New Delhi: In a move set to transform India’s higher education landscape, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced a series of landmark reforms for undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programs, effective from the 2025 academic session. Rooted in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the new regulations aim to make higher education more flexible, accessible, and globally competitive.
Students will now have greater freedom to design their academic journeys, with options such as multiple entry and exit points, interdisciplinary learning opportunities, and the ability to pursue two degrees simultaneously.
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of the Multiple Entry and Exit System, allowing students to earn a certificate, diploma, or degree based on the credits completed. Students can also rejoin courses without losing their academic progress. Credits will be digitally stored in the newly introduced Academic Bank of Credits (ABC), facilitating transfers between universities.
The reforms also introduce biannual admissions (July/August and January/February), skill-based learning integration, and discipline-agnostic admissions, allowing students to enroll in programs outside their original field of study by clearing the relevant entrance exams.
Key Highlights of UGC’s 2025 Reforms:
- Multiple Entry and Exit: Exit after 1, 2, 3, or 4 years with a certificate, diploma, general degree, or honours degree, respectively.
- Academic Bank of Credits: Digital storage of academic credits, enabling easy transfer and accumulation across universities.
- Dual Degrees: Simultaneous pursuit of two UG or PG degrees, even from different institutions or modes (offline, online, distance).
- Biannual Admissions: Reduced waiting periods with two admission cycles each year.
- Skill-Based and Multidisciplinary Learning: At least 50% of credits must be from the core subject; the rest from skill, vocational, or multidisciplinary courses.
- Flexible Attendance: Institutions can determine their own attendance policies, supporting hybrid learning models.
UGC’s Multiple Entry and Exit Framework:
| Years Completed | Credits Required | Certification Awarded |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Year | 40 | Certificate |
| 2 Years | 80 | Diploma |
| 3 Years | 120 | General Degree |
| 4 Years | 160 | Honours/Honours with Research |
Students and stakeholders can review the full regulations by visiting the official UGC website at ugc.gov.in, under the ‘Regulations’ or ‘Guidelines’ section.
Impact on Students: The reforms promise greater academic flexibility, increased skill-readiness through practical training, enhanced global competitiveness of Indian degrees, and broader access to higher education.
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