UGC Flags 32 Fake Universities Operating Across India

The University Grants Commission (UGC) in India has sounded an alert for students and parents about the growing problem of fake universities in the country. In its February 2026 update, the Commission revealed that 32 such unrecognized institutions are currently operating across 12 states.

These fake universities are not approved under the UGC Act, 1956, and therefore cannot legally award degrees. Any certificate or qualification from them has no value for higher studies, government jobs, or official recognition.

Delhi leads the list with 12 fake universities, followed by Uttar Pradesh with 4, while the remaining ones are spread across other states. The UGC has urged students to double-check the status of any university before applying—something that can be easily done through the official UGC website.

In its statement, the Commission emphasized that it’s working to curb these fraudulent practices and protect students from being misled by unauthorized institutions. It has also encouraged the public to report suspicious universities, so appropriate action can be taken.

A UGC notice regarding one such fake university is attached below.