SPPU Exam: For thousands of students at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), higher education has suddenly become more expensive. The university’s decision to raise examination fees by 20% for the 2025–26 academic year has sparked a wave of criticism, protests, and anger from student groups who believe the move places an unfair financial burden on them.
The revised fee structure applies across all courses, including those under the 2019 pattern as well as the newer National Education Policy (NEP) framework. According to the notification, signed by Professor Prabhakar Desai, officiating director of the Board of Examinations and Evaluation, the hike is being justified as a necessary measure due to changes in the examination and evaluation system introduced under the NEP.
Why the University Raised Fees After Seven Years
SPPU has clarified that the last exam fee hike was implemented seven years ago, and under earlier plans, fees were scheduled to increase by 15% every two years from 2018 onward. However, the COVID-19 pandemic delayed this process, leaving a backlog of 55% in pending hikes. To avoid a massive jump, the administration approved only a 20% rise this year, arguing that it was a “balanced” decision to meet rising administrative and evaluation costs.
Student Unions Slam Decision as “Financial Exploitation”
Despite the university’s justification, student groups have strongly opposed the move. Siddhant Jambhulkar, president of the NSUI unit at SPPU, accused the university of financially exploiting students. He argued that SPPU is slowly functioning like a private institution, pointing out that additional fees have already been introduced for entrance exams, extra credit courses, and even during professor recruitment.
Echoing this sentiment, Rahul Sasane from the University Student Struggle Action Committee criticized the administration for overburdening students instead of seeking alternative financial solutions. Interestingly, while several unions have raised their voices, the RSS-backed ABVP has so far remained silent on the matter.
The Larger Debate: Accessibility vs. Sustainability
This controversy highlights a growing tension in higher education between ensuring financial sustainability for universities and protecting students from unaffordable costs. For many students, even a 20% hike is a heavy blow, especially when coupled with rising living expenses and the added academic costs introduced under NEP reforms.
The university, however, insists that the revised system requires greater investment in evaluation and infrastructure. The clash between student expectations and administrative needs has once again put the spotlight on the affordability of public education in India.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and student statements. The views expressed by student representatives are their own. Readers are advised to refer to official university notifications for detailed updates.
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