UGC introduces new rules for recognition of foreign degrees to enhance higher education in india

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has unveiled a new set of rules for the recognition and equivalency of foreign degrees, marking a significant step towards promoting internationalization in Indian higher education.

This change is expected to provide clarity and certainty to students returning from abroad with academic credentials.

In line with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the regulations aim to eliminate uncertainties and delays in the evaluation of foreign degrees by establishing a clear, technologically advanced procedure.

As international collaborations and student mobility grow, more students with foreign degrees are entering Indian institutions.

In response, the UGC has created a standardized equivalency framework that defines eligibility requirements, the application process, and the role of recognized authorities.

"Many students return with international qualifications to seamlessly integrate into India's higher education system or workforce. These students need a structured procedure to evaluate foreign credentials without unpredictable delays and procedural ambiguity," said Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman of the UGC.

The key features of the new 2024 regulation outline four main criteria for granting equivalence to foreign qualifications.

These include being awarded by a recognized foreign institution, delivered through full-time, in-person learning (with exceptions for doctoral and post-doctoral qualifications), not solely honorary, and not obtained through a franchise arrangement or pathway program.

Qualifications meeting these requirements will be accepted without prior permission from regulatory bodies such as the National Medical Commission (NMC) or the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE).

Additionally, the regulation provides flexibility for joint and dual degrees earned through cooperative agreements between Indian and international institutions, as long as relevant statutory authorities approve such arrangements.

To maintain efficiency, the UGC has implemented a portal-based system for students to submit requests for recognition and equivalency.

Institutions may also submit inquiries on behalf of students. A special committee will be established to address equivalency-related issues and queries.

Kumar emphasized, “The UGC has developed a transparent, technology-driven mechanism for recognizing foreign qualifications from schools and higher education institutes. This move is crucial given the NEP 2020's vision of transforming India into a global study destination.”

The new rules assist Indian students returning from abroad and create an environment that attracts international students.

The UGC aims to enhance the competitiveness of India's higher education system on the global stage by resolving long-standing issues regarding the recognition of foreign qualifications.

"If Indian institutions are to attract international students, we must ensure fair recognition of degrees earned abroad," Kumar said. He added that this reform is a decisive step towards making India's higher education system more inclusive, competitive, and future-ready.

A special online platform has been created by the UGC for universities to apply and seek clarification. Additionally, a committee has been set up to review representations and resolve equivalency-related disputes.

All secondary, senior secondary, and postsecondary degrees granted by foreign educational institutions are subject to this legislation.

However, professional credentials under the jurisdiction of professional councils will still be assessed by the relevant statutory authorities.

By implementing this historic rule, the UGC has addressed a major gap in India's education system, making it easier for students educated abroad to transition both academically and professionally.