Objectives & Scope

The process of conducting examinations, evaluating performance, and declaring results is one of the most significant responsibilities of any university. At Xavier University Patna, our Examination Department is committed to executing these functions with the highest standards of precision, fairness, and objectivity. Our goal is to uphold the credibility and validity of the degrees, diplomas, and certificates we confer, thereby protecting the interests and futures of our deserving students.

To achieve this mission, we have meticulously consolidated all examination rules, regulations, and procedures, drawing from our own established practices as well as adopting best practices from esteemed state and central universities. This comprehensive approach minimizes ambiguity and ensures clarity, allowing our students to focus on their academic pursuits with confidence. At Xavier University Patna, we are dedicated to fostering an environment where excellence thrives, and every student has the opportunity to shine.

List of Abbreviations

Chapter 1 — Applicability and Short Title

These regulations shall be referred to as the Xavier University, Patna, Examination Policy Manual – 2025 and are applicable to all programs and courses offered by the various schools of Xavier University Patna, as well as to all students enrolled therein from the Academic Year 2025–2026.

Any revisions or amendments to this policy will be announced along with the effective academic year and will apply to all students enrolled from that point forward.

In the event of any difficulty or doubt regarding the interpretation of any rule, the interpretation provided by the Vice Chancellor (VC) shall be considered final and binding on all stakeholders.

1. Definitions

• 1.1 Admission: The process adopted by Xavier University, Patna, to facilitate the entry of students into various programs and courses, adhering to the admission criteria set by the university and relevant statutory bodies.
• 1.2 Enrolment: Once admitted, students are officially registered in the university’s records, receiving a unique Registration Number that will accompany them throughout their academic tenure.
• 1.3 Semester: 15–18 weeks comprising a minimum of 90 teaching days, designed to immerse students in a rich learning experience.
• 1.4 Academic Year: Consists of two consecutive semesters—one odd and one even.
• 1.5 Course (Subject): A component of a program with specific objectives/outcomes; may include lectures, tutorials, fieldwork, outreach, projects, vocational training, viva, seminars, assignments, presentations, self-study, rural camps, study tours, etc.
• 1.6 Programme: A collection of courses recommended by the Board of Studies to the Academic Council after verifying requirements and degree norms.
• 1.7 Theory: Classroom/tutorial delivery or other innovative methods.
• 1.8 Practical: Hands-on learning via labs, workshops, or fieldwork.
• 1.9 Project: Application of skills to compile/analyse data or develop models/prototypes relevant to industry.
• 1.10 Seminar / Problem-Based Learning: Reports, analyses, case studies, or mini-projects that present fresh perspectives on concepts/trends.
• 1.11 Internship / Industrial Training: Practical industry experience aligned with program/curriculum.
• 1.12 Examination: Evaluation of theory/practical/tutorial/project via Continuous Internal Assessment (CIA) each semester and End Semester Examination (ESE).
• 1.13 Continuous Internal Assessment (CIA): Fair, unbiased continuous assessment (activity, presentation, assignment, viva, participation in learning activities, and Mid-Semester Examination).
• 1.14 Mid Semester Examination (MSE): Written exam on the theory component, part of CIA (also called Sessional).
• 1.15 End Semester Examination (ESE): Comprehensive evaluation at the semester end for theory and practical components.
• 1.16 Result Withheld: Temporary status due to UFM inquiry or pending tasks required for course completion.
• 1.17 Degree Awarding Semester: Semesters counted toward CGPA for the final degree/diploma certificate.
• 1.18 Convocation: Ceremony at which students receive their degrees upon successful completion of a programme.

Chapter 2 — The Examination Committee

2.1 Controller of Examinations (CoE)

• The Controller of Examinations serves as the Chief of the Examination Department at Xavier University Patna. This officer is appointed by the Chancellor to oversee, manage, and ensure the smooth operation of all examination-related activities.
• The CoE operates under the guidance and directives of the Vice Chancellor, adhering to the regulations established for the conduct of examinations at the university.
• During examination periods, a dedicated conduction team, led by the CoE, will be responsible for managing all aspects of the examination process.

2.1.1 Powers of the Controller of Examinations

• Issue notifications for examinations, process applications, and distribute hall tickets to eligible candidates.
• Implement measures for smooth conduct, evaluation, and timely result declaration.
• Sign transcripts, attempt certificates, migration certificates, hall tickets, provisional results, and mark sheets.
• Officially declare results through formal notifications.
• Authenticate records for verification purposes.
• Plan seating arrangements, assign seat numbers, and issue hall tickets.
• Appoint examiners, oversee paper setting, and manage re-evaluation processes.
• Exercise all powers to conduct examinations and fulfil duties as directed by the Vice Chancellor.
• Be accountable for examinations until results are declared, delegating tasks where required.
• Have unrestricted access to all examination-related information and materials.

2.1.2 Duties of the Controller of Examinations

i. Pre-Examination Responsibilities

a. Planning and Scheduling

• Formulate academic and examination calendar with Deans and HoDs.
• Announce exam commencement dates well in advance.
• Prepare and approve timetables for all programs and courses.
• Coordinate with departments to complete syllabus on time.
• Oversee printing of TR (tabulation registers).

b. Management of Question Papers

• Provide guidelines to paper setters regarding format and difficulty.
• Appoint and maintain a confidential panel of setters.
• Collect papers securely and verify alignment with syllabus.
• Oversee secure printing, packaging, and storage of papers.

c. Logistics and Resource Planning

• Identify and allocate examination venues.
• Arrange materials such as furniture, stationery, and answer booklets.
• Recruit and train invigilators, observers, and support staff.
• Coordinate with IT teams for digital examinations, where applicable.
• Ensure CCTV monitoring, power backup, and security.

d. Communication and Coordination

• Publish exam notifications and lists of eligible candidates.
• Address student inquiries, special requests, and accommodations.
• Liaise with affiliated colleges and external agencies when required.

ii. Examination Conduct

a. Conduct and Supervision

• Deliver sealed question papers to venues on time.
• Supervise opening of question papers with officials present.
• Verify candidate identity with admit cards and attendance sheets.
• Monitor invigilation to prevent malpractice.
• Arrange substitutes for absent invigilators.
• Manage emergencies such as power failures or disturbances.

b. Security and Discipline

• Ensure confidentiality and security of exam materials.
• Document and report malpractice cases.
• Collect and secure answer booklets after exams.
• Maintain CCTV records, where applicable.

c. Special Provisions

• Provide scribes or additional time for differently-abled students.
• Coordinate online proctoring for remote exams.
• Ensure availability of water, restrooms, and first aid.

iii. Post-Examination Responsibilities

a. Processing of Answer Scripts

• Secure storage of answer scripts until evaluation.
• Appoint evaluators and moderators.
• Implement double valuation/moderation if required.
• Ensure timely evaluation and entry of marks.

b. Result Processing and Publication

• Scrutinize scripts for discrepancies.
• Compile marks, apply grace marks, and prepare registers.
• Generate and publish results within timelines.
• Maintain digital and physical result archives.

c. Post-Result Services

• Handle revaluation, rechecking, and photocopy requests.
• Schedule and conduct supplementary exams.
• Issue mark sheets, transcripts, and provisional certificates.
• Prepare performance reports for academic bodies.

d. Continuous Improvement

• Gather feedback and improve processes.
• Ensure compliance with UGC, AICTE, NAAC, etc.
• Maintain audit and accreditation records.

2.2 Formation of Examination Committee

The Examination Committee comprises:

• Vice Chancellor – Ex-Officio Chairperson
• Registrar
• IQAC Coordinator
• Two Deans nominated by VC (rotational basis)
• One expert (Associate Professor level or higher), nominated by VC
• Dean/HoD of unrepresented department as special invitee (if required)
• Controller of Examinations – Ex-Officio Secretary

2.2.1 Powers & Functions

• Arrange and supervise all examinations.
• Review results and submit reports to Academic Council.
• Recommend improvements to Academic Council.
• Scrutinize and finalize examiners’ list.
• Take action against candidates, examiners, or staff guilty of malpractice.
• Form sub-committees to handle UFM cases.

2.3 Examination Core Team

• Vice Chancellor
• Registrar
• Controller of Examinations
• Additional members nominated by the Vice Chancellor, as required.

2.4 Unfair Means (UFM) Committee

The UFM Committee handles misconduct cases and ensures fairness. Members include:

• Controller of Examinations – Chairperson
• Nominee appointed by Vice Chancellor
• Registrar
• Dean of the concerned student
• CoE or Examination Officer – Member Secretary (if CoE absent)
• Additional invitees if required by Chairperson

The committee reviews all evidence and provides decisions on UFM cases. Students may appeal to the Vice Chancellor if dissatisfied.

Chapter 3 — Examination & Assessment Procedure

3.1 Evaluation Scheme

i) Marks Distribution for Theory Courses

ii) Marks Distribution for Practical Courses

iii) Course Having Theory & Practical

3.2 Continuous Internal Assessment of Theory (CIA-TH)

Continuous Internal Assessment (CIA-TH) supports outcome-based education through MSE, assignments/activities, presentations, and participation in learning activities. CIA is conducted by the Course Coordinator with Dean/HoD approval. Consolidated CIA marks are submitted to the CoE before the ESE and displayed in the department/school.

3.2.1 Mid-Semester Examination (MSE)

• Held in the 13^th–14^th week; covers ~70% syllabus; typical duration 150 minutes; evaluated out of 50 and converted as per CIA scheme (unless otherwise specified).
• Paper format as per University template; all eligible candidates may appear.
• Organized by the School under Examination Department guidance.
• No separate passing head inside CIA; generally carries 25/40 weight in CIA-TH (course-specific variations allowed).

3.2.2 Assignments / Activity

Faculty assign tutorials, seminars, field visits, quizzes, etc., weekly/fortnightly and award marks per scheme. No separate passing head.

3.2.3 Class Presentations

Students deliver topic-based presentations (total 5 marks) to develop research, communication, and critical-thinking. Evaluation considers clarity, content, engagement, and Q&A. Feedback is provided for improvement.

3.2.4 Attendance

Marks awarded on semester-long attendance/participation:

3.3 End Semester Examination / Evaluation of Theory (ESE-TH)

• ESE is held at term end for 100 marks (scaled to 60 as per scheme) unless specified otherwise.
• Typical duration: 180 minutes (3 hours), unless notified.
• Dates announced in Academic Calendar / University notifications.
• Written exam at notified centres/halls; CoE administers the ESE.
• Detailed schedule published at least 15 days before the first paper.

3.4 Passing Marks

• UG: Minimum 40% separately in Internal and External; at least 40% in External component.
• PG: Minimum 50% separately in Internal and External; at least 50% in External component.

3.5 Retake Policy

Students failing to meet passing criteria may register for remedial exams in subsequent semesters (classified as repeaters). Actual marks are awarded; multiple grade sheets may be issued until clearance.

3.6 Eligibility to Submit Examination Form

• Minimum 75% attendance (as per University norms).
• All academic requirements satisfied for each course.
• No outstanding fees.
• Satisfactory progress and conduct; not debarred.
• HoD verifies and certifies compliance; those failing conditions must repeat the semester.

3.7 Condonation of Attendance Deficiency

VC may condone up to 10% shortfall for medical reasons (with certificate) or approved national/international events; discretion may be used for cases falling below 67.5% where justified.

3.8 Examination Hall Ticket

Issued to all eligible, carrying candidate details and subject codes. CoE dispatches at least three days before exams (or online). Discrepancies to be reported through HoD.

3.9 Preliminary Arrangements

• Compute candidates by day/session; fix venues based on capacity.
• Issue invigilator orders; prepare hall-wise attendance sheets.
• Maintain answer-book stock register; pre-seal required booklets.
• Publish centre seating at entrance and room charts inside.
• Verify sealed question-paper packets by subject.

3.10 Examination Scheduling & Timetable

• Avoid clashes for regular/former candidates; cross-validate.
• Practical schedules to CoE from departments well in advance.
• Timetable on website & departmental notice boards.

3.11 Exemption for MOOCs / NPTEL Courses

• Credit transfer allowed for approved MOOCs (e.g., SWAYAM/NPTEL) as per guidelines; limits apply.
• BoS chooses advanced/contemporary NPTEL courses; coordinator may be appointed.

Grade Conversion for NPTEL

3.12 Conduct of Examinations & Result Processing

3.12.1 Examination Arrangements

CoE oversees all arrangements under VC’s guidance, including appointment of invigilators and preparation activities.

3.12.2 Examination Duration & Timetable

• ESEs normally twice per year; remedials as needed.
• Commencement dates in Academic Calendar; VC may modify if required.
• Timetable issued by CoE after consultation; posted 2–3 weeks prior.

3.12.3 Modes of Examination

Theory: Written/online/OMR at designated centres; students must ensure required facilities for online mode. Same paper for multi-centre exams.
Practical/Project/Internship: By internal/external examiners as per scheme; mode may be online where approved.

3.12.4 Examination Courses

Only courses listed in the Teaching & Evaluation Scheme are examined; papers assess the taught syllabus within allotted time.

3.12.5 Medium of Examination

English, unless notified. Diploma students may use Hindi or English.

3.12.6 Hall Ticket

• Issued digitally/manually by CoE; must be produced each day.
• VC may cancel for misconduct/ineligibility.
• No entry without valid Hall Ticket.

3.12.7 Seating Arrangements

• Seat numbers assigned by CoE; candidates must occupy allotted seats.
• No entry after 30 minutes; no exit in first/last 30 minutes.

3.13 Examination Session Timings & Bell Alerts

1. 1st Long Bell: 15 minutes before start — entry & answer booklets.
2. 2nd Long Bell: 5 minutes before — get ready for prayer.
3. 3rd Bell: 3 minutes before — short prayer.
4. 4th Bell: Start of exam — distribute question papers; latecomers wait outside (15 min).
5. 5th Bell: 30 minutes after start — no entry allowed thereafter.
6. 6th Bell: 60 minutes before end — early finishers may leave quietly.
7. 7th Bell: 2 hours 30 minutes — no temporary exits allowed.
8. 8th Bell: 3 hours — exam ends; collect answer papers.

Washroom breaks: Allowed after 1 hour 30 minutes and not within the last 30 minutes.

3.14 Provision for Additional Time (Differently-Abled)

On submission of valid documentation at least two weeks prior, eligible students receive additional time (e.g., +20 minutes per hour for learning/physical disabilities). Adjustments may vary per medical recommendations.

3.15 Use of Scribe

• Granted on request to CoE with medical certificate (movement impairment, cerebral palsy, visual impairment, sudden illness/accident, or as approved).
• Scribe must be at least one academic level lower and not from the same programme/specialization.
• Dean/Head selects and forwards scribe details to CoE.
• Separate room and invigilator provided.
• Mode only through writing (no Braille/computer-aided/online/large-print modes).
• No extra fee charged for amanuensis facility.

Chapter 4 — Invigilators During Examinations

4.1 Instructions for Invigilators

1. Invigilators are required to fulfil their examination duties. In case of an emergency, alternative arrangements must be made.
2. All invigilators must arrive at the Examination Centre on time and be present in their respective examination halls at least 30 minutes before the exam starts.
3. Invigilators will collect question papers from the CoE’s office or designated place.
4. Maintain strict silence inside the examination hall.
5. Mobile phones are not permitted.
6. Ensure students are seated as per the seating plan.
7. Check admit cards/ID cards of students.
8. Distribute answer books 10 minutes before the exam and ensure details are filled in. Distribute question papers without delay.
9. Take student signatures on attendance sheets and maintain records.
10. Continuously monitor students and stay vigilant throughout.
11. Conduct regular rounds to deter indiscipline or copying.
12. Do not leave the exam hall. If necessary, permission for a maximum of 15 minutes can be taken with CoE’s approval.
13. Other faculty/invigilators cannot enter without consent.
14. Distribute graph sheets on request.
15. Remain alert to malpractice and report incidents immediately.
16. If a student engages in unfair means, submit a written complaint with the answer booklet, question paper, and material used, and hand over the student to the CS.
17. Any conflict of interest (e.g., close relative as candidate) must be disclosed in advance to the CoE.
18. After the exam, collect and submit answer books, attendance reports, and statements to the exam committee. Obtain signatures for verification.
19. Do not leave exam materials unattended at any time.
20. Return unused answer books to the exam centre.

4.2 Appointment of Examination Monitoring Squad

1. To ensure fair conduct, the Vice Chancellor may appoint a monitoring squad for unannounced inspections.
2. A minimum of three experienced members (internal or external) may be appointed.
3. Squad members will make surprise visits to verify arrangements and integrity.
4. If malpractices are found, they must submit a written report to the Vice Chancellor or Controller of Examinations.

Chapter 5 — Result Processing

5.1 Results of Examinations

The assessment process begins the day after examinations finish, targeting declaration in the shortest feasible time. After processing by the Examination Cell, results are declared as per protocol—typically within ~20 working days.

5.2 Publication of Results

The Controller of Examinations (CoE) submits results to the Vice Chancellor (VC). The VC, in consultation with the core exam committee, authorizes publication.

5.3 Modification of Published Results

• 5.3.1 Genuine errors/discrepancies may be corrected with VC approval following due process.
• 5.3.2 If malpractice or fraud is detected, the VC (on CoE’s recommendation) may cancel or withhold results until resolved.

5.4 Maintenance of Result Records

Results are archived permanently in both digital and physical formats. Amendments require prior VC approval or a designated officer’s approval.

5.5 Debarring & Annulment

If a candidate is later found ineligible or involved in unfair means, the University may annul results and/or bar the candidate (temporarily or permanently) based on severity.

5.6 Result Status

• Pass: All coursework requirements met.
• Fail: Minimum passing marks/aggregate not achieved.
• Withheld: Pending UFM decision as per policy.

5.7 Relative & Absolute Grading

Relative grading anchors grades around the class mean and standard deviation (σ) to mitigate unusually easy/tough papers or lenient/strict evaluation. Pass/Fail safeguards from 5.6 still apply. If the minimum for grade “E” falls below 40, 40 is treated as the pass floor; paradoxes above 100% are capped to 100%.

Where class strength ≤ 10 (theory or lab-embedded theory) or for labs/soft skills/NGCR/project courses, absolute grading is used:

5.8 Result Review Committee

• Constitution: VC (Chair); VC nominee (when required); Registrar; concerned Dean/Head; CoE (or Exam Officer) as Member Secretary.
• All results are ordinarily reviewed by RRC before declaration; the VC may exceptionally authorize release without RRC.
• Adversely affected cases (e.g., abnormal failures/errors/malpractice) are referred to RRC for recommendation.

5.9 Amendments to Declared Results

• 5.9.1 Non-malpractice errors may be amended on RRC recommendation with VC approval (within six months or before the next same-level exam results, whichever earlier).
• 5.9.2 If malpractice surfaces post-declaration, the case goes to UFM; VC may advise amendment accordingly.

5.10 Grade Card

• Issued each semester with course letter grades, credits earned, backlogs, and cumulative records.
• Duplicates issued on application with fee (marked DUPLICATE / TRIPLICATE / …).

5.11 Verification (Rechecking)

Eligible for theory papers (non-online) within the notified window (apply via portal within 3 days of result): ensure all answers are assessed, totals are correct, and marks are properly carried to the cover page. If verification changes eligibility, results are updated.

5.12 Re-evaluation

Apply within 3 days via portal with fee (any number of courses). If the re-assessment differs by ≥ 15% from the original, a third evaluation is triggered; the mark closest to the original is awarded between the 2nd and 3rd. Fee may be refunded if the grade changes.

5.13 Photocopy Access

Students may obtain a photocopy of the assessed answer book within 3 working days of result declaration (fee applicable). Post re-evaluation, objections—if any—must be filed in writing to CoE with the photocopy reference.

5.14 Discrepancies in Question Papers

Discrepancies during an exam are rectified immediately with compensatory time. Post-exam, valid complaints are placed before the VC; a Special Committee may be constituted to investigate and recommend action.

5.15 Grace Marks

• Applicable only to ESE external theory (not CIA/reappear).
• Up to 5 marks to clear one paper, provided the candidate then passes the entire semester.
• Up to 3 marks may be awarded to upgrade to Distinction when a candidate has already passed without any grace; added to the lowest-scored paper and not shown separately.
• Grace marks apply only when the candidate has appeared in all registered papers in that exam.
• Exam Committee may grant additional paper-wise grace for abnormally poor overall results.
• Grace is not a right; the University may revise criteria anytime.

Chapter 6 — Examiners and Paper Setters

6.1 Appointment of Examiners & Paper Setters

• All appointed faculty (paper setters, examiners, moderators, invigilators, tabulators, etc.) must fulfil examination duties as part of their roles.
• The Controller of Examinations (CoE) appoints setters/examiners with VC approval.
• External faculty may also be appointed with VC consent.
• CoE issues official appointments with guidelines for question paper preparation and evaluation.
• Strict confidentiality must be maintained regarding papers, marks, and related processes.
• Failure to submit question papers on time may lead to reassignment.
• Appointees must not have close relatives appearing in the relevant semester.
• Submission deadlines: 15 days before Mid-Term, 20 days before End-Semester.
• Mid-Term: 1 set per subject; End-Semester: 2 sets per subject.

6.2 Guidelines for Question Paper Setters

• Maintain strict confidentiality and prepare in a secure environment.
• Format:
  • Paper Size: A4; Font: Times New Roman, size 12; Line spacing: 1
  • Margins: 1 inch; Header: size 14, bold, all caps
• Follow syllabus fully; align with Course Outcomes (COs) and Program Outcomes (POs).
• Questions must be clear, unambiguous, and varied.
• Ensure layout clarity (main/sub-questions distinct, page numbers, “END OF PAPER”).
• Avoid repetitions and ambiguous abbreviations.
• Graphs, diagrams, maps should be original, photocopy-ready, and labelled.
• Mark distribution must consider importance, teaching time, and Bloom’s levels.
• Include model answers and marking scheme with submission.
• Signed undertaking required with submission.

6.3 Management of Question Papers

• Question papers stored securely with a tracking system for reminders.
• Scrutinized confidentially by BoS Chair or nominee for syllabus coverage, errors, and balance.
• Certified sets sealed and stored securely; one set chosen for printing.
• Printing at a highly secure, access-controlled facility.
• Sealed envelopes logged, organized, and dispatched as per schedule.
• Invigilators collect session bundles 30 minutes before exam start.

6.4 Assessment of Answer Books

• CoE issues assessment orders to approved faculty.
• Reassignment possible if an order is cancelled.
• Eligible assessors include internal, external, ad hoc, visiting faculty.
• Assessment in a central secure facility only.
• Access restricted to authorized faculty and staff.
• Bundles must not leave the facility.
• Marks entry strictly through University portal.
• Confidentiality is mandatory; timelines must be honoured.

6.5 Remuneration & Certificates

• Faculty and staff remunerated per University rates for setting, assessment, and supervision.
• Rates subject to revision by the University.
• External staff may request a certificate of attendance.

6.6 Amendments to Regulations

• Academic Council may revise or amend regulations, schemes, or syllabi.
• Urgent changes may be approved by President/VC based on recommendations, subject to later Academic Council ratification.

6.7 Central Valuation

• Supervised by CoE.
• Timings: Mon–Fri 8:30–4:30; Sat/holidays 8:30–2:30; Sun closed.
• Attendance register must be signed twice daily.
• No visitors; no mobiles/electronic gadgets allowed (except calculators).
• Barcoded answer books cannot leave the premises.
• Examiners under influence of alcohol are penalized immediately.
• Chief Examiner sets valuation scheme and issues instructions; deputies follow accordingly.

6.8 Guidelines for Rechecking/Reassessment

• Application required with prescribed fee (₹500 recheck, ₹1000 reassessment).
• Rechecking: Totals and entries verified.
• Reassessment: Full re-evaluation by another examiner.
• No change if difference <10%; if ≥10%, second examiner involved; if still divergent, average considered.
• Corrections reflected in all University records.
• Not permitted for practicals, viva, sessionals, dissertations.
• Students bound by revised result (even if adverse).
• No merit/medal eligibility if marks change via reassessment.
• No reassessment for reappear exams.
• University may initiate suo moto reassessment if required.
• Major deviations may lead to penalties for original examiners.

Chapter 8 — Examination Disciplinary Committee (EDC)

8.1 Constitution & Tenure

There shall be an Examination Disciplinary Committee (EDC) duly appointed by the Vice-Chancellor. Ordinarily, the EDC shall have a tenure of one year from the date of notification of its appointment. Members appointed to the EDC shall remain eligible for re-appointment.

8.2 Composition & Quorum

• The EDC shall consist of at least three (3) and not more than five (5) members drawn from among University Officials/Teachers and Principals of affiliated colleges.
• The Controller of Examinations (CoE), or their nominee, shall chair all meetings of the EDC.
• Three (3) members shall constitute the quorum for an EDC meeting.
• All reported cases of adoption of unfair means during examinations shall be referred to the EDC.

8.3 Mandate & Decision-Making

The EDC shall examine the documents and materials alleged to have been used by a defaulting examinee, and may grant a personal hearing to the examinee if required. Based on its findings, the EDC shall recommend, on a case-to-case basis, appropriate actions to be taken by the University, in addition to any spot action already taken by the delegated authority.

Ordinarily, recommendations of the EDC shall be decided by a simple majority. If the attending members are unable to finalize their recommendation either by simple majority or by consensus, the matter shall be referred to the Vice-Chancellor, whose decision shall be final and binding.

8.4 Approval of Recommendations

All recommendations of the EDC, along with the comments of the CoE, shall be placed before the Vice-Chancellor for approval.

8.5 Review by the Vice-Chancellor

If dissatisfied with the decision taken at the behest of the EDC, the concerned examinee may file a review petition to the Vice-Chancellor within two (2) weeks of receiving the University’s disciplinary decision. If the Vice-Chancellor is satisfied that the representation has merit, they may, in exercise of the authority vested in them, decide to exonerate the applicant from the charges and inform the EDC of the revised decision.

Chapter 9 — Practical / Viva-Voce Examinations

9.1 The University shall notify the examination schedule for conducting Practical/Viva-Voce examinations at least two weeks prior to commencement. A detailed timetable (subject-wise, batch-wise, etc.) shall be announced by the CoE wherever necessary.

9.2 The University shall appoint Examiners for Practical examinations for different courses/subjects from the panel of examiners submitted by the concerned Chairperson, BoS.

9.3 Whenever Internal Examiners are appointed, all efforts should be made to appoint the faculty who handled the practical classes during the respective academic period.

9.4 Candidates shall be in possession of valid Hall Tickets on all days of Practical examinations. In the event of non-possession or loss, the CoE is empowered to permit the candidate to appear after verifying identity in exceptional cases.

9.5 For smooth conduct of UG practical examinations, the University has introduced a question bank for all subjects of different courses/programmes.

9.6 The question bank for practical examinations of all subjects will be made available to all affiliated colleges.

9.7 Practical examinations shall not be conducted in the absence of the appointed external examiner.

9.8 Practical answer scripts after each examination shall be packed in separate covers and sent to the CoE’s office after completion of all the Practical examinations.

9.9 Marks allotted by the examiners for the Practical and Viva-Voce examinations shall be entered in words and figures on the prescribed format and enclosed in covers prescribed for the same.

9.10 Marks awarded by the examiner must be uploaded online on the same day of the examination, and hard copies of the uploaded marks list shall be sent to the CoE.

9.11 If any candidate is booked under malpractice/misconduct, he/she shall be given punishment as in the case of theory examinations, as detailed in the previous section.

Chapter 10 — Unfair Means

10.1 Acts Constituting Unfair Means

10.1 Indulging in any of the activities listed hereunder during the examination and inside the examination hall shall ordinarily be construed as acts of unfair means:

10.1.1 Talking to another candidate or person, inside or outside the examination hall during examination hours without permission of the Centre-in-charge, Invigilator or supervisory staff.

10.1.2 Writing on the question paper or any other paper any matter relating to a question, except in the answer-book/supplementary answer-book supplied.

10.1.3 Using or attempting to use a mobile phone, pager or any other electronic/communication device inside the Examination Hall.

10.1.4 Making an appeal to the Examiner through the answer-book and/or supplementary answer-book.

10.1.5 Keeping currency notes in the answer-book/supplementary answer-book to influence the Examiner.

10.1.6 Deliberately disclosing identity or making distinctive marks in the answer-book/supplementary answer-book for the purpose of disclosing identity.

10.1.7 Possessing or having access to books, notes, papers, or any material/device which could assist in answering any part of the question paper.

10.1.8 Concealing, destroying, disfiguring, rendering illegible, swallowing, running away with, causing disappearance of, or attempting any of these with material/device used or attempted to be used for assistance in answering.

10.1.9 Exchanging answer-books/supplementary sheets or passing/attempting to pass copies of questions/solutions to any candidate or person.

10.1.10 Receiving or attempting to receive a solution (with or without help/connivance of staff or any person) to a question or part thereof.

10.1.11 Copying/attempting to copy/taking assistance from any book, notes, paper, material, device or another candidate; or facilitating such assistance.

10.1.12 Presenting a thesis/project/dissertation/term paper/practical work-book/field work not prepared or produced by the candidate.

10.1.13 Leaving the hall without delivering the answer-book/supplementary answer-book; sending it separately; taking away/tearing off/disposing of it or any part thereof.

10.1.14 Smuggling into the hall an answer-book/supplementary sheet; taking out/arranging to send/replace or attempting to replace the answer-book during or after the examination.

10.1.15 Approaching/influencing directly or indirectly any paper setter, examiner, evaluator, moderator, tabulator or any person connected with University examinations to leak questions, enhance marks, favourably evaluate or change awards.

10.1.16 Any attempt by a candidate or on their behalf to influence or interfere with the duties of Centre-in-charge, Observer, Flying Squad, Invigilator or supervisory/inspecting staff before, during or after the examination. Threatening, abusing, insulting, intimidating or assaulting any of the above shall be deemed interference.

10.1.17 Writing abusive or obscene language in the answer-book/supplementary answer-book.

10.1.18 Forging or attempting to forge any document relating to the examination.

10.1.19 Indulging in impersonation or arranging impersonation for any candidate.

10.1.20 Any other act of omission or commission that the Centre-in-charge may declare to be unfair means in respect of any/all examinations.

10.1.21 If a candidate is caught with unfair means, the case will be reported to the candidate’s parent/guardian.

10.2 Unfair Means and Malpractice — Punishments

Chapter 11 — Timeline for Various Examination Activities

For smooth conduct of examination-related work, the University prescribes the following timelines/timeframes for each activity.

Chapter 12 — Records and Retention Periods

Chapter 13 — General Provisions

13.1 The President/Vice Chancellor is authorised to carry out amendments or modifications in case of necessity during implementation of this manual. In case of any ambiguity, the interpretation of the Vice Chancellor/Registrar shall be considered final.

13.2 If any insertion relating to examinations is required to be made, the same can be done with prior approval of the President and shall be brought to the notice of the Academic Council in its next meeting.