UGC warns against unapproved foreign collaborations in higher education

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a new advisory cautioning students and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) against engaging in unauthorized collaborations with foreign educational providers.

The regulatory body emphasized that any degree or diploma offered through such unapproved tie-ups will not be recognized in India and will be considered invalid.

“Degrees issued through such collaborations are not recognized by the Commission,” the UGC said, adding that legal action would be taken against defaulting institutions and EdTech companies.

This warning reinforces an earlier notification issued on Dec 12, 2023, where the UGC had flagged concerns about Indian institutions partnering with foreign entities outside the scope of existing regulations.

Under the frameworks notified in 2022 and 2023, all joint degrees, dual degree programs, and foreign campus arrangements must receive prior approval from the Commission.

Despite the existing guidelines, the UGC noted that several HEIs and EdTech platforms continue to promote joint or online programs with unrecognized foreign partners.

The Commission also criticized the growing trend of aggressive marketing by EdTech firms across platforms like social media, television, and newspapers, which it said misleads students.

The advisory urged both students and the general public to verify the credentials of academic programs before enrolling.

“They would be doing so at their own risk and consequences,” it said.