In Panjab University, the distribution of seats between the Open and Reserved categories is based on established rules. The Open category receives 55.5% of the seats, while the Reserved category receives 44.5%. Separate reservations are allocated for SC, ST, OBC, Persons with Disabilities (PwD), Sports Quota, families of martyrs, and special circumstances.
Panjab University Reservation Rules: Panjab University conducts its admission process for thousands of students every year, where the entire seat structure is determined according to the rules of Open and Reserved categories. A total of 55.5% of seats are allocated to the merit-based Open category, while 44.5% of seats are reserved for SC, ST, OBC, Persons with Disabilities (PwD), Sports Quota, families of martyrs, and other special categories. This system is implemented at the university to ensure equal opportunities for all social classes and to provide deserving students with a place according to their rights.
Complete Structure of Open and Reserved Seats
Panjab University divides seats in every course into two parts. Out of the total seats, 55.5% are for the Open category, which are filled purely on the basis of merit. No reservation of any kind applies to these seats, and all candidates compete equally.
The remaining 44.5% of seats are designated for the Reserved category. The university further divides these seats into various social and special categories. This is why students and parents often want to know how much reservation each category receives and what relaxations are offered.
Quota Allotted for SC, ST, OBC
Among the reserved seats, SC candidates hold the largest share. 15% of the total seats are designated for the SC category, and 7.5% for the ST category. In courses where minimum academic marks are required, SC and ST students are granted a relaxation of up to five percent. However, this relaxation does not apply to professional courses like MBBS.
If SC or ST seats remain vacant, the university attempts to fill them by offering further relaxations to students from these categories. Additionally, five percent of seats are reserved for OBC candidates. They may also receive a five percent relaxation in minimum marks, providing them with an equal opportunity in the competition.
Reservation for Persons with Disabilities, Sports Quota, and Families of Martyrs
The university reserves 3% of seats for physically disabled students. This benefit is granted only if their disability is at least 40% and certified by a medical board. Within these seats, a one percent quota is set aside for visually impaired and low-vision students. Such students also receive additional marks for merit in the Open category.
Five percent of seats are also reserved for students with sports achievements. This quota is allocated to students who have performed in sports at the state, national, or international level. Similarly, five percent of seats are designated for families whose members have been martyred in the Army, CRPF, BSF, or Police, or have become disabled due to injuries sustained during duty. This quota is divided into seven sub-categories, with children of martyrs receiving the highest priority.
Reservation for Special Circumstances
Panjab University also reserves two percent of seats for families affected by the 1984 riots and families who are victims of terrorism. It is mandatory for these candidates to present a certificate from the District Magistrate.
Furthermore, two percent of seats are also designated for children or grandchildren of freedom fighters. The condition is that their family must have received recognition or a pension from the government. This reservation is established to honor the contributions and history of these families.
