The Union Budget 2026 is expected to push major changes in competitive exam preparation by promoting AI-integrated learning, stronger digital infrastructure, and skill-based education over rote memorisation. The focus is likely to shift from expanding enrolment to improving quality and affordability, especially for students in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. However, experts believe deeper reforms are needed. Data from the Joint Entrance Examination shows that while seats have increased sevenfold since 1978, the number of aspirants has risen nearly 48 times, intensifying competition. Greater standardisation of exams, early aptitude-based learning, stronger primary education, and better career counselling are seen as critical. Without coordinated implementation, budgetary allocations alone may not deliver the desired ou
Budget 2026 may reshape competitive exams, but challenges remain
