UGC Allows State Colleges To Become Deemed Universities

UGC Allows State Colleges To Become Deemed Universities

Last Updated Apr - 25 - 2026, 04:41 PM | Source : Fela News | Visitors : 5

UGC made new deemed university rules, but states may not easily release colleges.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has brought a major change in higher education rules by allowing autonomous and constituent colleges of state universities to apply for deemed-to-be university status. Along with this, such colleges or units can also become off-campus centres of another deemed university after getting approval from the concerned state government. The new amendment has been officially notified this week.

Under the revised regulation, institutions applying for deemed university recognition must have completed three cycles of NAAC accreditation. This means only colleges with a strong academic and administrative record will be considered eligible for the status.

UGC has also relaxed some compliance rules for institutions receiving government support. According to the amendment, deemed universities that get at least 50 percent funding from the central or state government will not have to repeatedly renew their Memorandum of Association, provided they are able to generate the remaining 50 percent funds through their own resources and prove financial stability through audited records.

The amended rules have also added a new category for institutions sponsored by philanthropic organisations, giving them a clearer route to seek deemed university recognition under the 2023 framework.

However, despite the announcement, education experts believe implementation may not be easy. Many of the colleges that may qualify under this rule are among the best-performing institutions of state universities. Because of this, state governments may be reluctant to denotify these colleges and allow them to move under a centrally regulated deemed university system.

Officials also point out that once a college gets deemed university status, the control over administration and policy matters shifts significantly, which may create political and administrative resistance, especially in opposition-ruled states.

Overall, the UGC’s new amendment is being seen as a significant policy shift aimed at giving more autonomy and flexibility to institutions, but its success will depend on how willingly state governments cooperate in releasing their colleges for this transition.

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