UGC Reforms UG & PG Education with New 2025 Regulations: Multiple Entry-Exit, Dual Degrees, and More
Formfees
02/05/2025
New Delhi, May 2, 2025 — The University Grants Commission (UGC) has officially rolled out the UGC (Minimum Standards of Instruction for the Grant of Undergraduate and Postgraduate Degrees) Regulations, 2025, marking a major step towards overhauling the higher education system in India. The new guidelines will be applicable to all higher education institutions (HEIs) starting from the 2025-26 academic session.
Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, these reforms focus on flexibility, student choice, and a more interdisciplinary and inclusive approach to learning.
Contents
Key Highlights of UGC Regulations 2025
1. Multiple Entry and Exit System
Students can now enter and exit academic programs at different stages with a recognized qualification:
- 1 Year: Certificate (40 credits)
- 2 Years: Diploma (80 credits)
- 3 Years: General Degree (120 credits)
- 4 Years: Honours Degree or Honours with Research (160 credits)
This flexibility allows learners to pause and resume their education based on personal, professional, or financial circumstances.
2. Academic Bank of Credits (ABC)
Students can digitally store and redeem credits earned at different HEIs across the country, making it easier to transfer between colleges or resume studies after a break.
3. Dual Degrees Allowed
Learners can now pursue two degrees simultaneously — either from the same institution or across two different universities — in online, offline, or blended modes.
4. Biannual Admissions
HEIs are now allowed to conduct admissions twice a year — once in July-August and again in January-February — bringing the Indian system in line with global academic calendars.
5. Enhanced Curriculum Structure
Programs must now include:
- At least 50% credits in the core major discipline
- A mix of interdisciplinary, skill-based, and vocational courses
- Internships or research projects in the final year of 4-year programs
6. Stricter Evaluation Norms
Universities must ensure fair and transparent evaluation mechanisms. While the confidentiality of evaluations will be maintained, students can access answer sheets under prescribed procedures.
Who Must Comply?
These regulations apply to:
- Central and State Universities
- Institutions deemed to be universities
- Institutions established under Provincial Acts
Non-compliance may result in universities being barred from awarding degrees.
When Will It Start?
These rules are effective from the academic year 2025-26. Universities and colleges are required to revise their curriculum and admission policies accordingly.
Why It Matters
These reforms are expected to:
- Improve student retention
- Promote lifelong learning
- Encourage multidisciplinary learning
- Align Indian higher education with global best practices
Official Resources:
Conclusion: The UGC’s 2025 regulations signal a revolutionary step forward for India’s academic future. By empowering students with greater academic freedom, mobility, and flexibility, the country’s higher education system is now on a path to becoming more inclusive, dynamic, and globally competitive.
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