TV
In recent years, an increasing number of students in Odisha and across India have been choosing to drop an academic year after completing their Class 12 board examinations to focus exclusively on preparing for highly competitive entrance exams. This decision, often referred to as taking a “gap year” or “drop year,” is particularly common among aspirants of engineering, medical, and other professional courses.
Competitive Exams Driving the Decision
The phenomenon has gained traction due to the rising difficulty and intense competition associated with national-level exams such as the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) for engineering institutes like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) for medical colleges, and other central university entrance tests. Students who feel that their current preparation is insufficient sometimes opt to postpone university admission by a year to enhance their chances of success.
Odisha’s Coaching Industry and Student Choices
In Odisha, this trend is visible in both urban centres like Bhubaneswar and Cuttack and in smaller towns, where coaching institutes offering dedicated training for JEE and NEET have proliferated. These institutes provide structured courses designed to help students master complex syllabi, develop problem-solving skills, and manage exam stress. Many parents and students view taking an academic year off as a strategic move to gain a competitive advantage in the highly demanding admission process.
Advantages and Challenges of Dropping a Year
Educational experts note that taking a drop year carries both advantages and challenges. On the positive side, a focused preparation period can lead to improved performance and better rank outcomes, which may open doors to prestigious institutions. It also allows students to identify and strengthen weaker areas in their studies.
On the other hand, there are concerns about the psychological pressure and uncertainty associated with postponing formal education. Some students experience stress, loss of motivation, or difficulties in maintaining disciplined study routines without the structured environment of school. Additionally, dropping a year may result in delayed entry into the workforce, which can have long-term career implications.
Preparing Without a Gap Year and Alternative Career Options
Students can prepare for competitive exams alongside their board studies by managing time effectively and enrolling in integrated coaching programmes. This approach helps them avoid delaying their academic progress while still aiming for success in entrance tests.
Students who choose not to take a gap year can enrol in various undergraduate or diploma courses while preparing for competitive exams. This allows them to continue their education without interruption and gain practical knowledge in fields such as commerce, arts, science, or vocational studies. Balancing academics with exam preparation helps maintain momentum and opens multiple career pathways, reducing pressure and providing options beyond traditional professional courses.
Thus, while taking a gap year remains common in Odisha, disciplined study and exploring varied career routes enable students to progress without postponement, aligning with their long-term goals.
