Record number of nuns earn Geshema degrees this year

A record number of Tibetan Buddhist nuns have excelled in the 2025 Geshema examinations, achieving the highest success rate since the degree was opened to women in 2012. Of the 161 nuns, who appeared this year, 154 passed, an impressive 96 per cent. The examinations, conducted from July 21 to August 16 at Dolma Ling Nunnery and Institute in Dharamsala, marked a milestone in the continuing advancement of women’s monastic education.

This year, 47 nuns completed their fourth and final year of exams and will formally receive their Geshema degrees at the annual inter-nunnery debate in Bodh Gaya later this month. Their graduation will bring the total number of Geshema degree-holders to 120.

The Geshema degree, regarded as equivalent to a doctorate in Tibetan Buddhist philosophy within the Gelug tradition, was historically reserved for monks until landmark reforms in 2012 enabled women to pursue it. The results reflect steady growth in participation and success. Of the current batch, 44 of 48 first-year candidates passed, along with 32 of 33 in the second year. All 31 third-year nuns cleared their exams, while 47 of 49 final-year candidates qualified for graduation.

Candidates underwent a rigorous month-long preparatory review before the exams, with logistical support provided by the Tibetan Nuns Project and the Geshema Endowment Fund. “Educating women in religious studies is both good and powerful. It enables them to become teachers and leaders at a crucial moment in Tibetan history,” said Rinchen Khando Choegyal, founding director and special adviser to the Tibetan Nuns Project.

Since the first 20 Geshemas graduated in 2016, the numbers have risen steadily, despite pandemic disruptions in 2020 and 2021. Following 10 graduates in 2022, seven in 2023 and 13 in 2024, this year’s 47 graduates represent the largest cohort yet, a powerful testament to the Dalai Lama’s vision of academic equality in Buddhist education.