Are Marks Enough? What Colleges Really Look for in Admissions Today

For generations in India, high marks - particularly in board exams and entrance tests - have been seen as the golden ticket to a top college. The pressure to achieve near-perfect Class 12 scores and ace competitive exams like CUET or JEE has shaped the aspirations of millions of students and their families. But in 2026, the landscape of college admissions is changing rapidly. Academic scores matter, but they are no longer the only determinant of success. Admissions committees are increasingly looking at aptitude, skills, exposure, curiosity, and readiness for real-world challenges alongside marks.

This pivot marks India’s adoption of a global shift toward holistic admissions. Universities increasingly prioritise adaptability, innovation, and well-roundedness over pure academic ability. This article examines how criteria in Indian admissions are shifting - and what students must now emphasise beyond just high marks.

Why Marks Still Matter - But Not Enough

There’s no denying that marks serve as a baseline for many admissions processes in India. Whether it’s Class 12 percentages, CUET (Common University Entrance Test) scores, or engineering entrance outcomes, academic performance remains a significant filter.

For example: CUET, now a major pathway into central universities, is extremely competitive. In 2024, over 13.4 lakh students appeared, and top percentiles became a baseline rather than a standout achievement. In fact, more than 22,000 candidates scored perfect marks, making competition fiercer and high scores less distinctive in admissions decisions.

Similarly, for high-demand technical streams like engineering, examinations such as JEE Advanced remain pivotal. Clearing JEE Advanced and achieving a high rank in JoSAA counselling is essential for admission to the prestigious IITs, and these exams still emphasise theoretical knowledge and problem-solving under pressure.

Today, marks primarily serve as an initial qualifier - a basic eligibility check - rather than a full measure of student potential. The admissions process now considers a candidate’s abilities, achievements, and readiness.

Admissions Beyond Marks: What Colleges Look For

1. Entrance Exam Scores and Aptitude

Even as board marks retain importance, admissions across many courses now require standardised tests. Beyond CUET and JEE, other entrance exams like CLAT for law and IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) for science degrees assess skills relevant to the discipline:

• CLAT evaluates logical reasoning, comprehension, general knowledge, and quantitative ability - skills not captured by board marks alone.

• IAT focuses on science fundamentals and analytical ability, testing depth of subject understanding rather than rote memorisation.

These exams demonstrate that colleges want candidates who can think, apply

concepts, and solve problems, not just reproduce textbook answers.

2. Holistic Evaluation & Profile Strength

Many institutions in India - especially private universities and emerging higher education centres - have begun adopting holistic admission models. These evaluate:

• Academic Consistency: Board and entrance exam performance

• Extracurricular Achievements: Sports, arts, social work

• Leadership & Initiative: Clubs, competitions, and event organisation

• Innovative Projects: Tech innovations, startups, research

Experts say universities want well-rounded applicants. Engineering aspirants can stand out by demonstrating achievements beyond academics, such as in technology, sports, or leadership.

This holistic approach, reflecting global trends, prioritises creativity, communication, leadership, and community impact.

3. Skills, Internships, & Real-World Experience

Skills measured outside marks - through internships, workshops, certifications, or projects - are viewed as strong signs of readiness.

Many universities encourage students to create portfolios showcasing practical skills in areas such as coding, design, research, or problem-solving - indicating passion and readiness.

Employers have also influenced this shift, increasingly valuing practical skills and adaptability over textbook knowledge. Their priorities encourage colleges to reflect similar values in their admissions practices.

4. Essays, Interviews, and Personal Statements

Some universities - especially liberal arts and interdisciplinary institutions - require personal essays, statements of purpose, or interviews as part of the admissions process. These components allow candidates to articulate their motivations and the challenges they have overcome, and essays and similar narrative components add depth to student profiles, revealing traits like motivation, clarity of purpose, and communication that can't be shown. Lone cannot capture.

5. Diversity, Inclusion & Unique Perspectives

Colleges today aim to build diverse and inclusive communities. This goes beyond academic homogeneity to include socio-economic backgrounds, cultural experiences, interests, and perspectives.

Profiles enriched by community engagement, cultural activities, multilingual competencies, and global exposure add value to campuses, further broadening the meaning of “merit” in admissions.

Marks vs Skills - A Balanced Perspective

It’s easy to conclude that marks no longer matter. But that’s not entirely accurate. Marks continue to play three critical roles:

1. Eligibility Filter: Most universities use them as entry criteria.

2. Scholarship Decisions: Good academic performance often enhances scholars. Solid academic performance supports future success in rigorous programs. In rigorous programs.

However, marks alone no longer sufficiently differentiate high-potential applicants in competitive environments. They serve as a baseline - not the full story.

What truly helps a candidate stand out is a balanced profile that combines strong academic credentials with meaningful achievements outside the classroom.

Real-World Stories: Beyond the Scoreboard

Consider these patterns emerging from student experience (reflecting broader admissions trends):

• A student with 85% board marks, high CUET scores, and active participation in social initiatives might receive more favourable consideration than a peer with 95% marks, but no extracurricular activities. Engineering colleges now admit students via multiple channels, creating diverse pathways beyond marks alone. Some top programs, especially abroad or in the arts, require portfolios that highlight creativity, separate from traditional scoring. Final scoring systems.

  
  

Actionable Tips for Students in 2026

Whether you’re planning your 11th or 12th grade now, here’s how to prepare for holistic admissions:

1. Build a Balanced Profile

Focus on academics, but also invest in:

• Sports or arts

• Volunteering or leadership roles

• Innovation challenges or tech projects

These showcase initiative and versatility - qualities colleges value. Key takeaway: Balance academics with experiences that reflect initiative.

2. Prepare Strategically for Entrance Tests

Know the exams relevant to your field:

• CUET for mainstream UG programs

• JEE/CLAT/IAT for engineering, law, and science streams

Strengthen core understanding and exam strategy.

3. Engage in Projects & Internships

Practical work - whether research, coding, publishing, or entrepreneurial ventures - demonstrates real skills that differentiate your application.

4. Practice Communication

Develop writing skills for essays and clarity for interviews. Strong storytelling about your journey often leaves a lasting impression.

5. Balance Marks with Experiences

Aim for good scores, but let grades be just one part of your schooling years. Cultivate mental well-being, curiosity, and growth equally.

The Future of Admissions is Holistic

In 2026, college admissions in India will no longer be defined solely by marks. Selection now requires a meaningful demonstration of aptitude, practical skills, engagement, and potential contribution. Success demands a multidimensional profile - marks are necessary, but not sufficient.

So yes - marks are necessary, but they are not enough. Today’s colleges are looking for learners who are curious, adaptable, engaged, and ready to tackle the complexities of our world.

If you cultivate a balanced profile - where scores support, and skills shine - you position yourself not just for admission, but for long-term success and fulfilment in whatever career path you choose.