The University Grants Commission (UGC) and the All India Council of Technical Education (AICTE) have cautioned against online Ph.D. programs offered by educational technology (EdTech) companies in partnership with foreign educational institutions. According to the advisory, these programs lack recognition in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the UGC and AICTE.

Earlier this year, the UGC and AICTE had already alerted their recognized universities and institutions against collaborating with EdTech companies for courses in distance learning and online modes, emphasizing that such “franchise” agreements are not permissible according to established norms.

To uphold the standards for the conferment of Ph.D. degrees, the UGC has formally notified the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of MPhil, Ph.D. degrees) Regulation 2016. All higher educational institutions (HEIs) are mandated to adhere to these UGC regulations and any subsequent amendments when awarding Ph.D. degrees, as stated in a joint order issued by the UGC and AICTE.

In a bid to prevent misinformation, the public, especially aspiring students, is strongly advised not to be swayed by advertisements promoting online Ph.D. programs offered by EdTech companies in collaboration with foreign educational institutions. The notice reiterates that such online Ph.D. programs lack recognition from the UGC. Prospective students and the general public are urged to verify the authenticity of Ph.D. programs in accordance with the UGC Regulation 2016 before considering admission.