The West Bengal Centralised Admission Portal (WBCAP) has become the one-stop platform for students seeking admission into undergraduate (UG) courses across government and government-aided colleges in the state. In 2025, the system has seen record participation, but also a significant delay in the release of its first merit list. Initially scheduled for August 7, 2025, the merit list will now be released in the last week of August, following legal proceedings related to the revised OBC reservation list.

Purpose of the Merit List

The WBCAP merit list serves as the primary selection tool for undergraduate admissions. It reflects the names of candidates shortlisted for admission based on their Higher Secondary (10+2) academic performance. The system ensures that every applicant is considered fairly and uniformly under a centralised process, removing the need for students to apply separately to individual colleges.

With more than 3.59 lakh applicants and over 20 lakh applications submitted, the 2025 admission cycle marks one of the most competitive sessions so far.

Why the Delay?

The merit list was originally due on August 7, 2025. However, the release was postponed due to legal challenges connected to revised OBC reservations. The expansion of the OBC category, from 64 to 76 communities, required additional legal clearance, which temporarily halted the admission schedule.

Following interventions in the courts, the process is now cleared to move forward. The education department has confirmed that the first merit list will be available in the last week of August.

How to Check the WBCAP Merit List

Once released, students can access the merit list through the official website. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the official portal 👉 wbcap.in

2. Click on Student Login

3. Enter your Application Number and Password

4. Access the Merit List and Seat Allotment details

5. Download and save your allotment letter for future reference

6. Complete the seat acceptance payment online (via debit/credit card, net banking, or UPI)

7. Report to your allotted college with the necessary documents for verification

What Students Should Do Next

While waiting for the merit list, students should prepare the required documents, including:

• Higher Secondary (10+2) mark sheet

• Identity proof (Aadhaar card, voter ID, etc.)

• Reservation certificates (if applicable)

• Passport-size photographs

It is also advisable for candidates to frequently check the official WBCAP website for updates about counselling dates, upgrade rounds, and mop-up rounds, which will give them an opportunity to move to a different course or college if seats become available.