UGC Warns Students Against Unrecognised Online Degree Programmes Offered Through EdTech Tie-ups
New Delhi, Aug. 5 (TNT): The University Grants Commission (UGC) has cautioned students and stakeholders against enrolling in online and Open and Distance Learning (ODL) degree and diploma programmes offered through unauthorised franchisee arrangements between EdTech companies and Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs).
The UGC said it had noticed advertisements by some EdTech companies across newspapers, social media platforms and television promoting degree and diploma programmes in ODL/online modes in association with universities and institutions recognised or entitled by the Commission.
In a public notice, the UGC clarified that such franchisee arrangements are not permitted and that degrees or programmes offered through such arrangements would not be recognised by the Commission.
The Commission said action would be initiated against defaulting EdTech companies and HEIs under applicable laws, rules and regulations.
It advised students and stakeholders to verify the recognition and entitlement status of programmes through the UGC Distance Education Bureau (DEB) website before taking admission.
The UGC said complaints received against unauthorised institutions offering degree programmes are examined and notices are issued seeking explanations.
Institutions found violating norms are included in the UGC’s list of fake universities if their responses are found unsatisfactory.
According to the latest list published in February 2026, 32 institutions have been identified as fake universities.The list is available on the UGC website.
To tackle the issue of fake universities and unauthorised institutions, the UGC established the Anti-Mal-Practice Cell (AMPC) on May 30, 1996.
The cell deals with cases involving fake or unrecognised universities and institutions offering programmes or awarding degrees in violation of the UGC Act, 1956.
The UGC said it has undertaken several awareness initiatives, including issuing show-cause notices and warnings to unauthorised institutions, publishing state-wise lists of fake universities on its website, and issuing public advisories through digital platforms.
The Commission has also requested state governments and Union Territories to take appropriate action against fake universities and institutions operating in their jurisdictions and lodge FIRs wherever necessary.
The information was provided by Minister of State for Education Dr. Sukanta Majumdar in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.
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