Jamia Millia Islamia extends online classes, announces virtual exams and winter holiday dates

Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) issued an official order on October 28, 2026, extending its online teaching arrangements, confirming that upcoming end-semester examinations will be conducted virtually, and releasing a revised academic schedule. This decision impacts students enrolled in B.Tech., M.Tech., M.Sc., and B.Sc. programmes for the 2026-27 odd semester.

The university cited the prevailing situation on campus and concerns regarding student safety and security as reasons for these measures. The move comes against the backdrop of an ongoing standoff over demands for the restoration of the Jamia Millia Islamia Students’ Union (JMISU).

Revised Academic Schedule and Online Assessments

The revised academic schedule outlines the continuation of online teaching for the odd semester until November 24, 2026. Following this, practical examinations, fieldwork, project evaluations, viva voce, and minor project examinations will be conducted online from November 25 to November 30, 2026. The odd-semester end-semester theory examinations are scheduled to take place virtually from December 1 to December 24, 2026.

A winter vacation for the university will then be observed from December 25, 2026, to January 12, 2027, with teaching for the even semester slated to resume on January 13, 2027. The full revised schedule is detailed below:

Reasons for the Decision and Campus Situation

The university’s decision was finalized after a meeting attended by deans, heads of departments, directors, and other officials, who reviewed campus circumstances and assessed the suitability for regular academic activities. A JMI spokesperson stated that the measures were taken “as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and security of all students and staff.”

This extension follows an earlier directive for online classes, effective from October 24, 2026, which was initially set to last until November 8, 2026. At that time, the university cited ongoing unrest and the potential for further disruptions as reasons for immediate action. The university’s official website, jmi.edu.in, currently features a notice regarding temporary campus closure and the transition to online learning.

Background of Student Protests and Union Demands

The latest administrative actions by Jamia Millia Islamia occur amid an ongoing standoff concerning demands for the restoration of the Jamia Millia Islamia Students’ Union (JMISU). Students have been campaigning for the revival of the students’ union and the announcement of a schedule for elections. The agitation has continued despite previous administrative measures.

Protests began earlier in the week, reportedly triggered by disputes surrounding student union election results, with allegations of irregularities and a perceived lack of transparency. The All India Students’ Association (AISA) has been a key participant in demonstrations, alleging instances of assault and intimidation. A committee is reportedly being established to investigate allegations of misconduct during these protests.

Previous Instances of Academic Disruption

This is not the first time Jamia Millia Islamia has adjusted its academic calendar due to campus unrest. In December 2019, the university declared a vacation until January 5, 2020, and cancelled all exams due to a tense situation stemming from student protests against the amended citizenship act. A senior university official at the time stated, “All exams postponed. New dates to be announced in due course of time. Vacation declared from December 16 to January 5. University will reopen on January 6, 2020.”

Also, an earlier notice on December 7, 2020, regarding conducting exams in ‘online proctored mode’ was suppressed due to student issues with this format. The university had also apprised the University Grants Commission (UGC) of student concerns and awaited guidelines on the mode of examination.

Further reading

• Jamia Millia Islamia end-semester exams announced: online classes extended till November 24
• Jamia Millia Islamia odd-semester exams shifted to virtual mode amid protests

Written by Nishit Kumar

Nishit Kumar is a senior EdTech industry leader with over a decade of experience in building and scaling education platforms, shaping their product, content, and growth strategy. At FindMyCollege, Nishit oversees content and editorial strategy, guiding topic selection and content frameworks to ensure accuracy, relevance, and student-first value across the website.

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