Chennai: The Tamil Nadu state education policy mandates that Plus 1 marks must be considered for college admissions, emphasizing their importance for entry into higher education.

The policy underscores the necessity of initiating a State Higher Education Program to ensure quality higher education.
According to the policy, both Plus 1 and Plus 2 examination marks should be used for higher education admissions, and entrance exams should not be a requirement.

The policy outlines a structured approach to higher education, proposing a three-year undergraduate course followed by a two-year master's program.

Alternatively, students can opt for a four-year course that includes a research component.

This approach aims to provide flexibility for students without enforcing an exit plan, thus reducing dropout rates.

The curricula for arts and social studies need to be revised to encourage more critical and analytical thinking, while science curricula should also see improvements.

Moreover, the policy suggests expanding the use of open book and open notes methods to enhance learning choices. It emphasizes the need for better technological facilities in higher education.

The activities of the Tamil Nadu State Council For Higher Education, known as 'TANSCHE', should be expanded, and the Tamil Nadu Private Universities Act should be amended to better regulate private institutions.

The policy strongly opposes the entry of foreign universities into the state.

A significant reorganization is also proposed, where universities and colleges offering courses in Arts, Science, Engineering, Medicine, Law, and Architecture should be managed under a single organization, working in collaboration with the Open University.

Anna University should become a separate technical university with distinct college affiliations, and Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University should be upgraded to a premier research institute with its own multi-purpose hospital and college.

Additionally, AYUSH medical units should be introduced in all hospitals.

The policy also highlights the need to update law courses to align with current technology and evolving times.

In summary, the state education policy presents a comprehensive plan to enhance the quality and accessibility of higher education, placing significant emphasis on the importance of Plus 1 marks in college admissions.