Jamia-tul-Hind is implementing a Choice Based Credit System.

Published on: August 25, 2025

A significant reform in the examination system

Kozhikode | In tune with the demands of the modern era, Jamia-tul-Hind Al-Islamiya is introducing the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS) as part of a broader reform of its academic and evaluation methods.Starting this academic year, the CBCS will be implemented across Higher Secondary levels (Years 1, 2, and 3) as well as the Bachelor's (Baccalaureate/Degree) levels (Years 1, 2, and 3). The final approval for this academic innovation was granted during a Senate meeting chaired by Jamia Registrar Sayyid Ibrahimul Khaleelul Bukhari, marking a major milestone in the institution's academic reform journey.

Going forward, all examinations under Jamia-tul-Hind will be conducted based on the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS) in over 300 affiliated colleges across Kerala and other parts of India.This marks the first time an Islamic university in India is implementing such a system. Widely accepted in international academic circles, the CBCS is expected to bring numerous benefits to both students and institutions. In addition to globally recognized scorecards and certificates, the system allows students to customize the pace of their learning based on their intellectual capabilities and potential.

It offers flexibility to complete more within a shorter time or to extend the duration of study if needed. According to officials, under the new framework, a five-year Baccalaureate course can be completed in four years or extended up to six years, providing greater academic freedom and personalization.

Additionally, the system offers students the flexibility to choose a convenient sequence for completing their courses. It allows core courses to be postponed to earlier or later years, and major courses to be shifted to adjacent academic years. This flexibility enables students from two different batches to study core course materials together when needed, and creates opportunities for students from three batches to study major course materials simultaneously.

With the implementation of the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS), students at each institution will now have the opportunity to study and earn marks through textbooks that are part of institution-specific syllabi. Based on students’ interests and preferences, institutions can select textbooks from a list of courses recommended by Jamia, which will then become part of the official program.

To support this, various elective courses are also being introduced. Moreover, the system allows students to focus more deeply on subjects of their interest, enabling them to gain in-depth knowledge. Books or subjects that require more attention and study time will be assigned higher credit values, allowing students to earn more points accordingly.

Through the provision of extra credit opportunities, the new system integrates social and cultural activities, practical courses, and fieldwork into the academic framework. Research projects and dissertations are awarded special credits, thereby encouraging research excellence among students. Additionally, a wide range of Ability Enhancement Courses (AECs) have been introduced to further develop students’ skills and competencies.
 

Under the new system, subjects that require written examinations are categorized into three types: Core Courses, Major Courses, and Elective Courses.

Core and Major Courses are directly examined by Jamia and are mandatory for all students.

Elective Courses must be selected by students—10 electives at the degree level and 4 at the higher secondary level. These exams are conducted by the respective institutions, although Jamia will provide the timetable and question papers.

Students are allowed flexibility in course scheduling:

Core courses can be taken in the preceding year.

Major courses may be advanced or deferred by a year.

Elective courses can be studied and completed in any year before the program ends.

Some practical subjects are also part of the curriculum. With the introduction of the Credit-Based System, evaluation in all subjects will now be credit-based. Credit allocation is determined by factors like class hours and the academic/social importance of each subject.

At the end of each semester, students will receive an SGPA (Semester Grade Point Average), and upon completion of the program, a CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) will be displayed on the grade card. Credits earned for elective courses will also be included on the grade card. At the higher secondary level, a grading system will be used instead of credits, showing marks and grades from A+ to D+ on a separate mark list.

As per the new process:

Students must apply for exams online, and their applications must be approved by the principal of the institution. Only then will they be eligible to sit for the exams.

Semester exams, held twice a year, will follow a public exam format.

Students who do not secure the required credits will have to wait until the following year to reattempt the exam.

Jamia-tul-Hind is also introducing a robust internal marking system starting this year.

Students in the 4th and 5th years of the Baccalaureate (Degree) program must submit research dissertations in three subjects.

In the other years, assignments are required.

Before receiving the final degree certificate, every student must submit a dissertation of no less than 100 pages.

Certain subjects will also be assessed through open book exams, where students are allowed to refer to their textbooks during the exam.

Additionally, an oral viva will be conducted every year.

The new system also includes Ability Enhancement Courses that equip modern religious students with all the essential skills they need. These courses cover writing, public speaking, research, organization, social service, and various languages. In addition, they incorporate courses that are mandatory for students specializing in religious-physical integration.

Through this program, students will have the opportunity to study numerous disciplines such as economics, social sciences, philosophy, psychology, and law from an Islamic perspective.

A detailed manual explaining the Choice Based Credit System is available on the Jamia-tul-Hind website. Furthermore, zonal training programs are being organized centered around each Jamia department. These training sessions will take place in the zones of Kasaragod, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Thrissur, and Kollam.

Officials have also announced that the zonal training for Jamia teachers from Palakkad, Thrissur, and Ernakulam districts will begin on the 27th of this month in Thrissur, marking the official start of the zonal training programs.