Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: TOI
Context: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced new criteria for assessing and accrediting degrees obtained from international universities.
- These criteria include restrictions on degrees acquired through distance learning, online learning, and franchise agreements.
- The guidelines come as foreign universities establish campuses in India and Indian universities collaborate with international institutions for dual or joint degree programs.
The UGC’s draft “Recognition and Grant of Equivalence to Qualifications obtained from Foreign Educational Institutions) Regulations, 2023” covers various aspects such as internationally relevant curricula, academic collaboration with foreign universities, and credit recognition under twinning arrangements.
The conditions for recognizing the equivalence of qualifications obtained from foreign institutions include:
- The foreign institution should be duly recognized in its home country.
- The program must have been pursued through regular, in-person instruction (not online or distance learning).
- Entry-level requirements for admission should be similar to corresponding programs in India.
- The similarity of entry criteria will be evaluated based on factors like program duration, credit requirements, and evaluation processes.
- Equivalence of credit definition (contact hours, self-study hours, etc.) will be established first.
Qualifications obtained from offshore campuses under dual or joint degree programs will be recognized if they meet accreditation requirements in both the host country and the country of origin.
Qualifications obtained through franchise arrangements will not be considered for recognition or equivalence. School-level qualifications obtained from schools affiliated with foreign boards will be recognized if pursued through regular mode and meet specific criteria.
