Introduction
The Government of Odisha has officially reinstated the Four-Year Integrated B.A. B.Ed. and B.Sc. B.Ed. programs for the 2025-26 academic session, following directives from the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE), New Delhi. This decision marks a significant step in strengthening teacher education in the state while aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
The Student Academic Management System (SAMS), Odisha’s centralized admission portal, has released a revised timeline for undergraduate (UG) admissions, including these integrated programs. Additionally, the state has introduced an 11.25% reservation for Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC), further promoting inclusive education.
This 2000-word guide provides a detailed breakdown of the admission process, eligibility criteria, reservation policies, and key changes under NEP 2020.
Section 1: Overview of the Four-Year Integrated B.Ed. Program
What is the Integrated B.Ed. Program?
The Integrated B.A. B.Ed. / B.Sc. B.Ed. is a four-year dual-degree program that combines:
A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree with
A Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) qualification
This structure allows students to complete both degrees simultaneously, reducing the total time required compared to traditional separate courses.
Why Was the Program Reinstated?
Earlier, there were uncertainties regarding the continuation of the integrated B.Ed. program due to NCTE guidelines. However, after review, the Odisha Higher Education Department has confirmed its continuation for 2025-26, except at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College, Baripada.
Institutions such as Utkal University, BJB Autonomous College, and Regional Institute of Education (RIE) Bhubaneswar are among the prominent colleges offering these programs. These institutions have been recognized for their commitment to quality teacher education and have the necessary infrastructure and faculty to support the integrated courses.
Key Benefits of the Integrated B.Ed. Program
✔ Saves time (4 years instead of 5-6 years for separate degrees)
✔ Enhanced employability with dual qualifications
✔ NEP 2020-aligned curriculum focusing on multidisciplinary learning
✔ Better teaching career prospects with early specialization
Section 2: Revised Admission Process & Key Dates
The admission process for the Integrated B.Ed. program is conducted through SAMS Odisha (www.samsodisha.gov.in). Here’s the revised timeline for 2025-26:
| Activity | Revised Dates |
|---|---|
| Online CAF Availability | Extended till 21-May-2025 |
| Last Date for CAF Submission | 01-June-2025 (11:45 PM) |
| OTP-Based CAF Editing Window | 21-May-2025 (2:00 PM) to 01-June-2025 (11:45 PM) |
| Provisional Seat Allotment & Admission Dates | To be announced later |
Step-by-Step Admission Process
Registration on SAMS Portal
Visit www.samsodisha.gov.in
Fill in personal, academic, and contact details
Filling the Common Application Form (CAF)
Select Integrated B.A. B.Ed. / B.Sc. B.Ed. as preferred course
Choose colleges in order of preference
Uploading Documents
+2 Marksheet (auto-filled for CHSE students, manual entry for others)
SEBC Certificate (if applicable)
Other required certificates
CAF Editing & Final Submission
Applicants can edit their CAF multiple times before the deadline
Ensure all details are correct before final submission
Seat Allotment & Admission
Provisional allotment will be based on merit and reservation
Selected candidates must complete admission formalities at allotted colleges
Section 3: New 11.25% SEBC Reservation Policy
Who is Eligible?
Candidates belonging to Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC)
Must possess a valid SEBC certificate from Odisha state authorities
How to Apply Under SEBC Quota?
Obtain an SEBC certificate from the competent authority (e.g., Tahasildar/Revenue Officer).
Upload the certificate during CAF submission.
Ensure the certificate is verified and valid for the 2025-26 academic session.
Impact of the Reservation Policy
Increases access to higher education for marginalized groups
Aligns with Odisha’s social justice initiatives
Expected to benefit thousands of SEBC students in UG admissions
Section 4: NEP 2020 Reforms in Course Structure
The Four-Year Integrated B.Ed. program now follows the NEP 2020 guidelines, offering flexible learning options:
Three Course Structures Available
Single Major + Two Minors
Example: B.A. B.Ed. with History (Major) + Political Science & Odia (Minors)
Double Major
Example: B.Sc. B.Ed. with Physics & Chemistry (Dual Majors)
Three Minors (General Stream)
Example: B.A. B.Ed. with Economics, Sociology, and Education (Minors)
How Seat Allotment Works?
For Single Major: Based on chosen Major subject
For Double Major: Based on Major-I preference
For Three Minors: Classified under General category
Additional subject combinations will be finalized during college-level counseling.
Section 5: Important Guidelines for Applicants
1. CAF Editing Rules
Applicants can modify choices, personal details, and marks before the deadline.
CHSE students will have marks auto-updated; others must enter manually.
Always download the latest CAF copy for admission.
2. Documents Required
✔ +2 Marksheet & Passing Certificate
✔ SEBC Certificate (if applicable)
✔ Domicile Certificate
✔ Aadhaar Card
3. Helpline Support
For any admission-related queries, contact:
SAMS Toll-Free Helpline: 155335 / 1800-345-6770
Official Website: www.samsodisha.gov.in
Official Notification : Click here
Conclusion
The reinstatement of the Integrated B.Ed. program in Odisha for 2025-26 is a major boost for aspiring teachers. With the new SEBC reservation, NEP-aligned course structures, and a streamlined SAMS admission process, the state is ensuring equitable and quality teacher education.
Prospective candidates must complete their CAF before June 1, 2025, and stay updated via the SAMS portal. This initiative not only enhances career opportunities but also strengthens Odisha’s education system in line with NEP 2020’s vision.
