UGC allows students to pursue any UG program regardless of class 12 stream

In an effort to implement comprehensive reforms in higher education in India, a draft of new University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations declares that students from any stream in Class 12 can now pursue any undergraduate (UG) program they choose.

Similarly, UG students can enroll in any postgraduate (PG) discipline as long as they pass a national or university-level entrance exam, like the CUET.

Additionally, The UGC plans to offer biennial admissions, allow flexibility in the minimum course requirements for a degree, and provide opportunities for interdisciplinary learning by enabling students to pursue two programs simultaneously.

Central, state, private, and deemed institutions would all be included by the draft UGC regulations that were made public for comments and suggestions on Dec 5.

By permitting students to select programs outside of their previous streams, as long as they fulfill the admission exam requirements, the rules seek to eliminate "traditional disciplinary rigidities."

According to the regulations, “Irrespective of the disciplines taken by a student in level 4/Class XII schooling, a student is eligible for admission in any discipline of the UG program if the student qualifies for the national-level or university-level entrance examination in the discipline of the UG program.”

“The draft UGC regulations, 2024, aim at transforming higher education by promoting flexibility, inclusivity, and adaptability. By removing rigid disciplinary boundaries, students can now explore diverse learning opportunities, ensuring India’s education system evolves to global standards,” said UGC chairperson M Jagadesh Kumar.

The recent framework also encourages the conversion of students' work experiences into academic credits and the recognition of prior learning and mobility between general education and vocational education.

Higher education institutions (HEIs) are permitted to hold admissions twice a year, in July/August and January/February, in accordance with these regulations.

Based on the credits they have earned, students can progress through academic levels with provisional certifications such as degrees or diplomas, due to the draft's added options for multiple entry and exit points.

To receive a degree, a student must acquire at least 50% of their total credits in their selected core subject; the other credits may be achieved through skill-based or transdisciplinary courses.

In accordance with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the revisions include reinterpretation of attendance norms, enabling HEIs to customize minimal requirements according to the program structure.

According to UGC, the emphasis on ongoing formative evaluation and curricular content flexibility demonstrates a dedication to supporting multidisciplinary and holistic education.

Additionally, the regulations stipulate that undergraduate degrees must be completed within three or four years, with the opportunity to speed through an accelerated degree program or to extend under an extended degree program.

Although graduates of four-year undergraduate programs may be eligible for a one-year master's program, a two-year program is the norm for PG studies.

The rules support the inclusion of apprenticeships, internships, and skill development in UG and PG programs.