- May 02, 2026
PNN News Desk | Dhaka:
This year’s HSC and equivalent examinations recorded the lowest pass rate in 21 years, raising concerns that a large number of seats at National University may remain vacant for the 2025–26 academic year. Admissions at affiliated colleges have already begun, but due to the low number of qualified students, many colleges and underperforming private universities might struggle to fill even a single seat.
Out of 1,251,111 HSC candidates, only 726,960 students passed, including 69,097 who achieved GPA-5. Additionally, 159,000 students obtained GPA-4, and 139,000 students secured GPA-3.5.
Although the total seat capacity across National University’s affiliated colleges is 946,095, only 704,196 students were admitted in the 2023–24 session, leaving 197,349 seats vacant. Education experts warn that even if all eligible students enroll this year, over 300,000 seats could remain empty.
Uncertainty has emerged among students regarding the admission process. Students must wait until March for the cluster admission tests, whereas National University will begin its admission in December. This situation is causing confusion and financial strain for students trying to decide between the two options.
Student Sabikunnahar Fariha told The Daily Campus: “We are participating in the cluster admission test, but we are also in a dilemma about enrolling at National University. This decision is putting additional financial pressure on our families.”
Educationists also note that National University has increased seat capacity without proper planning, which results in a significant number of vacant seats each year.
National University Vice-Chancellor Prof. A S M Amanullah told The Daily Campus: “Our university will face its greatest financial challenge this year. With fewer students passing the HSC exams, the number of eligible students for admission will decrease, directly affecting admissions and the university’s finances.”
He added: “The university has no dedicated government budget or independent revenue source; all administrative expenses, examination processes, and research rely on student fees. With fewer students, revenue will drop, creating a major challenge for the university.”
Experts recommend careful planning and seat redistribution to prevent such issues in the future.
