UGC flags 32 fake universities; warns students against unauthorised EdTech tie-ups and invalid degrees

The Union government has informed Parliament that the University Grants Commission (UGC) has identified 32 fake universities across the country, renewing its warning to students against enrolling in institutions that award unauthorised degrees. The disclosure comes amid growing concerns over misleading advertisements by some EdTech platforms and institutions promising guaranteed placements, high-paying jobs and affiliations that do not have regulatory approval.The latest list, published by the UGC in February 2026, was shared in the Rajya Sabha by the Ministry of Education on Wednesday in response to questions regarding fake universities, invalid degrees and misleading educational claims.

UGC warns against unauthorised franchise arrangements

Replying to the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Education Dr Sukanta Majumdar said the UGC had observed that certain EdTech companies were promoting degree and diploma programmes in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and online modes through partnerships with universities and institutions recognised by the regulator.However, the UGC has clarified that such franchisee arrangements are not permitted under its regulations. Degrees and programmes offered through these unauthorised collaborations do not enjoy UGC recognition.The minister stated that action would be taken against both defaulting EdTech companies and higher educational institutions under the applicable legal provisions.

Students advised to verify courses before enrolling

To safeguard students from fraudulent institutions, the UGC has urged applicants, parents and other stakeholders to verify whether a university or programme is recognised before taking admission.Prospective students have been asked to check the recognition or entitlement status of institutions and courses through the UGC’s Distance Education Bureau (DEB) portal and the official UGC website.The advisory assumes significance as online and distance education programmes continue to attract a growing number of learners, making regulatory verification an important step before enrolment.

How institutions are declared fake

The ministry explained that whenever the UGC receives complaints about an institution awarding degrees without legal authority, it first issues a notice seeking an explanation.If the institution fails to provide a satisfactory response, it is added to the UGC’s list of fake universities. Such institutions are not authorised to award degrees under the provisions of the UGC Act, 1956.

Anti-Malpractice Cell monitors violations

The UGC has been tackling such violations through its Anti-Malpractice Cell (AMPC), established on May 30, 1996.The cell examines complaints related to fake or unrecognised universities and institutions that illegally offer academic programmes or award degrees. Besides issuing show-cause and warning notices, the commission periodically publishes state-wise lists of fake universities and releases public awareness notices through its website and social media platforms.The UGC has also requested state governments and Union Territories to initiate appropriate action against such institutions and register FIRs wherever required.

States with fake universities in the latest UGC list

According to the latest list released by the UGC, the identified fake universities are spread across several states and Union Territories.

Among the institutions listed are the All India Institute of Public & Physical Health Sciences (AIIPHS), Commercial University Ltd., United Nations University, Vocational University, Adhyatmik Vishwavidyalaya, Magic & Art University, Gandhi Hindi Vidyapith, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose University (Open University), Indian Institute of Alternative Medicine, and Sree Bodhi Academy of Higher Education, among others.