Empowering Students: UGC Introduces Comprehensive Higher Education Reforms

UGC Proposes Flexible Admission Policies for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Programs

The University Grant Commission has taken the required steps to reform the higher education system in India. The new draft regulations released on 5 December underscored that students from any stream in class XII will now be eligible to pursue an undergraduate program of their choice. Additionally, undergraduate (UG) students can opt for any postgraduate (PG) discipline, provided they clear a national- or university-level entrance exam, such as the CUET.

The other notable changes include biannual admissions, greater flexibility in minimum credit requirements for obtaining a degree, and opportunities for interdisciplinary learning through the option to pursue two programs simultaneously. These changes will apply to central, state, private, and deemed universities. They will break down traditional disciplinary rigidities by allowing students to select programs outside their prior streams, as long as they meet the entrance exam requirements.

Irrespective of the discipline taken by students in Class XII they are eligible for admission to any discipline of a UG program, provided they qualify for a national-level or university-level entrance examination in the discipline of the UG program. UGC Chairperson M. Jagadesh Kumar stated these new regulations transform higher education by promoting flexibility, inclusivity, and adaptability. Students have the opportunity to explore diverse learning paths, ensuring that India’s education system evolves to meet global standards.

The new framework promotes mobility between vocational and general education and recognizes prior learning, allowing professional experience to be converted into academic credits. Under the proposed regulations, higher education institutions (HEIs) will conduct admissions twice yearly, in July/August and January/February. The draft also offers multiple entry and exit points, allowing students to transition between academic levels and earn interim certifications, such as diplomas or degrees, based on accumulated credits. However, to earn a degree, students must complete at least 50% of their credits in their core subject, with the remaining credits from multidisciplinary or skill-based courses.

The proposed reforms redefine attendance norms, allowing higher education institutions (HEIs) to adjust minimum attendance requirements based on the program structure, which aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The focus on continuous assessment and flexible curricula supports holistic, multidisciplinary education, according to the UGC. The regulations offer three- or four-year undergraduate (UG) degrees, with options for extension through an extended program or acceleration via an accelerated program. A standard two-year program is available for postgraduate (PG) degrees, but graduates of four-year UG degrees may qualify for a one-year Master’s program. The regulations also emphasize integrating skills, internships, and apprenticeships into UG and PG curricula.

The University Grants Commission's new draft regulations significantly shift India's higher education system, promoting flexibility, inclusivity, and interdisciplinary learning. These reforms align with the National Education Policy 2020, ensuring students pursue diverse academic and career paths while meeting global educational standards.

Editor’s Note:

We have moved beyond the time when the science, arts, and commerce stream students had to pursue the same subjects for their undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, limiting their career options to align strictly with their academic backgrounds. The Indian education system has now taken a significant turn, aiming to compete with global standards. The recent draft regulation announcement addresses rigid career choices and provides a fresh perspective on higher education. Introducing biannual admissions, multiple entry and exit points, and a focus on skill-based learning will ensure students have more opportunities to explore diverse academic and career paths. Aligning with NEP 2020 the universities will focus on continuous assessment and flexible curricula, allowing a holistic multidisciplinary education for students.

Skoobuzz believes this forward-thinking approach will undoubtedly enhance the overall educational experience, equipping students to succeed in an ever-evolving world.