UGC to Allow Undergrads Complete 3-Year Degrees in 2 Years, 4-Year Degrees in 3 Years: Benefits for Students
The University Grants Commission (UGC) plans to introduce a flexible undergraduate degree system from the 2025-26 academic session towards transforming the higher education system in India. Under this initiative, students can complete their degrees at a faster or slower pace according to their needs and abilities. This progressive approach is in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes personalized learning, multiple entry and exit points, and lifelong learning.
Here’s how students will benefit from this policy change:
Flexible Degree Timelines for Personalized Learning
Under this new policy of UGC, students:
- Can complete a three-year degree in two and a half years or extend it to four years.
- Can complete a four-year degree in three years or extend it to five years.
This flexibility gives students the freedom to shape their academic journey according to their pace of education and life circumstances. Whether they want to complete a degree quickly or balance studies with personal responsibilities, they can now set their own timelines.
Faster Path to Career Opportunities
Students who choose to complete their degrees faster can enter the job market or pursue higher education before their peers. Completing a three-year degree in two and a half years gives students the following benefits:
- Earlier job opportunities.
- Savings of time and academic expenses.
- Earlier admission to postgraduate or professional programmes.
UGC Chairman Prof M Jagadeesh Kumar said that this initiative empowers students to manage their studies without compromising on their academic goals.
Inclusion of Work Experience as Academic Credit
UGC guidelines recognize work experience as an important part of education. Students can now earn academic credits for practical experience acquired during their studies. This initiative:
- Connects academic knowledge with the business world.
- Enhances employment opportunities.
- Provides students with a better understanding of industry requirements.
Expansion of Research and Academic Opportunities
Under the four-year degree system, students will get several additional benefits, such as:
- Opportunity to participate in advanced research projects.
Applications for patents and academic publications. - Deep understanding of subjects, which better prepares students for competitive careers and higher education.
- This structure promotes innovation and academic excellence, allowing students to acquire the skills and certifications needed to succeed in the global landscape.
Support to Lifelong Learning
This flexible system supports students who may need to take breaks in their studies due to personal or professional responsibilities. NEP’s emphasis on lifelong learning allows students to:
- Quit and resume academic programs without losing previously earned credits.
- Reduce the likelihood of dropouts.
- Continue their education at any stage of their lives.
This approach promotes flexibility and adaptability in students, allowing them to prioritize education throughout their lives.
Multidisciplinary Education Opportunities
NEP’s vision for education focuses on breaking down the barriers between different subjects. Under this flexible system of UGC, students can:
- Explore a variety of subjects and skills during their undergraduate studies.
- Can adopt a multidisciplinary approach, which is crucial for today’s job market.
This broad-based education model prepares students to excel in a dynamic and connected world.
UGC’s decision to offer flexible degree completion options is a major step towards modernizing India’s higher education system. This policy promotes academic, professional, and personal growth by empowering students to choose their learning pace, incorporate work experience, and explore multidisciplinary education.
As the 2025-26 academic year approaches, this initiative will enable students to take a more inclusive, adaptive, and future-ready approach to their education.
