Even though the first merit list is out, uncertainty clouds the calendars of junior colleges thanks to a circular sent out by the director of education, which allows these colleges to commence classes after 50 per cent of each institute’s total admission capacity is filled. The circular reads, “After 50 per cent of the total admission capacity in Std XI is completed or on July 1, 2025, whichever is earlier, the school management can start first year junior college (FYJC) lectures, keeping in mind the educational interests of the students.”

This rule gives a pass to the city’s favoured colleges to kickstart FYJC by mid-July. On the other hand, a few colleges may have to wait for subsequent merit lists that are to be announced from July 9 onwards. One such example is Mumbai’s SNDT Junior College, where 50 per cent admission is generally achieved after the third merit list is out.

A prominent junior college in South Mumbai. Pics/Aditi Alurkar