Big Update: Punjab Government Ends Free Nursing Education in Public Colleges

The Punjab government has officially ended free nursing education in government colleges, introducing major changes to the admission, fee structure, and facilities for nursing students. Under the new policy, eligible students will now have to pay tuition fees, while monthly stipends and free hostel facilities have been discontinued. The decision has sparked concern among aspiring nursing students across the province.

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Key Policy Changes at a Glance

Policy Area	New Update
Free Education	Discontinued
Monthly Stipend	Abolished
Hostel Facility	Paid (Dues Applicable)
Eligibility	Minimum 50% in Intermediate
Domicile Requirement	Punjab Domicile Mandatory

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Eligibility Criteria for Nursing Admission

The Punjab Health Department has revised the admission criteria for government nursing colleges.

Students with at least 50% marks in Intermediate are eligible for admission.
Punjab domicile is mandatory for applying to public-sector nursing colleges.
Both morning and evening shifts admissions will be offered under the new structure.

Authorities have clarified that meeting the minimum marks does not guarantee admission due to limited seats.

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Fee Structure and Financial Impact

Under the new policy, students will bear additional financial responsibilities.

Nursing students will be required to pay thousands of rupees in tuition fees.
The monthly stipend has been completely withdrawn.
Students residing in government hostels must now pay hostel charges and outstanding dues.

This shift places a greater financial burden on students, particularly from low-income families.

Gender-Based Admission Update

Specific institutions will follow revised gender admission policies.

Shahdara Teaching Hospital Nursing College will admit male students only.
Other government nursing colleges will continue admissions as per allocated seat categories.

Nursing Seats Allocation in Punjab

Institution Type	Morning Shift Seats	Evening Shift Seats
Government Nursing Colleges (Punjab)	3,100	3,000
Teaching Hospital–Affiliated Colleges	100	100
District Hospital–Affiliated Colleges	50	50

Seats have been distributed to manage demand across different regions.
Admissions will remain competitive due to high interest in the nursing profession.

Impact on Students

Education experts believe the decision may affect enrollment trends.

Financial barriers may discourage students from underprivileged backgrounds.
Competition for limited seats is expected to increase.
Calls for review and student support measures are emerging from academic circles.

Conclusion

The Punjab government’s decision to end free nursing education in public colleges marks a major shift in healthcare education policy. While admissions remain open to students with 50% marks in Intermediate and Punjab domicile, the introduction of fees, removal of stipends, and paid hostel facilities may significantly impact aspiring nurses. Students are advised to carefully review the new requirements before applying to nursing colleges across Punjab.