It will not be easy to get a hostel in DU: Know what are the new strict rules of allotment and the mathematics of merit.

After getting admission in Delhi University (DU), the biggest challenge that students coming from outside states face is getting a safe and affordable hostel! There is tough competition for limited hostel seats among lakhs of students coming from India and abroad. In such a situation, just having good marks is not enough, but it is also very important to understand the strict rules and priorities of the university. Let us understand the entire process and rules in simple language from a reporter’s perspective.

Merit and distance from home: two biggest grounds for getting hostel

The allotment of rooms in various colleges and university hostels of Delhi University mainly depends on two key parameters—your Academic Merit And Distance from Delhi.

As per the rules of the university, students whose names top the list of entrance examination or cut-off (CUET/Merit) are given first priority. Additionally, students resident of Delhi-NCR are not allotted hostels. The farther the candidate’s home is from Delhi, the greater are his chances of getting a hostel.

How is the application process and selection stage?

After the admission in the college is confirmed, students have to fill the hostel form from the official website/office of the concerned college or university hostel.

1. Shortlisting: First draft merit list is released on the basis of your marks and category (UR, OBC, SC, ST, PwD, EWS).

2. Interview & Verification: Shortlisted students are called for document verification and interview before the Hostel Admission Committee (Provost/Warden).

3. It is mandatory to have a local guardian: It is mandatory in the form to provide information about an authorized ‘Local Guardian’ living in Delhi, who will be accountable in case of any emergency.

Why is it important to take care of limited seats and backup plan?

DU has quite limited hostel seats compared to the total number of students. For example, there are only 2 to 5 seats in any one course or category section. In such a situation, if for some reason the name does not appear in the merit list, then students should already look for the option of Paying Guest (PG) or sharing flats around the campus (like North or South Campus). Therefore, applying on time with correct documents only strengthens your chances of getting a hostel.