In a bold move to prioritize local students, the Andhra Pradesh government has scrapped the 15% non-local quota for admissions across all higher education institutions in the state. Starting from the 2025–26 academic year, 100% of seats in universities and colleges—government, aided, and private—will be reserved exclusively for students domiciled in Andhra Pradesh.
What Was the Non-Local Quota?
Since the 1974 Andhra Pradesh Educational Institutions (Regulation of Admissions) Order, 15% of seats in courses like MBBS, B.Tech, and pharmacy were set aside for students from outside Andhra Pradesh. This aimed to foster diversity and promote national integration. However, local students and political groups have long criticized the policy for limiting access to high-demand courses at premier institutions like:
- Sri Venkateswara University
- Andhra University
- State government medical colleges
Government’s Objectives Behind the Move
The decision, announced on May 15, 2025, and led by the NDA coalition government, follows years of demands from students and regional stakeholders. Key objectives include:
- Prioritizing local students amid intense competition for limited professional course seats.
- Addressing regional sentiments post the 2014 bifurcation and loss of Hyderabad.
- Ensuring equitable access for rural and economically weaker students.
Expected Impact on Students and Institutions
- 15% More Seats for Locals: Thousands of additional seats will now be available to AP students annually. For example, 300–400 more MBBS seats could be reserved for locals.
- Reduced Campus Diversity: Critics argue this may impact cultural diversity and academic exchange, especially in top institutions.
- Operational Adjustments: Colleges must revise admission systems and the AP State Council of Higher Education (APSCHE) will issue detailed guidelines on verifying local status via domicile documents or school records.
- Possible Legal Challenges: Similar quotas in other states have been challenged in court, raising questions on constitutional validity and equal opportunity rights.
Broader Educational Strategy
The policy comes as Andhra Pradesh ramps up investments in new medical and engineering colleges. By reserving all seats for residents, the government seeks to maximize returns on educational infrastructure and ensure long-term skill development within the state.
Next Steps
The Education Department will soon release detailed eligibility criteria, address transitional concerns, and conduct awareness workshops for institutions. The policy marks a major shift in regional education governance, with implications that will be closely watched by students, educators, and legal experts nationwide.
