The University Grants Commission (UGC) is set to introduce a new flexible approach for completing undergraduate degrees starting from the 2025-26 academic year. Under this new system, students will have the choice to complete a three-year degree in as little as two and a half years, or a four-year degree in three years, providing an accelerated path for students capable of handling an increased workload.
Additionally, for students who prefer a slower pace, the UGC will allow the option to extend the standard three-year degree to four years and the four-year degree to five years. This flexibility is aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises personalised learning timelines and multiple entry and exit points. This will enable students to pause and resume their studies based on individual circumstances.
UGC Chairman M. Jagadesh Kumar highlighted that the goal is to give students greater control over their education, allowing them to manage their learning pace without compromising on academic goals. He mentioned that students who choose the accelerated track could complete their degrees up to a year earlier, potentially entering the workforce or pursuing further studies ahead of schedule.
The UGC’s new plan includes benefits of four-year degree programs, where students can take on advanced projects, engage in research, and even apply for patents and publications. The flexibility to pause and resume studies, Kumar added, will be particularly helpful for students balancing their education with personal or professional commitments.
How will students benefit from the flexible degree completion options?
The implementation of these flexible degree options is expected to yield several benefits for students:
Personalised Learning Pace: Students can tailor their education according to their capabilities and life circumstances. Those who wish to fast-track their education can do so without being held back by traditional timelines.
Work Experience Integration: The UGC’s new guidelines also recognise work experience as valuable academic credit, allowing students to gain practical insights while pursuing their degrees. This integration enhances employability by aligning academic learning with real-world applications.
Enhanced Academic Opportunities: The four-year degree program will offer additional advantages, such as opportunities for research projects, patent applications, and academic publications during the final year. This structure encourages deeper engagement with subjects and prepares students better for future academic or professional pursuits4.
Lifelong Learning: The NEP’s framework promotes lifelong learning by enabling students to exit and re-enter educational programs without losing previously earned credits. This approach helps reduce dropout rates and supports continuous education throughout a person’s life6.
Multidisciplinary Options: Students will have the flexibility to explore various disciplines during their undergraduate studies. This multidisciplinary approach fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for today’s job market.
