In a significant move set to transform the landscape of higher education in India, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced new draft regulations outlining the minimum standards for undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) degree programs. The proposed changes aim to introduce greater flexibility, promote multidisciplinary learning, and align academic frameworks with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The reforms include provisions for multiple entry and exit points, biannual admissions, and discipline-agnostic course eligibility, among other key initiatives.
According to UGC Chairman, the regulations are designed to remove disciplinary rigidity, provide greater autonomy to higher education institutions (HEIs), and offer students the freedom to shape their learning journeys. “The regulations incorporate provisions for multiple entry and exit, recognition of prior learning, and the flexibility to pursue two UG/PG programs simultaneously. Students can choose any program irrespective of their past disciplinary qualification, provided they demonstrate competency through relevant entrance examinations. Recognising the diverse learning modes promoted by NEP 2020, these reforms also allow HEIs to set attendance requirements tailored to evolving academic needs,” he explained.
Here’s a detailed look at the seven major changes introduced by the UGC:
Biannual Admissions for Flexibility
Under the new framework, higher education institutions that are equipped to manage biannual admissions can now admit students twice a year—in July/August and January/February. This provision is expected to reduce the waiting period for students and provide more flexibility in starting their academic journey, aligning with global academic practices.
Multiple Entry-Exit and Recognition of Prior Learning
A key highlight of the draft regulations is the flexibility for students to enter and exit academic programs at multiple points. Coupled with the recognition of prior learning, this ensures that learners can seamlessly resume their studies or pivot to new areas of interest without starting over. Additionally, students now have the option to pursue two UG or PG programs simultaneously, further broadening their academic horizons.
Discipline-Agnostic Admissions
The rigid requirement of aligning prior qualifications with the chosen discipline has been eliminated. Students can now apply for UG or PG programs in any field, regardless of their previous subject of study, as long as they pass the national or university-level entrance exams for the chosen program. This reform is particularly significant in promoting interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary learning, as envisioned by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Flexible Attendance Policies
Recognising the diversity of learning modes and the shift towards hybrid education, HEIs will have the autonomy to decide attendance requirements for different programs. With approval from their statutory bodies, institutions can now tailor attendance policies to suit the needs of modern academic environments, balancing traditional classroom learning with online and experiential learning modes.
Credit Distribution for Degrees
To earn an undergraduate degree with a major in a specific discipline, students must complete at least 50% of their total credits in that discipline. The remaining credits can be allocated to skill-based courses, apprenticeships, or subjects from other disciplines. This credit structure fosters a more holistic educational experience, allowing students to acquire diverse skills and knowledge beyond their core area of study.
Accelerated and Extended Degree Programs
The regulations introduce options for Accelerated Degree Programs (ADP) and Extended Degree Programs (EDP) at the undergraduate level. Students demonstrating the capacity to complete their courses faster or needing more time can opt for these pathways after their first or second semester. Up to 10% of sanctioned intake can be earmarked for ADP students, while there is no cap for EDP. The curriculum and credit requirements remain unchanged, but the pace of completion varies. Degrees earned under these programs will include a note clarifying their shortened or extended durations.
Eligibility for 4-Year UG Graduates to Pursue Advanced PG Programs
Students completing a 4-year undergraduate degree (Honors or Honors with Research) in relevant subjects will be eligible for advanced 2-year postgraduate programs, such as M.E. or M.Tech. This eligibility criterion enhances the alignment between UG and PG education, encouraging students to engage in deeper, research-oriented learning.
