DELHI: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a fresh warning to students and parents after identifying 32 fake universities across India and cautioning against enrolling in online and Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes offered through unauthorised EdTech franchise arrangements. The advisory comes at a crucial time as admissions for the new academic session are underway, urging aspirants to verify the legitimacy of institutions before taking admission.
Replying to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Education Dr. Sukanta Majumdar informed Parliament that the latest UGC list, published in February 2026, includes 32 institutions that are illegally awarding degrees without recognition. He also highlighted that some EdTech companies have been advertising degree and diploma programmes in partnership with recognised universities through franchise arrangements for online and ODL courses—an arrangement that is not permitted under UGC regulations. Any degree obtained through such unauthorised collaborations will not be recognised.
The UGC has advised students to carefully check the recognition status of universities and online programmes through the official UGC and Distance Education Bureau (DEB) portals before enrolling. The Commission stressed that verifying an institution’s credentials can help students avoid financial loss and invalid degrees that may not be accepted for higher education or employment.
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To curb the spread of fake universities, the UGC’s Anti-Malpractice Cell (AMPC) continues to investigate complaints against institutions operating in violation of the UGC Act, 1956. The regulator has issued show-cause notices, warning letters, and public advisories, while also requesting state governments and Union Territories to initiate legal action, including registering FIRs and shutting down institutions found operating illegally.
According to the latest list, Delhi has the highest number of fake universities with 11 institutions, followed by Uttar Pradesh, while several other states also feature on the list. The UGC has made the complete state-wise list publicly available to help students make informed decisions before applying for admissions.
The latest warning underscores the growing need for vigilance in India’s higher education sector, especially as online learning continues to expand. Education experts advise students to rely only on official government portals for verification and avoid institutions or EdTech platforms making unrealistic promises of guaranteed placements or fast-track degrees without proper regulatory approval.