All arts and science colleges in Tamil Nadu have been directed by the Directorate of Collegiate Education (DCE) on Thursday to begin physical classes for their first year students from October 4. The colleges had previously been asked to complete their admission processes by October 1.

Second and third year UG students as well as second year PG students have been attending physical classes since September 1. A circular issued by the Directorate of Collegiate Education to all the managements of colleges also stated that principals of the institutions should conduct orientation programme for all its freshers. "College principals must ensure that all eligible students are vaccinated, wearing masks and following social distancing on college campuses," the circular reportedly read.

The Tamil Nadu government recently announced that all schools in the state would be reopening for classes 1 - 8 from November 1. "Medical experts, parents, and educationists say students are losing out on learning and are stressed due to the prolonged closure of schools. Hence, all schools are allowed to conduct physical classes for Classes 1 to 8 from November 1 following Covid-19 safety protocols," CM Stalin wrote.