UGC Issues Revised Guidelines for Dual Degrees: Students Can Now Pursue Two Degrees Simultaneously
UGC Issues Revised Guidelines for Dual Degrees: Students Can Now Pursue Two Degrees Simultaneously
In a significant move to promote academic flexibility and align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has officially revised its guidelines, allowing students to pursue two academic programmes simultaneously.
The revised norms, approved during the 589th UGC Commission meeting held on April 3, 2025, aim to enhance student mobility and cater to the evolving demands of higher education in India. The UGC’s new notification enables students to:
Enroll in two full-time physical programmes, provided there is no overlap in class schedules.
Opt for two online or ODL programmes from institutions approved by the UGC, statutory councils, or the Government of India.
These new provisions offer greater academic freedom and cater to students interested in interdisciplinary or skill-based education.
Importantly, the UGC has also validated past instances of dual degree enrolments—provided those degrees adhered to the First Degree and Master Degree Regulations and followed guidelines from relevant statutory bodies or councils. This move brings relief to many students who were uncertain about the legitimacy of their dual qualifications earned in prior years.
However, Ph.D. programmes are excluded from this dual-degree allowance.
The UGC’s decision to allow students to pursue two degrees simultaneously is a landmark step towards holistic and flexible education. It empowers students to explore diverse interests and skillsets, making them more versatile and industry-ready. This change aligns perfectly with the NEP 2020 vision, and institutions like ours at NIF in Kondhwa and Deccan are fully committed to supporting students in making the most of this opportunity.”
— Anil Shinde, Director, NIF (Kondhwa & FC Road Deccan)
All universities and their affiliated colleges have been instructed to implement the revised guidelines through their respective statutory bodies. The UGC emphasized that this initiative reflects the NEP 2020’s vision for a more flexible, multidisciplinary, and inclusive higher education framework in India.
The revised guidelines are effective from the date of official notification issued by the UGC.
