The UGC has decided to allow students to pursue two degrees concurrently. Students can now obtain two degrees simultaneously in a single academic year, regardless of whether the degrees are pursued through regular, distance, or online modes. This rule will also be applied retroactively to previously earned degrees.
UGC Update: A significant development has occurred in higher education in India. The University Grants Commission (UGC) has amended its guidelines to clarify that two degrees obtained in the same academic year will be fully valid. This decision brings relief and new opportunities to millions of students, especially those who have pursued education in regular and distance modes concurrently in past years. Let's understand this new rule in detail and who will benefit from it.
What is the new UGC rule?
In 2025, the UGC updated its guidelines, announcing that a student can now pursue two degrees in the same academic year, and both will be recognized as valid. These degrees can be obtained through the following modes:
- Both degrees in regular mode, provided class timings do not clash.
- One degree in regular mode and the other in distance or online mode.
- Both degrees in distance or online mode.
This change applies to undergraduate (UG), postgraduate (PG), and diploma courses. MPhil and PhD programs are excluded from this rule.
What was the situation before?
Previously, UGC regulations were not as clear. A committee formed in 2012 suggested that only a diploma or certificate course could be pursued in distance mode alongside a regular degree. Pursuing two regular degrees concurrently was not permitted.
Some relaxations were introduced in 2020, stating that a distance or online degree could be pursued alongside a regular degree. However, pursuing two degrees in regular mode remained prohibited. In 2022, following the recommendations of NEP 2020, the UGC allowed two regular degrees, but with the condition that class timings should not overlap.
Recognition for degrees obtained before 2022
A significant aspect of the new guidelines is their retroactive application to degrees earned before 2022. This means that if a student previously pursued a regular and a distance degree concurrently, both will now be recognized. This offers significant relief to students who were previously concerned about recognition for employment or higher education opportunities.
How will students benefit?
Enhanced Career Preparation: Students can now specialize in two fields simultaneously, giving them an advantage in competitive exams or job applications.
Time and Cost Savings: Pursuing two degrees concurrently will save students time and reduce overall fees.
Globally Competitive Education: This decision aligns with international standards, enhancing the global competitiveness of Indian students.
Improved Opportunities for Freshers: New degree holders will have access to multiple career options, increasing their employment prospects.
Who is this rule not applicable to?
The UGC has clarified that this rule applies only to undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma courses. It will not apply to research degrees such as MPhil and PhD, as these programs require full-time commitment and intensive research work.
For further information on this new rule, students and parents can visit the official UGC website (https://www.ugc.ac.in/) and read the new guidelines in detail.
