UGC Warns Students Against Courses Offered by Foreign Universities and Edtech Platforms

The UGC today warned Indian students against taking admission in courses offered by universities in collaboration with foreign universities that are not recognized by the Commission.

This notice is intended to inform the general public and all relevant stakeholders that, in exercise with the authority granted to it under the University Grants Commission (UGC) Act, 1956 (as amended), The UGC has been notified the University Grants Commission (Academic Cooperation between Indian and Foreign Higher Educational Institutions for offering Twinning Programme, Joint Degree, Dual Degree Programme) regulations 2022 and the University Grants Commission (Establishment and operation of campuses of foreign higher educational institutions in India) regulations 2023.

In an official notice, the UGC stated that the Commission has mandated that foreign higher educational institutions must obtain prior approval before offering any program in India. Additionally, the UGC also warned edtech platforms against offering degree and diploma programs in online mode.

The UGC has also been made aware of the fact that some Edtech companies are promoting degree and diploma programs through various mediums such as newspapers, social media and television. These programs are being offered in online mode in partnership with foreign universities and institutions.

The notice states that such franchise arrangement is not permitted and any such programme/degree will not have UGC recognition.

UGC also said that action will be taken against all erring edtech companies as well as HEIs under applicable laws/rules/regulations.

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