The University Grants Commission (UGC) has officially reaffirmed the UGC 2-Degree Rule for 2025, continuing its push towards greater flexibility in higher education. This policy allows students in India to pursue two degrees simultaneously, enabling skill enhancement, interdisciplinary learning, and career diversification.
With the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 laying the foundation for such reforms, the 2025 update focuses on eligibility clarity, course compatibility, and mode of delivery, ensuring students make informed choices.
Who is Eligible for Two Degrees in 2025?
As per UGC’s 2025 notification, students are eligible to pursue two academic degrees concurrently if:
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Both degrees are recognized by UGC or statutory bodies like AICTE, NCTE, or PCI.
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The student meets the minimum eligibility for both programs (e.g., 10+2 for UG, graduation for PG).
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The programs do not have mandatory attendance conflicts (especially for offline courses).
Working professionals and full-time students are both covered under this rule, provided time management and institutional norms are respected.
Permitted Combinations: Online + Offline or Dual Online
UGC has approved several course delivery combinations for the dual degree framework in 2025:
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One full-time offline course + one online course from a recognized platform (e.g., SWAYAM, IGNOU, NPTEL)
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Two online degree courses from different universities (if compatible)
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Two physical degree courses in different shifts (morning/evening) or from separate institutions (with written consent)
Important: Students cannot enroll in two full-time offline courses at the same time in the same shift or campus without official approval.
Course Combinations Allowed in 2025
While there’s no restriction on disciplines, students are encouraged to choose combinations that complement each other or align with their career goals. Some popular combinations in 2025 include:
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B.Sc. (Computer Science) + B.A. (Economics)
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B.Com + Diploma in Data Analytics (Online)
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M.A. (Psychology) + PG Diploma in Counselling
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BBA + B.A. (Sociology)
Certain professional courses like MBBS or B.Tech may have institutional restrictions, so students must check with the university before applying.
Universities Must Enable Dual Enrollment
UGC has directed all public and private universities to update their admission portals and issue dual degree guidelines. As of July 2025:
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Over 300 universities have integrated dual degree options
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Online portals like IGNOU, DU SOL, and NMIMS Global offer fast-track admissions for second degrees
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AICTE-approved engineering colleges are also considering diploma add-ons in parallel
Students must submit separate applications for both degrees and ensure they fulfill the attendance, exam, and fee requirements for each.
Benefits of Pursuing Two Degrees
The dual degree policy opens new possibilities for students and working professionals alike:
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Multiple career paths and broader job opportunities
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Skill diversification (e.g., combining technical and social sciences)
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Saves time compared to pursuing degrees sequentially
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Boosts chances in competitive exams (like UPSC, UGC NET)
Employers in both public and private sectors are also showing increased acceptance of dual credentials, especially in interdisciplinary roles.
FAQs
Is it legal to pursue two degrees at once in 2025?
Yes, the UGC 2-degree rule 2025 allows students to pursue two recognized degrees simultaneously under approved conditions.
Can I do two offline degrees together?
Only if they are in different shifts or institutions and do not clash in timing. UGC discourages two full-time offline degrees in the same time slot.
Are all universities allowing dual degree enrollment?
Most major universities have adopted the policy, but it’s advised to check the official website or prospectus for each institution.
Will both degrees be valid for government jobs and competitive exams?
Yes, if both are recognized by UGC or a statutory body, they will be valid for employment and examination purposes.
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