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University of North Bengal: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Siliguri Campus Life
location
Siliguri, West Bengal
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 10 January 2026

More About NBU

The University of North Bengal was established in 1962 and is situated in the picturesque Darjeeling, West Bengal. It is a well-regarded public state university, covering a substantial 315.99-acre campus. The university is home to 4810 students, supported by 234 faculty members, maintaining a faculty-student ratio of 1:20.5. The University of North Bengal has been ranked 51-100th by NIRF 2024 under the State Public Universities category. NBU, a prominent public state university, offers a wide array of UG, PG, and PhD courses to students. These are provided across 30 departments, encompassing a total of 94 courses. The University of North Bengal (NBU) provides diverse programs, including professional courses such as MBA, MCA, B.Pharm, and LL.B., focusing on Management, Computer Applications, Pharmacy, and Law, among other areas. Further, this university also offers advanced research opportunities like PhD programs in various disciplines, including Botany, Physics, Chemistry, and Management, showcasing its commitment to higher education. The institute is located in a sprawling 315.99-acre campus in Darjeeling, equipped with modern facilities for academic and research pursuits. The North Bengal University campus environments are designed to support a holistic learning experience. The University of North Bengal is driven and promoted by the State Government of West Bengal, operating as a key public state university. Located in Darjeeling, this reputed institution accepts scores from national-level entrance exams such as CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, ATMA, and JECA for various programs. Additionally, the university conducts its own entrance tests, including NBUET and NBU-RET, for admissions into specific undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. The faculty members at the University of North Bengal are experienced professionals with years of academic and research expertise, contributing significantly to its educational environment.

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Campus Area

315.99

Faculty Student Ratio

1:20.5

Year Of Established

1962

About University of North Bengal Darjeeling

The University of North Bengal (NBU), established in 1962, is a public state university located in Raja Rammohunpur, Siliguri, Darjeeling district, West Bengal. Founded by the Government of West Bengal, it serves the educational needs of North Bengal and neighboring regions, including parts of Sikkim. NBU operates multiple campuses, including its main campus in Darjeeling and others in Jalpaiguri and Kolkata.

NBU is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and accredited with a B++ grade by NAAC valid until 2027. It holds a NIRF 2025 rank in the 51-100 band under the State Public University category. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, M.Phil, and Ph.D. programs across arts, science, commerce, law, management, and languages, with a student strength exceeding 37,000 and a faculty of over 150. NBU is noted for its research initiatives and inclusive education policies.

Key Highlights

ParameterDetails
Full NameUniversity of North Bengal
Established1962
TypeState University
AffiliationAutonomous
Approved ByUGC
NAAC GradeB++ (Valid till 2027)
NIRF 2025#51-100 in State Public University category
Campus330 acres, Raja Rammohunpur, Siliguri, Darjeeling, West Bengal
CoursesUG, PG, M.Phil, Ph.D.
Popular ProgrammesArts, Science, Commerce, Law, Management
StudentsOver 37,000
Faculty151+
Fee Range₹500 - ₹1,000 (Distance Education application fees)
Websitewww.nbu.ac.in

Courses Offered at NBU

Specializations

Bachelor of Library and Information Science

Specializations

Diploma in FrenchDiploma in Multimedia

Specializations

Master of Arts in Applied GeographyMaster of Arts in BengaliMaster of Arts in Economics+11

Specializations

Master of Philosophy in BengaliMaster of Philosophy in EconomicsMaster of Philosophy in Himalayan Studies+4

Specializations

Ph.D in AnthropologyPh.D in BengaliPh.D in Biotechnology+22

Specializations

Bachelor of Business Administration in Financial MarketsBachelor of Business Administration

Specializations

Bachelor of Commerce {Hons.} in FinanceBachelor of Commerce {Hons.} in Finance

Specializations

Bachelor of Computer Application

Specializations

Bachelor of Laws {Hons.}

Specializations

Bachelor of Science {Hons.} in AnthropologyBachelor of Science {Hons.} in GeologyBachelor of Science {Hons.} in Tea Science

Specializations

BALLB

Specializations

Master of Business Administration in Financial ManagementMaster of Business Administration in Human Resource ManagementMaster of Business Administration in Marketing Management+2

Admission Dates 2026

The University of North Bengal (NBU) admission cycle for 2026 includes various UG, PG, integrated law, and distance education programs. Admissions are conducted through online applications, merit, and entrance exams such as WB JECA for MCA and university-conducted tests for other courses. Distance education admissions have separate timelines with online application and document submission processes.

ProgrammeEventDate
Distance Education UG & PGApplication Start01 December 2025
Distance Education UG & PGApplication Deadline31 January 2026
Distance Education UG & PGExtended Application Deadline15 September 2026
5-Year Integrated B.A. LL.B (Honours)Application Start23 June 2026
5-Year Integrated B.A. LL.B (Honours)Application Deadline29 June 2026
PG (M.A./M.Sc./M.Com./LL.M. etc.)Application Start08 August 2026
PG (M.A./M.Sc./M.Com./LL.M. etc.)Application Deadline20 December 2026
UG & PG General AdmissionApplication Deadline20 December 2026

Admission Process

The University of North Bengal (NBU), Darjeeling, offers admission through merit-based selection and entrance exams depending on the program. Undergraduate admissions generally require 10+2 qualification, while postgraduate admissions require a relevant bachelor's degree, with some courses requiring entrance exams like JEE Main, NEET, CAT, or university-conducted tests.

Undergraduate Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Visit the official NBU website and create an account on the admission portal.
  2. Fill out the online application form with personal and academic details.
  3. Upload required documents such as mark sheets, photographs, and category certificates.
  4. Pay the application fee online or via SBI Challan as specified.
  5. Submit the application and save the confirmation receipt for future reference.
  6. Appear for entrance exams if applicable (e.g., JEE Main for engineering).
  7. Check merit list or entrance exam results published by the university.
  8. Complete document verification and pay the admission fee to confirm enrollment.

Postgraduate Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Register and apply online through the NBU official website.
  2. Upload graduation mark sheets, degree certificates, and other required documents.
  3. Pay the application fee as per the program.
  4. Appear for entrance exams conducted by NBU or submit scores of accepted exams (e.g., CAT for MBA, GATE for M.Tech).
  5. Check merit list or entrance exam results.
  6. Attend counseling or interview if required.
  7. Complete document verification and pay the admission fee.
  8. Enroll in the program after confirmation.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

ProgrammeQualificationEntrance ExamMin %Fees (per year)
B.A./B.Sc./B.Com.10+2 from recognized boardMerit-based / University test50%₹7,000
B.Tech10+2 with PCMJEE Main / State-level exam50%₹1,50,000
M.A. (English, Bengali, Nepali, etc.)Graduation in relevant fieldMerit-based50%₹7,000
MBAGraduationCAT / CMAT / MAT50%₹2,50,000
M.TechB.Tech/B.E. in relevant fieldGATE / University test50%₹1,50,000
M.Phil / Ph.D.Master’s degreeUniversity entrance test and interview55%₹10,000

Documents Required

  • 10th and 12th mark sheets and certificates
  • Graduation mark sheets and degree certificate (for PG applicants)
  • Entrance exam scorecard (if applicable)
  • Valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar card, passport, etc.)
  • Recent passport-size photographs
  • Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC) if applicable
  • Migration certificate (for students from other universities)
  • Transfer certificate from previous institution
  • Character certificate

Nearest Attractions at NBU

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Bagdogra International Airport

7 km

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Siliguri Bus Stop

7.4 km

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North Bengal Medical College and Hospital

4 km

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New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP)

14 km

Cutoff 2025

The University of North Bengal's cutoff trends for professional courses like MCA and MBA show reliance on entrance exams such as WB JECA for MCA and MAT/CAT/CMAT/ATMA for MBA, with cutoffs generally reflecting moderate competition. MCA admission cutoff ranks for the general category in WB JECA typically range around 800 to 1100, while MBA admissions require minimum 50 percentile scores in respective management entrance exams.

ExamBranch/CourseGeneral
WB JECAMCA838 - 1074 (Closing Rank)
MAT/CAT/CMAT/ATMAMBA (Marketing, Finance, HR)50 - 60 percentile

Campus Facilities at NBU

Academic Spaces

Centralised Hall (Proposed)

Departmental Seminar Halls

Modern Classrooms

Rabindra Bhanu Manch (Auditorium)

Smart Classrooms

Vidyasagar Manch (Auditorium)

Laboratories

Bioinformatics Lab

Biotechnology Lab

Chemistry Lab

Computer Lab

Fisheries Research and Training Centre

General Departmental Laboratories

Library

Departmental Libraries

Digital Library Resources

Seminar Libraries

University Library (Central Library)

Placements 2025

The University of North Bengal's placement cell facilitated campus recruitment for both undergraduate (5-year) and postgraduate (2-year) programs, with median salary packages of ₹2.40 for UG and ₹2.95 for PG students. Approximately 39 UG and 53 PG students were placed in 2025, with around 50-60 companies visiting annually, primarily recruiting from science and commerce streams.

Placement Statistics

ParameterValue
Highest Package₹10
Average Package₹2.5
Median Package₹2.40 (UG), ₹2.95 (PG)
Placement RateApproximately 50%
Students Placed39 (UG) / 53 (PG)
Companies Visited50-60

Top Recruiters

IT: Wipro, TCS, Cognizant

Consulting: Bajaj Finserv, Axis Bank

Core: TCG Life Science, Sun Pharmaceuticals, ITC, Agro Tech Foods Limited

Branch-wise Placement

BranchHighestAverage%Placed
Science & Commerce Streams₹10₹2-450-60%

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Civil Engineer

5

North Bengal University (NBU), located in the outskirts of Siliguri in the district of Darjeeling, West Bengal, is one of the premier academic institutions in the region. Established in 1962, NBU was set up to cater to the educational needs of the people in the northern part of Bengal, including the districts of Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, and parts of Sikkim and neighboring states. Key Details About North Bengal University Campus and Location Location: The university is situated in the picturesque foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, around 8 kilometers from the city of Siliguri, making it a serene place for academic pursuits. Size: The campus spans over 330 acres and is well-equipped with modern facilities, lush greenery, and a peaceful environment conducive to learning and research. Connectivity: It is well-connected by road, with the Bagdogra Airport and New Jalpaiguri Railway Station located nearby, making it accessible from other parts of India. Academic Structure Faculties and Departments: NBU offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across disciplines such as Science, Arts, Commerce, Law, and Engineering. Key faculties include: 1. Faculty of Science (Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, etc.) 2. Faculty of Arts (History, Political Science, Sociology, English, etc.) 3. Faculty of Commerce and Management 4. Faculty of Law Research and Development: The university places a strong emphasis on research, with several research centers and collaborations with national and international institutions. It also houses a central library with a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources for students and researchers. Affiliated Colleges NBU has numerous affiliated colleges spread across the districts of Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, and Cooch Behar. These colleges offer undergraduate programs in various disciplines and follow the academic guidelines set by the university. Courses and Programs Undergraduate Programs: Various bachelor's degrees in Science, Arts, Commerce, and Law are offered. Postgraduate Programs: NBU provides postgraduate degrees such as MA, M.Sc, MBA, MCA, LLM, etc. Doctoral Programs: Ph.D. programs are available across various disciplines, with a strong emphasis on research output and academic contribution. Professional Courses: The university also offers professional and vocational courses like BBA, MBA, and integrated programs. Notable Facilities Library: The university has a well-maintained central library with an extensive collection of academic and research materials. Hostels: NBU offers hostel facilities for both male and female students within the campus. Sports: There are sports facilities for both indoor and outdoor games, promoting a healthy balance between academics and extracurricular activities. Health Care: A health center on the campus provides medical facilities to students and staff. Cultural and Academic Events Seminars and Conferences: NBU regularly organizes national and international seminars, workshops, and conferences on various academic topics, fostering intellectual growth and research. Cultural Events: The university also hosts cultural festivals and student events, encouraging participation in extracurricular activities like music, theater, and art. These events bring students together and create a vibrant campus life. Collaborations NBU collaborates with several national and international universities and research bodies to promote academic exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and student exchange opportunities. These partnerships aim to provide global exposure to students and faculty members. Student Life Diversity: The university attracts students from across India and neighboring countries like Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh, creating a diverse and multicultural environment. The university has made significant contributions in fields such as Himalayan studies, tea and agro-research, and regional languages, contributing to the understanding of local issues and global challenges.

Saptarshi Roy

5

The University of North Bengal stands as a beacon of academic excellence and cultural richness. Its picturesque campus, nestled in the foothills, provides an inspiring environment for learning and growth. With a diverse range of programs and dedicated faculty, the university is committed to fostering innovation and critical thinking. It's an ideal destination for students seeking quality education and a vibrant campus life.

Kaustav Chakrabarti

5

The NBU campus is breathtaking in terms of its verdant surroundings and numerous biodiversity resources. There are museums inside the campus, in addition to the university's own tea gardens meant for students studying tea science. There is also a small rivulet adding to the serene ambience of the place.

RAY OF REFLECTION The Modular Kitchen & Furniture

5

After the shivmandir way to Bagdogra that NBU is situated, approximately 330 acres belongings the North Bengal University, one of the big University in northbengal, very clean and nature friendly place, inside the university we found lot of rare and migratory bird, lake, jungle and lots of environmentally attached things.......

Rankings & Accreditations

The University of North Bengal, Darjeeling, is ranked within the 51-100 band among State Public Universities in India by NIRF 2025. It holds a NAAC accreditation with a B++ grade valid till 2027 and features in QS Asian University Rankings in the 1201-1300 band for 2026. The university also appears in various other national and international rankings reflecting its academic and research profile.

NIRF 2025

CategoryRank
State Public University51-100

Other Rankings

AgencyRankYear
QS Asian University Rankings1201-13002026
University Guru Meta Ranking (India)1502025
Scimago Institutions Rankings32622025
Nature Index: Research Leaders Academic Sector12102024
Webometrics Ranking Web of Universities33492024

Accreditations

  • NAAC: B++ (Valid till 2027)

Scholarships & Financial Aid

The University of North Bengal, Darjeeling offers a variety of scholarships including merit-based, need-based, and category-specific awards to support students financially. These include institute scholarships, government-funded schemes like the Swami Vivekananda Merit-cum-Means Scholarship, and fellowships for research students, with amounts ranging from tuition fee waivers to monthly stipends.

Institute Scholarships

ScholarshipEligibilityAmount
Post Graduate Merit Scholarship SchemeUniversity rank holders in UG General & Honours courses₹12,000/year
Emeritus FellowshipMeritorious students in PG coursesVaries, typically monthly stipends
Research Fellowship (UGC/DBT)PG/PhD students with strong academic records, especially in Biotechnology₹5,000/month
SC/ST/OBC ScholarshipStudents belonging to SC/ST/OBC with minimum 75% marks in qualifying examFree tuition and exam fees, ₹5,000/year stipend

Government Scholarships

SchemeForAmountPortal
Swami Vivekananda Merit-cum-Means ScholarshipMeritorious students with family income below ₹2.5 lakh/year₹30,000/yearNSP
Post Matric Scholarship for SC/STSC/ST students with minimum 75% marksTuition fee waiver and stipendsNSP
Aikyashree ScholarshipStudents from West Bengal, especially minorities and backward classesVariesState Portal
Kanyashree ScholarshipGirls from West Bengal pursuing higher educationVariesState Portal

External Scholarships

  • Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship: Fellowship for SC/ST candidates pursuing research, amount varies as per government norms

Comparison

The University of North Bengal Darjeeling is compared with the University of Jammu and North Maharashtra University as they are all state public universities with similar NIRF rank bands (51-100) in 2025, offering diverse undergraduate and postgraduate programs and serving regional educational needs in India.

ParameterUniversity of North Bengal DarjeelingUniversity of JammuNorth Maharashtra University
TypeGovernmentGovernmentGovernment
Established196219691990
NIRF 2025Rank band 51-100 (State Public Universities)Rank 87Rank band 51-100
NAACB++ GradeA GradeB Grade
Fee (Total)₹0.5₹0.6₹0.4
Highest Package₹6₹7₹5
Average Package₹3₹3.5₹2.5

Key Strengths

  • University of North Bengal Darjeeling: Strong regional presence in North Bengal with diverse programs and focus on socially and economically backward students, accredited B++ by NAAC.
  • University of Jammu: Established university with A grade NAAC accreditation, strong research output, and higher placement packages.
  • North Maharashtra University: Relatively newer university with affordable fees and growing academic programs catering to the Maharashtra region.

Campus & Infrastructure

The University of North Bengal's main campus is located at Raja Rammohunpur near Siliguri in the Darjeeling district, spread over approximately 330 acres. It is situated in the Terai region, offering a scenic environment near the foothills of the Himalayas with views of Kanchenjunga, tea gardens, and forest cover.

Campus Details

ParameterDetails
Area330 acres
LocationRaja Rammohunpur, Darjeeling, West Bengal
Nearest RailwaySiliguri Junction (approx. 12 km)
Nearest AirportBagdogra Airport (approx. 10 km)

Academic Facilities

  • Library: 278,503 books

Hostel

Other Facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the admission process for postgraduate courses at University of North Bengal?

Admission to PG courses at NBU requires candidates to apply online through the official portal. Selection is based on entrance exam scores conducted by the university, with 60% seats reserved for NBU students and 40% for others.

Which entrance exams are accepted for MBA admission at NBU?

NBU accepts CMAT scores for MBA admissions. Candidates must meet eligibility criteria and apply online through the university’s admission portal.

What is the fee structure for undergraduate courses at University of North Bengal?

The fee for UG courses varies by program but generally ranges from ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 per year. Exact fees are available on the official university website during admission.

Are scholarships available for students at University of North Bengal?

NBU offers various scholarships based on merit and reserved category status. Students can apply through the university’s scholarship portal or respective government schemes.

What are the placement statistics and top recruiters at University of North Bengal?

NBU has a moderate placement record with local and regional recruiters. Top recruiters include banks, educational institutions, and government organizations, with average packages around ₹2-3 per annum.

Does University of North Bengal provide internship opportunities?

Internships are facilitated through departmental collaborations and local industry tie-ups, especially for professional courses like MBA and Science streams.

What specializations are offered in the M.A. programs at NBU?

NBU offers M.A. specializations in English, Bengali, Nepali, Philosophy, Political Science, and History through regular and distance education modes.

How qualified is the faculty at University of North Bengal?

The university has 151 faculty members, including 16 Ph.D. holders, ensuring experienced teaching and research guidance across departments.

What research facilities are available at University of North Bengal?

NBU supports research with well-equipped labs, a central library with over 2.7 lakh books, and facilities for M.Phil and Ph.D. programs requiring entrance tests and interviews.

What hostel facilities does University of North Bengal provide?

NBU has 10 hostels (4 for boys, 5 for girls, 1 for international students) with rooms accommodating 2-4 students, monthly fees around ₹1000-1200 including meals, and amenities like Wi-Fi, gym, and sports courts.

How is the food quality in the university hostels?

Hostel food quality varies; some students prefer external meal services. The university ensures hygienic food and provides spacious dining areas in hostels.

Are there sports and recreational facilities on campus?

NBU offers a sports complex ‘KHELA GHAR’ with gym, badminton, table tennis, basketball, cricket, football, and volleyball facilities for students.

Is the University of North Bengal campus Wi-Fi enabled?

Yes, the entire campus including hostels and academic buildings is Wi-Fi enabled with high-speed broadband connectivity managed by the university’s computer centre.

What is the daily commute like for students attending NBU?

The main campus is located near Siliguri, accessible by local transport. Many students prefer staying in hostels due to the campus’s distance from the city center.

Are part-time job opportunities available for students at NBU?

Part-time jobs on campus are limited; however, students often find opportunities in Siliguri city nearby, especially in tutoring and retail sectors.

Is there a dress code for students at University of North Bengal?

NBU does not enforce a strict dress code but encourages modest and appropriate attire suitable for academic and cultural activities.

How does University of North Bengal compare with other universities in West Bengal?

NBU is the premier university in North Bengal with NAAC ‘A’ grade accreditation, offering a wide range of courses and research opportunities, making it a preferred choice over newer regional universities.

What is the return on investment (ROI) for courses at University of North Bengal?

With affordable fees and moderate placement packages averaging ₹2-3 per annum, NBU offers good ROI, especially for humanities and science graduates from the region.

How active is the alumni network of University of North Bengal?

NBU has an active alumni network engaged in academia, government, and private sectors, facilitating mentorship and career support for current students.

Does University of North Bengal offer distance education programs?

Yes, through its Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE), NBU offers UG and PG courses in subjects like English, Bengali, Nepali, Political Science, History, and Mathematics with flexible learning options.

Frequently Asked Questions

    Students at University of North Bengal Darjeeling rate it 4/5 for faculty and campus, highlighting the well-equipped facilities and serene environment, while noting the availability of only 7.5 km bus and 4.0 km railway station access as a minor con. The university offers a wide range of 94 courses across various levels, with fees structured at Rs 10,000 per semester for undergraduate courses in 2026. Pros include strong academic accreditation and a conducive learning atmosphere, while cons include limited local transportation options.
    The admission process at University of North Bengal Darjeeling requires the XAT exam followed by counseling and document verification. The last date to apply for XAT 2026 is December 5, 2025. Students then proceed to counseling where they will be interviewed and their documents will be verified.
    The campus life at University of North Bengal Darjeeling offers modern hostels with amenities like Wi-Fi and AC rooms, along with a well-equipped mess serving diverse cuisines at affordable rates of Rs 8,000 per semester, and a variety of clubs and fests including the annual Darjeeling Festival and sports facilities like a football field and a gymnasium. The environment is serene, set across 316 acres in the picturesque Darjeeling hills, providing a tranquil and inspiring atmosphere for students.
    The eligibility for admission to MA courses at University of North Bengal Darjeeling requires a minimum of 55% in the Bachelor's degree from a recognized university. For the CAT 2025 entrance exam, candidates need to secure a qualifying score as per the University's criteria. The last date to apply for the XAT 2026 is December 5, 2025.
    The placement at University of North Bengal Darjeeling shows 85% students placed with an average package of Rs 4.5 LPA and the highest package reaching Rs 10 LPA. Top recruiters include companies like IBM, HDFC Bank, and TCS.
    The placement at University of North Bengal Darjeeling shows 85% students placed with an average package of Rs 4.5 LPA and a highest package of Rs 10 LPA.
    The important admission dates for University of North Bengal Darjeeling are: application for B.Sc(Hons.) and M.Sc. programs starts on December 1, 2025, the CMAT exam for MBA/PGDM/MMS courses is on January 25, 2026, and the results will be announced in February 2026.
    The entrance exams accepted at University of North Bengal Darjeeling are CAT 2025 with a cutoff rank of 90th percentile, XAT 2026 with a cutoff rank of 85th percentile, and JEE Main with a cutoff score of 110 out of 300.
    University of North Bengal Darjeeling is good for engineering with a placement rate of 85% and an average package of Rs 4.5 LPA. The university specializes in providing a strong foundation in core engineering subjects along with opportunities for internships and placements.
    University of North Bengal Darjeeling is known for its strong programs in humanities and social sciences and is ranked 35th in the NIRF rankings 2025. The university offers a total of 94 courses at various levels, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. It covers a vast area of about 316 acres, providing a serene environment for academic pursuits.
    University of North Bengal Darjeeling is ranked 125th in NIRF 2025 and 130th in the CMAT 2025 for management programs.
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