The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced new regulations that provide undergraduate (UG) students with the flexibility to complete their degrees either earlier or later than the standard duration. This initiative, announced by UGC Chief M Jagadesh Kumar, aims to foster a student-centric approach to higher education, promoting greater inclusivity and adaptability.

The new framework, outlined in the Compendium of UGC Regulations, offers two distinct pathways for students: the Accelerated Degree Programme (ADP) and the Extended Degree Programme (EDP). The ADP is designed for high-achieving students or those accumulating additional credits, allowing them to graduate ahead of the usual schedule. On the other hand, the EDP accommodates students who may be facing personal, financial, or academic difficulties, giving them the option to extend their degree completion time without facing penalties.

Kumar emphasized that degrees completed through these pathways—whether earlier or later—will be considered equivalent to those completed within the standard duration. He also noted that the initiative aims to benefit students pursuing interdisciplinary studies, professional courses, or those juggling education with work or other personal responsibilities.

In this new system, students will still be required to earn the same total number of credits as in a standard-duration programme. Higher education institutions will have the flexibility to implement these options according to their available resources. Furthermore, these degrees will hold the same weight in terms of employment and academic purposes as degrees completed within the standard timeframe. Institutions will form committees to assess students' eligibility for these programmes, ensuring fair and consistent evaluation.