UGC Directs Universities to Conduct Exams and Award Degrees Without Delay
New Delhi, India, December 6, 2025 – The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a directive to all universities and higher education institutions across India, urging them to conduct examinations and award degrees on time. The move comes in response to growing concerns that delays in assessments and certification are hindering students’ academic progression and career opportunities.
In its communication, the UGC emphasized that examinations must be held strictly in accordance with the academic calendar and that degrees should be conferred shortly after the results are declared. The Commission cited its regulations, including the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Degrees) Regulations, which mandate the timely execution of these processes.
The UGC pointed out that Clause 4.4 of the University Grants Commission (Grant of degrees and other awards by Universities) Regulations, 2008, provides that “the Degree award dates shall be within 180 days of the dates by which the students are expected to qualify and become eligible for them”.
Similarly, Clause 2.6 of the UGC Guidelines for Students’ Entitlement, 2012, provides that “the students are entitled to timely conduct of examination and declaration of results as specified in the academic calendar in the Prospectus. They shall be entitled to the award of degree within 180 days of the declaration of results.”
The Commission warned that institutions failing to comply with these instructions could face punitive action. Such measures may include administrative penalties, withdrawal of recognition, or other disciplinary steps to enforce accountability.
“The Commission has the power to take punitive action for non-compliance.”
— UGC
Education experts note that delays in examinations and degree issuance have long been a source of frustration for students, particularly those seeking employment, applying for competitive examinations, or pursuing higher studies abroad. The UGC’s directive is seen as a step toward strengthening institutional credibility and safeguarding student interests.
The Commission’s move also aligns with the broader national vision of creating a transparent, efficient, and student-centric higher education system. By enforcing strict timelines, the UGC aims to reduce grievances, improve academic governance, and ensure that students are not deprived of opportunities due to bureaucratic inefficiencies.
Key Points
- Exams must follow the academic calendar
- Degrees to be awarded shortly after results
- UGC cites regulatory framework for compliance
- Warning of punitive action against delays
- Directive aims to protect student opportunities
“Students must not suffer due to administrative delays — universities are expected to conduct exams and award degrees on time.”
— UGC
The Registrar of Panjab University in Chandigarh has announced that the institution will confer degrees and conduct its Annual Convocation on December 13, 2025.
CitiTimes 