While some parents argue that genuine candidates have lost opportunities, others say the tighter rules curb unfair practices and ensure a more level playing field
Applications for professional courses under the Non-Resident Indian (NRI) quota in Maharashtra’s private colleges have dropped sharply this year, following stricter rules introduced by the state government to prevent misuse.
Data from the state Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell shows that applications fell from 1,392 in the 2024–25 academic year to just 173 this year — a decline of nearly 90 per cent. Admissions under the quota have also reduced drastically, from 603 students last year to only 38 so far this academic session. A small increase is expected after postgraduate (PG) medical admissions conclude.
The NRI quota allows students who fail to secure seats in the general category to gain admission by paying much higher fees. Until recently, students could apply if sponsored by extended NRI relatives such as uncles, aunts, grandparents or siblings. However, in June 2025, Maharashtra narrowed the definition of NRI eligibility. Now, only students who are NRIs themselves, or whose parents or legally appointed guardians are NRIs, can apply.
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Officials say the move has brought greater transparency
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CET Cell Commissioner Dileep Sardesai noted that most beneficiaries earlier were sponsored by distant relatives, often paying up to five times the fees fixed by the Fee Regulatory Authority
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He said the revised policy would benefit students in the long run
Engineering and PG medical courses continue to attract the highest number of NRI quota applications, although numbers have fallen across all streams. Vacant NRI seats are now being converted into management quota seats, which carry relatively lower fees.
The amendment has been challenged in court, but two petitions have already been dismissed by the Bombay High Court and its Aurangabad bench, which upheld the state’s policy. While some parents argue that genuine candidates have lost opportunities, others say the tighter rules curb unfair practices and ensure a more level playing field.
