New Delhi – Delhi University (DU) has published a comprehensive schedule and rule‑book for the 2026‑27 undergraduate admissions under the Extra‑Curricular Activities (ECA) and Sports Supernumerary Quota. The university confirmed that physical trials for both categories will commence around 15 July 2026, and that final seat allocation for these quotas will be carried out after the third round of the regular Common Seat Allocation System for Undergraduate Admissions (CSAS‑UG).

Understanding the ECA Quota

DU offers admissions across 14 ECA categories, ranging from dance, music, theatre, debate, creative writing, fine arts, digital media, quiz, to yoga. Applicants may choose up to three main categories (and corresponding sub‑categories) and must upload their five best certificates related to the selected activity. Preference submission closes on 11 July 2026 23:59 IST, with a correction window from 10 July 10:00 IST to 11 July 23:59 IST.

Weightage and Seat Adjustment

For the ECA quota, the evaluation splits into two components: 25 % weightage to the CUET UG score and 75 % to the highest score secured in the ECA physical trial. Candidates who secure a seat through the ECA quota will have their regular CSAS‑UG seat automatically cancelled, ensuring a single, non‑overlapping allocation.

Sports Supernumerary Quota Mechanics

The Sports quota spans 28 disciplines, divided into three groups – team games, dual/combat sports, and individual events. Team‑games candidates are assessed out of 400 marks (200 for fundamental skill assessment and 200 for trial performance). Dual/combat and individual sports (e.g., archery, athletics, gymnastics, swimming) rely entirely on trial performance, also out of 400 marks. Certificates earned between 1 May 2023 and 30 April 2026 will be considered. The final merit list assigns 25 % weightage to the CUET score, 25 % to the best uploaded sports certificate, and 50 % to the trial score. A total of 2,153 seats are earmarked for the Sports Supernumerary Quota.

Implications and Future Outlook

The introduction of separate, trial‑driven admission streams for ECA and sports underscores DU’s commitment to a more holistic student body. While the move promises greater diversity, experts caution that the transparency of trial assessments must be rigorously monitored to avoid bias. The university will publish exact trial venues and dates on its admission portal after Phase II concludes, giving aspirants a clear timeline for preparation.