Punjabi University cuts ‘golden chance’ fee by 65%

Following strong criticism from students and teachers over the alleged exorbitant fee for its “golden chance” examination, Punjabi University, Patiala, has slashed the fee by 65 per cent.

The special examination scheme, announced to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, offers a final opportunity to the students who could not complete their degrees for various reasons. Initially, the university had fixed the fee at Rs 50,000 plus Rs 3,000 in taxes, which drew sharp criticism. As per the revised circular, the fee has now been reduced to Rs 17,500 plus Rs 3,000 in taxes.

The last date to apply has also been extended from November 15 to November 21. Exams for odd semesters (first, third, and fifth) will be held in December, while even-semester (second, fourth, and sixth) exams will take place in May 2026. The university clarified that the students who had already deposited the earlier fee might seek the remission of the balance from the department concerned by November 15.