Delhi University CES 2026: Who can apply, fees and admission rules

Delhi University has opened CES 2026 applications for learners to study selected papers alongside regular students. The scheme extends flexible learning to professionals, alumni and senior citizens under NEP 2020.Delhi University opens admissions for any age under CES 2026 scheme. (Photo- ITGD)The University of Delhi has opened applications under its Competence Enhancement Scheme (CES) 2026, allowing learners of different age groups and professions to study selected papers alongside regular students. The official website to register for those papers is ces.du.ac.in.The university has described CES as an opportunity for “Any Course, Any Age”, in line with the lifelong learning objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Interested candidates can check the available papers, eligibility requirements and admission details on the official CES portal before applying.The scheme is aimed at people looking to enhance their academic knowledge, upgrade professional skills or pursue learning opportunities that they may have missed earlier. Working professionals can also apply, subject to submission of a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer.DU CES 2026: WHO CAN APPLY AND HOW MANY PAPERS?Under the scheme, candidates who meet the minimum eligibility criteria and prerequisites of an existing course can register for a paper, subject to seat availability. Admission is based on merit, with the university considering the candidate's age and percentage of marks obtained in the qualifying degree. Candidates can register for a maximum of two papers or eight credits in a semester, from the same discipline. The CES seats are treated as supernumerary seats and are limited to a maximum of 10 percent of the sanctioned strength of a class or six seats, whichever is lower.The scheme is open to working and non-working learners. Candidates already enrolled as regular students at another university or institution, as well as employed applicants, are required to submit an NOC where applicable. Students currently enrolled in a Delhi University programme are not eligible, although DU alumni who have already completed their studies can apply. The university says CES admissions are offered throughout the year, with classes beginning during the relevant semester according to the academic calendar. Since the number of seats is limited, applicants have been advised to register at the earliest.DU CES FEE, CLASSES AND CERTIFICATEThe fee under the current CES structure is Rs 6,100 per paper. Candidates attend classes in the same mode and medium as regular students, and their evaluation follows the same pattern.After successfully completing the paper and meeting the attendance and evaluation requirements, candidates receive a certificate. The credits earned are also deposited in their Academic Bank of Credits account.According to the university, the scheme is intended to help learners continue education at different stages of life, enable professionals to upgrade their skills and give senior citizens an opportunity to enhance their knowledge. It also allows students from other universities to study one or two papers at DU without enrolling in a full programme.The CES initiative was introduced as part of Delhi University's implementation of NEP 2020, which promotes flexible learning pathways and lifelong learning opportunities.- EndsPublished By: Mridusmita DekaPublished On: Sep 3, 2026 12:44 IST