The University Grants Commission (UGC) has approved new regulations allowing undergraduate (UG) students to complete their degrees earlier or later than the standard stipulated duration. This decision, aimed at enhancing flexibility in higher education, was announced by UGC Chief M Jagadesh Kumar, emphasising a student-centric approach to education.
Under the new guidelines released as part of the Compendium of UGC Regulations, higher education institutions (HEIs) can offer two distinct options – accelerated degree programme and extended degree programme.
Under an accelerated degree programme, students with exceptional academic performance or who complete additional credits can graduate earlier than the conventional timeline. Under the extended degree programme, students facing personal, financial, or academic challenges can take additional time to complete their degrees without penalties.
“UG degrees completed earlier or later to be treated at par with standard duration degrees,” the chairman said while releasing the Compendium of UGC Regulations.
The move is expected to benefit students pursuing interdisciplinary studies, professional courses, or those balancing education with other commitments. Institutions will also have the autonomy to implement these options based on infrastructure and academic resources.
It also aligns with global trends in higher education, where flexible learning paths are increasingly recognized. The UGC’s initiative is also in sync with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises learner-centric education and skill development. HEIs are expected to roll out the necessary frameworks and guidelines soon, paving the way for students to tailor their academic journeys to better meet their goals.
