UGC approves flexible UG degree completion norms

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has approved new guidelines that will allow students in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to shorten or extend the duration of their undergraduate degree programs. This means students will now have the flexibility to finish their degree earlier (Accelerated Degree Programme or ADP) or take longer to complete it (Extended Degree Programme or EDP), while still meeting the same academic requirements as the standard duration.

Key Details of the New System:

• Under the new guidelines released as part of the Compendium of UGC Regulations, higher education institutions (HEIs) can offer two distinct options –
  • accelerated degree programme (ADP)
  • extended degree programme (EDP)
• The UGC’s initiative is also in sync with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises learner-centric education and skill development.
• Same Credits, Different Duration: In both ADP and EDP, students will earn the same number of credits as in the regular degree program, but they will do so in either a shorter or longer time frame.
  • The degree certificate will state that the student has completed the program in a shortened or extended duration, and these degrees will be treated the same as a regular degree for academic and job purposes.
• Option to Choose Duration: Students can choose to shorten their program by completing more credits per semester (ADP) or extend their program by taking fewer credits per semester (EDP).
• Evaluation and Eligibility: HEIs will form committees to evaluate which students are eligible for the ADP or EDP. These committees will assess students based on their performance during the first or second semester.
  • The committee will decide whether a student can take on extra credits (for ADP) or reduce credits (for EDP) to fit the chosen duration.
• Degree Certification: Once the student completes the program within their opted duration, HEIs will issue the degree. There is no need to wait for the standard duration to end.
  • The degree will include a note mentioning that the program was completed in either a shortened or extended time frame.
• Foreign University Model: This system of flexible degree durations is similar to what is already offered by several top foreign universities, which allow students to complete their degrees faster or slower based on their preferences.
• Guidelines for HEIs: HEIs are allowed to reserve up to 10% of their intake for students who choose the ADP. A committee will review applications from students who want to opt for ADP or EDP after their first or second semester, and select those eligible for the program.
• Transcripts and Evaluation: The student’s transcripts will reflect the actual courses taken each semester. The evaluation system for these students will remain the same as for regular students. Both ADP and EDP students will undergo the same exams and assessment process as regular students.