UGC Chairman Jagadesh Kumar says new foreign degree norms will align Indian education with global standards – The Times of India

NEW DELHI: In a major reform aimed at promoting internationalisation in Indian higher education, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced a new set of regulations for the recognition and equivalence of foreign qualifications. The UGC (Recognition and Grant of Equivalence to Qualifications Obtained from Foreign Educational Institutions) Regulations, 2024, were notified on March 22, 2024, and have come into force from the same date.
The new framework is expected to provide clarity and predictability for students returning from overseas with academic qualifications. By laying out a transparent and technology-driven process, the regulations aim to eliminate delays and ambiguities in assessing foreign degrees, thereby aligning with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Structured framework to evaluate foreign credentials
With growing student mobility and international collaborations, Indian institutions are seeing a steady influx of students with foreign qualifications. Recognising this trend, the UGC has introduced a standardised equivalence framework that clearly defines eligibility criteria, the process of application, and the role of recognised authorities.
“Many students return with international qualifications to seamlessly integrate into India’s higher education system or workforce. Such students need a structured procedure to evaluate foreign credentials without unpredictable delays and procedural ambiguity,” said Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman, UGC.
Key features of the new regulation
Under the 2024 regulation, equivalence will now be granted if the qualification meets four broad criteria:
1. It is awarded by a recognised foreign institution.
2. It is delivered through full-time, in-person learning (exceptions exist for doctoral and post-doctoral qualifications).
3. It is not solely an honorary qualification.
4. It is not obtained through a franchise arrangement or pathway programme.
Qualifications that meet these standards will be recognised without any need for prior approval from regulatory bodies such as the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) or National Medical Commission (NMC).
Additionally, the regulation provides flexibility for joint degrees and dual degrees obtained through collaborative arrangements between Indian and foreign institutions, as long as such arrangements are approved by relevant statutory authorities.
Technology-driven and transparent process
In a move to ensure efficiency, the UGC has set up a portal-based system for students to submit requests for recognition and equivalence. Institutions can also request clarification on behalf of students. The system will be supported by a dedicated committee for redressal of disputes and queries related to equivalence.
Kumar highlighted, “UGC has developed a transparent, technology-driven mechanism for recognizing foreign qualifications from schools and higher education institutes. This move is crucial given the NEP 2020’s vision of transforming India into a global study destination.”
Step toward internationalisation and inclusion
The new regulation not only benefits Indian students returning from abroad but also creates a conducive environment for attracting international learners. By addressing long-standing issues related to foreign qualification recognition, UGC aims to make the Indian higher education system more competitive globally.
“If Indian institutions are to attract international students, we must ensure fair recognition of degrees earned abroad,” Kumar said. He added that with this reform, “UGC has taken a decisive step through this significant reform toward making India’s higher education system more inclusive, competitive, and future-ready.”
Portal launched for ease of application
UGC has launched a dedicated online portal for submitting applications and for institutions to seek clarifications. A committee has also been formed to examine representation cases and resolve disputes related to equivalence.
Implementation and scope
The regulation applies to all degrees and qualifications awarded by foreign educational institutions at the secondary, senior secondary, and higher education levels. However, professional qualifications that fall under the purview of professional councils will continue to be evaluated by the respective statutory authorities.
With this landmark regulation, UGC has addressed a critical gap in India’s academic landscape, facilitating smoother academic and career transitions for globally educated students.