UGC Flags 32 Fake Universities, Warns Students Against Misleading EdTech Degree Offers

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a warning to students against enrolling in unauthorised online and distance learning programmes promoted by certain EdTech platforms, stating that degrees obtained through such arrangements will not receive official recognition.

The higher education regulator said some EdTech companies have been advertising degree and diploma courses through Online and Open & Distance Learning (ODL) modes in collaboration with universities and institutions. However, the UGC clarified that franchise arrangements for offering online programmes are not permitted and any course or degree offered through such partnerships will not be considered valid.

The commission said action will be taken against defaulting EdTech companies and Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) under applicable laws, rules and regulations. It also advised students and parents to verify the recognition and entitlement status of programmes through the UGC’s Distance Education Bureau (DEB) website before applying for admission.

The UGC further stated that 32 institutions have been identified as fake universities in its latest list published in February 2026. These institutions have been found to be operating without legal authority to award recognised degrees.

According to the Ministry of Education, complaints against unauthorised institutions are examined by the UGC, which issues notices seeking explanations. Institutions failing to provide satisfactory responses are included in the official list of fake universities.

To tackle the growing issue of fake institutions, the UGC established the Anti-Mal-Practice Cell (AMPC) on May 30, 1996. The cell monitors cases involving fake or unrecognised universities offering programmes or awarding degrees in violation of the UGC Act, 1956.

The commission has also taken several measures, including issuing show-cause notices, publishing state-wise lists of fake universities, creating awareness among students and requesting state governments and Union Territories to take legal action against such entities.

The information was shared by Minister of State for Education Dr. Sukanta Majumdar in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.