UGC Chief Jagadesh Kumar confirmed that Indian Universities and Higher Education Institutions will now have the opportunity to conduct admissions twice a year, following the model of foreign universities. This decision has been approved by the University Grants Commission.
The 2024-25 academic session will feature two admission cycles, scheduled for July-August and January-February.
Jagadesh Kumar said, “If Indian universities can offer admission twice a year, it will benefit many students such as those who missed admission to a university in the July-August session due to a delay in the announcement of board results, health issues, or personal reasons.”
He added “Biannual university admissions will help students maintain motivation since they do not have to wait one full year to be admitted if they miss admission in the current cycle. With biannual admissions in place, industries can also do their campus recruitment twice a year, improving employment opportunities for the graduates.”
The head of UGC clarified that if Higher Education Institutions opt for biannual admissions, they must address administrative complexities, plan effectively to make the most of existing resources, and establish robust support systems for students transitioning at different times of the year. The full benefits of biannual admissions can be realized only through adequate preparation of faculty, staff, and students for this change.
It can additionally boost their international partnerships and student interchange. Consequently, global competitiveness will strengthen, and India will conform to global educational benchmarks.
Kumar stated that while HEIs are not required to offer admissions twice a year, the UGC is giving them the option to do so for those wishing to expand their student capacity and introduce new programs in emerging fields. HEIs must adjust their institutional rules accordingly to facilitate biannual admissions.