Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Combined Entrance Test

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology exists as two separate universities: SKUAST-Kashmir (headquartered at Shalimar, Srinagar) and SKUAST-Jammu (headquartered at Chatha, Jammu). Both conduct or participate in the Combined Entrance Test for undergraduate agriculture admissions. The CET covers B.Sc. (Hons.) Agriculture, B.Sc. Horticulture, B.F.Sc. (Fisheries), and B.V.Sc. & A.H. programmes. A single merit list is prepared and students are allocated seats at either the Kashmir or Jammu campus based on rank and preference.

SKUAST CET tests Biology, Chemistry, and Physics in a 100-question paper. Biology carries approximately 40 questions, while Chemistry and Physics have around 30 questions each. The syllabus is aligned with the J&K State Board Class 11 and 12 curriculum, which has significant overlap with NCERT. Topics in Biology such as plant systematics, ecology, genetics, and human physiology are frequently tested. The exam is conducted in offline OMR mode at designated centres in Jammu and Kashmir.

In many years, a combined merit list is prepared from the CET score, and candidates are allocated to SKUAST-K or SKUAST-J campuses based on rank and stated preference during counselling. Some quota seats are campus-specific based on district domicile. J&K UT government's reservation policy applies, with quotas for Open Merit, SC, ST, RBA (Residents of Backward Areas), ALC (Actually Line of Control), and Ex-servicemen categories. Candidates should verify the current-year counselling brochure for exact allocation rules.

SKUAST CET is moderately competitive. Since the exam is primarily for J&K domicile students and the number of seats is around 300–400 per university, the competition is less intense than national-level agriculture exams like ICAR AIEEA. However, the limited seat count means a good rank is still important. Students who have studied consistently through Class 11 and 12 with thorough knowledge of PCB subjects typically score well and secure seats in their preferred programmes.

SKUAST primarily reserves seats for J&K UT domicile holders. A small proportion of seats may be available for non-J&K candidates through the All India Open Merit category, but these are limited. Since the 2019 reorganisation of J&K as a Union Territory, the domicile law has been revised; candidates are advised to check the current J&K Domicile Certificate requirements and the latest SKUAST admissions notification to confirm eligibility before applying.