The University Grants Commission announces new regulations for qualification mapping
By Trisha Nagpal
In April, The University Grants Commission (UGC) notified new regulations for granting equivalence to foreign educational institutions’ qualifications, promising a 15-working day processing timeline that aims to end the months-long delays faced by returning students. The revised model will also establish a robust, transparent and standardised framework for recognising and recording foreign qualification equivalences through the introduction of an online portal. The equivalency guidelines apply to all overseas degrees except for programmes accredited by or regulated by norms of professional bodies which will remain under the jurisdiction of their regulatory authorities. Additionally as per existing UCG regulations degrees obtained through franchising arrangements will also not be considered for equivalence. The new centralised equivalency process will be conducted directly by the UGC, replacing the existing Association of Indian Universities (AIU) managed process.
The regulations emphasise the Government of India’s ongoing commitment to creating standardised credit and qualification frameworks and pathways that promote horizontal, vertical and complementary mobility as defined by the NEP (2020). The enhanced mapping and recording of international qualifications demonstrate a commitment to integrated and reciprocal partnerships, including through in-country TNE models, between Indian and global providers. Additionally, the regulations reiterate that franchised qualifications are not recognised by the Government of India and internationally certificated programmes need to be demonstrably delivered by a licensed provider to be considered for equivalence. International HE providers need to ensure that their TNE strategies remain in alignment with UGC regulations to ensure compliance and the validity of their awards.
