The University Grants Commission (Minimum Standards of Instruction for the Grant of Undergraduate Degree and Postgraduate Degree) Regulations, 2025 marks a landmark moment in Indian higher education, aiming to modernize academic practices and align them with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. These regulations, which come into force upon their publication in the Official Gazette, seek to create a student-centric, flexible, and inclusive learning ecosystem.
Applicability and Scope
The regulations are binding on all universities established under Central, State, or Provincial Acts, as well as all deemed universities under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956. This comprehensive applicability ensures uniformity and accountability across the higher education system in India.
Emphasis on Flexibility and Student Mobility
One of the most progressive features of the 2025 regulations is the emphasis on biannual admissions, allowing students to enter in either July/August or January/February. Combined with multiple entry and exit points, students can pursue UG and PG education at their own pace. For instance, a student can exit after one year of undergraduate study with a certificate, re-enter later, and continue toward a diploma or full degree within a maximum span of seven years.
Furthermore, Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) has been institutionalized as a cornerstone of this system. Through ABC, credits earned across various modes—regular, online, ODL (Open and Distance Learning), or RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning)—can be accumulated, transferred, and redeemed, enabling seamless mobility across institutions and disciplines.
Curriculum and Evaluation Overhaul
Institutions now have more autonomy to design their curriculum, delivery methods, and evaluation systems in alignment with the National Higher Education Qualifications Framework (NHEQF). Emphasis is placed on continuous formative assessment, alongside traditional exams. Attendance requirements are to be determined by each institution, considering the growing use of flexible, tech-enabled learning modes.
Postgraduate Structure and RPL
For postgraduate programmes, the regulations bring in flexibility in duration—1-year for students with a 4-year honours degree and 2-year programmes for others. Importantly, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) formalizes knowledge and skills acquired outside traditional classrooms, validating experiential learning for academic progression.
Ensuring Compliance and Quality
The UGC has laid down stringent penalties for non-compliance, ranging from debarment from UGC schemes to complete removal from recognized lists. This ensures institutions maintain high standards and do not deviate from the objectives of the new framework.
