary actions, deepening tensions across the university.

23 Feb 2026 2:31 pm
MCL recruitment 2026: Notification released for 667 technical and non-technical posts, apply online March 16 onwards

Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) has announced recruitment for 667 technical and non-technical posts, with applications opening March 16, 2026, and closing April 6, 2026. The selection process will solely rely on a Computer Based Test (CBT), with no interviews. Candidates are urged to review eligibility criteria and age limits before applying.

23 Feb 2026 2:22 pm
UP Board UPMSP Class 10 English paper analysis 2026: Direct textbook questions make exam easier; download PDF here

The UP Board Class 10 English exam, conducted on 23 February 2026 by the Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad, was rated easy to moderate by students and teachers. Most questions were textbook-based and manageable within the allotted time. Subject teacher Rachna Bhati of Ram Richhpal Inter College described the paper as balanced and student-friendly. The morning shift hosted Class 10 English, while the afternoon session conducted Class 12 Mathematics and Biology exams.

23 Feb 2026 2:10 pm
CUET UG 2026 registration window reopens: Apply online before this date, check direct link

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has reopened the application window for CUET-UG 2026 until February 26, offering a final chance for candidates to register. The entrance test is tentatively scheduled from May 11 to May 31, 2026. Applicants are urged to fill in details accurately as no correction facility will be available post-submission.

23 Feb 2026 1:44 pm
Skills are visible, careers are not: Why only 1 in 10 can actually get hired in 2026

The Economic Access Report 2026 by Women in Cloud highlights a growing navigation gap in the AI-driven economy, where opportunities and learning resources are widely available but career pathways remain unclear. The study finds only one in ten professionals understand how to get hired, while many struggle to connect skills, networks, and credentials to real outcomes. The findings offer key guidance for freshers to adopt a more strategic, role-focused approach to career planning.

23 Feb 2026 1:15 pm
CBSE activates OSM monitoring portal: Principals asked to ensure all Class 11, 12 teachers complete mock evaluation

CBSE has launched a dedicated OSM dashboard for Principals and Heads of School to monitor the online marking mock evaluation process. This tool allows them to track teacher participation, update contact details in OASIS, and ensure all Class XI and XII teachers complete the mandatory practice session for the upcoming main evaluation.

23 Feb 2026 1:15 pm
KCET 2026 registration window closes on this date: Check how to apply before deadline, required documents here

The KCET 2026 registration deadline is February 27, 2026, with fee payment accepted until March 3. Aspiring students for engineering, pharmacy, and other professional courses in Karnataka must apply online via the official portal. Candidates are urged to prepare necessary documents and verify details before submission to ensure a smooth admission process.

23 Feb 2026 12:47 pm
UPSC CSE application window 2026 closing tomorrow: Check direct link to apply here

The Union Public Service Commission will shut registrations for CSE and IFS 2026 at 6 PM today. The drive seeks to fill 933 civil services posts through a multi-stage process beginning with the May 24 preliminary exam. Graduates aged 2132 can apply online, with fee exemptions for PH/PWD candidates and reserved category relaxations as per rules.

23 Feb 2026 11:22 am
RRB Group D answer key 2026 objection window closing soon: Check direct link to challenge here

The Railway Recruitment Board will shut the RRB Group D Answer Key 2026 objection window on February 23 at 5 pm. Open since February 17, the facility allowed candidates to challenge provisional answers by paying Rs. 50 per question. Valid objections will receive refunds. Applicants must submit challenges online through their respective regional RRB websites.

23 Feb 2026 10:38 am
RMPSU result 2026 released at rmpssu.ac.in: Direct link to download here

Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh University has released postgraduate results for the 202526 session, including Semester-III M.A. scores in key humanities subjects and Semester-I results under the Samarth system. Published between February 19 and 21, 2026, the results are available online. Students can access and download their marksheets through the Result Declared section on the official portal.

23 Feb 2026 9:11 am
CTET answer key 2026 expected to be released this week: Check steps to download here

The CTET 2026 provisional answer key is expected between February 18 and 23 following the February 78 examination conducted by CBSE. After release, candidates can raise objections within a short window by submitting proof and paying a fee. The final key will follow review, with results likely in early March.

23 Feb 2026 8:43 am
SSC CHSL result 2026 expected to be released soon at ssc.gov.in: Check steps to download and other details here

The SSC CHSL 2025 result is expected to be released soon on the official SSC website, ssc.gov.in. Conducted from November 12 to November 30, the exam attracted over 30 lakh candidates competing for 3,131 government vacancies. Successful candidates will move to skill or typing tests, where final selection will depend on overall performance across stages.

23 Feb 2026 8:06 am
NEET MDS 2026 registration to begin soon at natboard.edu.in: Check who can apply online

NEET MDS 2026 registration is opening soon. The exam is scheduled for May 2, 2026. Aspiring dentists with a BDS degree and completed internship can apply online. The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences will conduct the computer-based test. Candidates should prepare for 240 multiple-choice questions within three hours. Detailed information will be available on the official NBEMS website.

22 Feb 2026 8:40 pm
Columbia University launches free expression initiative amid campus speech tensions

The Knight First Amendment Institute has launched Reconstructing Free Expression to strengthen First Amendment protections amid campus tensions. This research initiative will examine legislation and institutional practices, aiming to provide a blueprint for policymakers and universities. The program seeks to address weaknesses in how free speech rights are defended and enforced.

22 Feb 2026 7:00 pm
AIBE 21 on June 7: BCI issues strict exam day guidelines, registration open till April 30 at allindiabarexamination.com

The All India Bar Examination (AIBE) 21 is scheduled for June 7, 2026, with online registration open until April 30, 2026. Candidates must bring a printed admit card and valid photo ID, with electronic devices strictly prohibited. The exam will be offline, requiring answers on OMR sheets using a blue or black ballpoint pen.

22 Feb 2026 6:05 pm
MMDRA AE JE recruitment 2026: Check steps to apply and direct link to apply

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has announced recruitment for 235 posts across technical and non-technical categories. Applications are open from February 18 to March 20, 2026. Candidates aged 1838 years can apply through the official portal. Selection will be based on a CBT exam, skill test (if required), and document verification.

22 Feb 2026 4:04 pm
PNRD Assam Recruitment 2026: Application begins for 1,508 posts in Panchayat, direct link to apply here

Assam's Panchayat & Rural Development Department is hiring 1,508 contractual staff for rural schemes like MGNREGA and PMAY-G. Applications are open online from February 22 to March 22, 2026. These positions are temporary and tied to scheme durations, with no guarantee of continuation. Interested Indian citizens should apply via the official website.

22 Feb 2026 3:53 pm
JEE Main 2026 session 2 form correction to begin February 27 onwards: NTA issues notice on list of editable fields

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has opened the JEE Main 2026 application correction window from February 27 to February 28, 2026. Candidates can edit specific details like name, category, and educational qualifications on the official website. Any additional fees due to changes must be paid online for corrections to be valid.

22 Feb 2026 3:26 pm
IIT JAM answer key 2026 expected to be released soon at jam2026.iitb.ac.in: Check details here

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has released the IIT JAM 2026 response sheet, enabling candidates to review their recorded answers from the February 15 examination. The provisional answer key is expected soon, which will help aspirants calculate probable scores, raise objections if necessary, and prepare strategically for results and subsequent admission counselling.

22 Feb 2026 3:23 pm
10 government jobs to apply now: Over 60,000 vacancies open across UPSC, Railways, RBI, Army and state services

Over 60,000 government job vacancies are currently open across central and state departments, offering diverse roles from civil services to banking and healthcare. Aspirants with various educational backgrounds can apply for positions in prestigious organizations like UPSC, Indian Navy, and Railway Recruitment Boards. These recruitments promise structured career growth and job stability.

22 Feb 2026 3:09 pm
Bank of India Credit Officer admit card 2026 released: Direct link to download hall tickets here

Bank of India has released admit cards for 514 Credit Officer positions. Candidates preparing for the March 1, 2026, online examination can download their hall tickets from the official website. This crucial document is mandatory for entry, so ensure all details are verified promptly. The exam covers English, Reasoning, Aptitude, and Professional Knowledge.

22 Feb 2026 1:44 pm
GATE answer key, response sheets 2026 released at gate2026.iitg.ac.in: Direct link to download here

The Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati has published the provisional GATE 2026 answer keys and response sheets for exams held in February across 30 subjects. Candidates can download them from the official portal and estimate scores using the marking scheme. An objection window has also opened, with the final result to be based on the revised key.

22 Feb 2026 1:38 pm
ISRO opens YUVIKA 2026, sets strict merit criteria to scout Class 9th talent for space science

The Indian Space Research Organisation has launched YUVIKA 2026 to introduce Class 9 students to space science and technology. Selection will be merit-based, with added weightage for rural students and extracurricular achievements. The programme will run at nine ISRO centres, with travel, accommodation and course expenses fully covered by the agency.

22 Feb 2026 1:16 pm
RBI Office Attendant admit card 2026 to be released shortly at rbi.org.in: Check how to download hall tickets

The RBI Office Attendant Admit Card 2026 will be released soon on rbi.org.in for the online examination scheduled for February 28 and March 1, 2026. Candidates must download their hall tickets and carry a valid photo ID to the exam centre. The recruitment process includes an online written exam and a Language Proficiency Test.

22 Feb 2026 1:15 pm
Odisha scraps state-level entry, makes NCET 2026 sole gateway for 4-year ITEP admissions from 202627

The Higher Education Department of Odisha has declared that admissions to the 4-Year Integrated Teacher Education Programme from 202627 will be based solely on NCET 2026 scores conducted by the National Testing Agency. Applications open February 12 and close March 10, with the exam tentatively set for April 17 in CBT mode. Other teacher education courses will continue under the existing SAMS process.

22 Feb 2026 12:51 pm
Stanford University offers free online courses in cybersecurity, SQL, IoT and more: Here is what students should know

Stanford University is providing global access to a variety of online courses taught by its faculty. These programs cover computer science, cybersecurity, and career planning, with most content available for free in audit mode. While certificates may incur a fee, learners can gain valuable skills from these official Stanford platforms.

22 Feb 2026 12:37 pm
OSSSC Junior Assistant recruitment 2026: Apply online before March 8, direct link here

Odisha Subordinate Staff Selection Commission is recruiting 1,237 Junior Assistants. Graduates can apply online until March 6, 2026, with applications due March 8. The selection involves a written exam and skill test, offering a monthly salary of 19,900-63,200. Candidates need Odia language proficiency and must meet age criteria.

22 Feb 2026 11:42 am
CBSE Class 10 Science exam 2026: Expert-backed last-minute strategy to maximise scores, check most expected questions here

With the CBSE Class 10 Science exam scheduled for February 25, 2026, experts have urged students to prioritise NCERT-based revision and strategic practice. The paper will feature 39 compulsory questions across Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Educator Ms Niyati emphasised conceptual clarity, balanced equations, accurate diagrams and formula-based problem-solving as key to maximising scores.

22 Feb 2026 11:41 am
ICMAI CMA June exam schedule 2026 released: Check details here

The Institute of Cost Accountants of India has announced the CMA June 2026 examination schedule for Foundation, Intermediate and Final courses. Exams will run from June 11 to June 18, with the Foundation test on June 14. Registration deadlines fall in April, with late fees applicable thereafter. Detailed subject-wise dates are available on icmai.in.

22 Feb 2026 10:53 am
UP Police Home Guard recruitment 2026: Check steps to apply and other details here

Uttar Pradesh Police Recruitment and Promotion Board has opened applications for 41,424 Home Guard posts, launching one of the states biggest volunteer recruitment drives. The November 18, 2025 notification outlines eligibility, age limits and a multi-stage selection process comprising written, physical and medical tests. Online applications close on December 17, 2025, through the official portal.

22 Feb 2026 9:34 am
Maharashtra: Suspected Class 12 Chemistry paper leak being investigated by Nagpur cops

Police in Nagpur are probing a suspected leak of the Maharashtra Class 12 Chemistry board exam after questions similar to the paper surfaced in a WhatsApp message on a students phone. The device was seized during the exam following suspicious behaviour. An FIR has been filed, and both police and board authorities have launched parallel investigations.

22 Feb 2026 8:34 am
GATE answer key 2026 expected to be released soon at gate2026.iitg.ac.in: Check details here

The Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati has concluded GATE 2026, and candidates are now awaiting the provisional answer key. Expected within a week of the final exam, the key and response sheet will help aspirants estimate their scores. An objection window will follow before the final key is issued on the official website.

22 Feb 2026 8:16 am