On 28 July 2026, the University Grants Commission (UGC) issued a circular clarifying the framework for offering One-Year Postgraduate Programmes through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and/or Online mode under the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020.
Key Takeaways:
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UGC has permitted eligible Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to offer One-Year Postgraduate Programmes through ODL and/or Online mode in accordance with NEP 2020.
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Admission is restricted to learners who have successfully completed a Four-Year Bachelor’s Degree with Honours and satisfy the applicable eligibility requirements.
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Only HEIs already recognised or entitled by the UGC to offer a corresponding Two-Year Postgraduate Programme through ODL and/or Online mode may introduce a One-Year PG Programme in the same discipline.
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The proposed programme must receive approval from the competent statutory bodies of the HEI, including the Board of Studies, Academic Council, Executive Council, or equivalent authority, as applicable.
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The programme must comply with NEP 2020, applicable UGC Regulations and Guidelines, and the norms prescribed by the concerned Regulatory Bodies.
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For professional programmes such as MBA, MCA and PGDM, entry-level eligibility will continue to be governed by the conditions prescribed by the respective Regulatory Bodies.
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The curriculum, learning resources, assessment, credit framework and other academic requirements must comply with the relevant UGC Regulations and statutory norms.
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The circular supersedes the UGC’s earlier notification dated 24 July 2026.
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The One-Year PG Programme may be offered only in the same discipline as the corresponding Two-Year PG Programme already recognised or entitled by the UGC.
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Institutions cannot introduce such programmes without obtaining the required approvals and complying with the applicable UGC and regulatory requirements.
Also Read: UGC prohibits Online or Distance Mode Education for Healthcare Education
[UGC Circular, dated 28-7-2026]
