UGC’s New Norms on Foreign Degree Equivalence

GS2 – Social Sector – Education

The University Grants Commission (Recognition and Grant of Equivalence to Qualifications obtained from Foreign Educational Institutions) Regulations, 2025 has been officially released. This initiative is in line with the vision of internationalising higher education as envisaged in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Applicability of the Regulations

These guidelines are applicable to:

• All higher educational institutions governed by the UGC for purposes of admission, research, and employment, wherever a UGC-recognised qualification is required.
• Degrees and certifications obtained via online or distance learning modes.
• School-level qualifications from overseas education boards by students applying for undergraduate studies in Indian institutions.

The regulations will not apply to:

• Professional degrees in disciplines such as law, medicine, pharmacy, nursing, architecture, and other domains regulated by Statutory Councils in India.

Exemptions:
Applicants are not required to obtain equivalence certificates if their qualifications are obtained from foreign institutions in collaboration with Indian universities under UGC-approved twinning, joint, or dual degree programs.

Eligibility Criteria for Equivalence

A foreign academic qualification—be it a certificate, diploma, or degree—can be granted equivalence provided that:

• It is awarded by an institution that is legally recognised by the respective national government or its designated authority.
• The entry-level academic requirements, including credit load, internship duration, etc., are comparable with Indian standards.
• The qualification is earned in accordance with the academic policies and procedures of the awarding foreign institution.

Procedure for Issuing Equivalence Certificates

• UGC Portal: An exclusive online platform will be created by UGC for applicants to submit equivalence certificate requests.
• Standing Committee Review: Each application will undergo evaluation by a Standing Committee of academic experts, who are required to provide recommendations within 10 working days.
• Decision and Certificate: The final decision will be issued within 15 days, and successful applicants can download their certificate from the online portal.

Role of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU)

• Historically, the task of certifying equivalence for foreign academic degrees was handled by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
• AIU is a registered body consisting of both public and private universities in India.
• It offers equivalence certificates for foreign qualifications for higher education and employment, excluding regulated professional domains.

AIU also evaluates foreign school education credentials for students intending to pursue undergraduate education in India.