The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a fresh directive (D.O.No.F.12-5/2024(FNT/NET)-FeeNivaran) reaffirming its Fee Refund Policy for the academic session 2025–26. The Commission has urged all Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to comply strictly with the policy guidelines originally prescribed for the 2024–25 academic session, which remain in force until further notice. The communication, signed by Prof. Manish R. Joshi, Secretary, UGC, reiterates that institutions found violating the policy will face punitive action under Clause 5 of the UGC Notification on Refund of Fees and Non-Retention of Original Certificates (October 2018).
Ensuring Transparency and Student Welfare
Over the years, UGC has been at the forefront of ensuring transparency, fairness, and student welfare in the higher education ecosystem. The Fee Refund Policy, first introduced in 2018 and subsequently refined through annual circulars, aims to safeguard students from financial hardship during the admission and withdrawal processes.
For the academic session 2025–26, the policy continues to uphold the student-friendly provisions that mandate timely and transparent refund procedures. HEIs are required to adhere to the cut-off date of October 31, 2025, and resolve all pending refund-related cases from previous academic years (2021–22 to 2024–25).
Key Provisions of the UGC Fee Refund Policy
- Full Refund Timeline:
A full refund of fees (with zero cancellation charges) must be made for all cancellations of admission or migration up to September 30, 2025. For withdrawals made between October 1 and October 31, 2025, institutions may deduct a maximum of ₹1,000 as processing charges. - Refund Processing Period:
All eligible refunds must be issued within 15 days from the date of receiving a written application from the student. - Non-Retention of Original Certificates:
HEIs are strictly prohibited from withholding students’ original academic and personal documents such as mark sheets, transfer certificates, or school-leaving certificates. Only self-attested copies may be collected for verification. Originals must be verified in the student’s presence and returned immediately. - Caution Money and Security Deposit:
These amounts, which are not part of the academic fee, must be refunded in full, without any deductions. - Grievance Redressal Mechanism:
Any delay or denial in the refund of fees will now be treated as a legitimate grievance under the University Grants Commission (Redressal of Grievances of Students) Regulations, 2023. Students may file complaints directly with the institution’s grievance cell or approach the UGC through the official channels if the issue remains unresolved.
Zero Tolerance for Non-Compliance
The UGC has received numerous complaints and RTI applications from students alleging non-refund of fees by certain private and self-financing institutions. Taking cognizance of these violations, the Commission has warned that any HEI found guilty of disregarding refund guidelines will face stringent punitive measures, as per the October 2018 Notification.
A Step Toward Accountability in Higher Education
This renewed emphasis on the Fee Refund Policy underscores UGC’s commitment to protecting students’ financial interests and promoting ethical conduct among educational institutions. The Commission has clarified that the 2024–25 Fee Refund Policy remains applicable for 2025–26 and subsequent academic sessions until a revised version is notified.
By reinforcing compliance and accountability, UGC aims to foster a student-centric academic environment where financial transparency, fairness, and respect for student rights remain paramount.
For further information, HEIs and stakeholders may contact the UGC office at secy.ugc@nic.in or visit the official website www.ugc.ac.in.