UGC’s New 4-Year UG Degree Structure 2025 – Subjects, Credits Explained

The UGC 4-Year Degree Update has been officially implemented across Indian universities starting from the 2025 academic session. This structural transformation marks a significant shift from the traditional 3-year undergraduate system, aligning Indian higher education with international standards and the goals outlined under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. With multiple exit points, credit-based evaluations, and a greater focus on research and multidisciplinary learning, the new degree structure offers students flexibility and enhanced career readiness.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has made this change applicable to all Central Universities, and state and private universities have been advised to adopt the structure through respective academic councils. The UGC 4-Year Degree Update is being hailed as a revolutionary move in Indian education, intended to equip students with both academic depth and practical relevance.

Key Features of the New 4-Year UG Degree Framework

Under the new UGC 4-Year Degree Update, undergraduate education is now designed to be modular, flexible, and learner-centric. This means students can tailor their learning journey according to their personal goals, be it employment, entrepreneurship, or higher studies.

Core features include:

• Four-Year UG Degree with Honours/Honours with Research option

• Multiple Exit Points: Certificate after 1 year, Diploma after 2 years, Bachelor’s after 3 years, Honours after 4 years

• Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) to store and transfer credits between institutions

• Multidisciplinary Curriculum with a mix of major, minor, and skill-based courses

• Emphasis on internships, vocational training, and research projects

• Grading based on Continuous Internal Evaluation + End-Term Exams

This UGC 4-Year Degree Update puts student flexibility at the center of the academic model, empowering learners to take control of their pace and path.

Year-Wise Structure and Credit System

The credit system under the new UGC 4-Year Degree Update has been meticulously structured to support lifelong learning and lateral mobility between institutions. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the new UG structure:

Students who exit early can rejoin within seven years using the Academic Bank of Credits, preserving continuity and reducing drop-out risks.

Subject Streams, Minor Options & Multidisciplinary Choices

The UGC 4-Year Degree Update promotes interdisciplinary learning and offers students the flexibility to select minors and electives from unrelated fields. This ensures holistic academic exposure and employability.

Some options under this structure include:

• A BSc Physics major with a minor in Economics or Philosophy

• A BA Political Science major with a minor in Data Science

• A BCom student taking electives in Psychology or Environmental Studies

• Inclusion of value-added courses like Indian Knowledge Systems, Yoga, Ethics, and AI Fundamentals

Students also get to choose skill development modules aligned with NSDC standards, giving them access to vocational certifications within their UG timeline.

Internship, Research & Holistic Development

From the second year onwards, the UGC 4-Year Degree Update requires students to participate in internships, community projects, or research work, depending on their academic track.

• Honours with Research students will complete a year-long dissertation supervised by faculty

• All students must undergo 8 to 12 weeks of industry or field internship

• Institutions are encouraged to partner with local industries, startups, and NGOs

• Students can earn extra credits for online courses via SWAYAM, NPTEL, or other approved platforms

• There is also a new focus on mental health, peer mentoring, and life skills

These changes are aimed at creating well-rounded, socially aware, and job-ready graduates.

Grading Pattern and Evaluation Reforms

The grading system has also been revamped under the UGC 4-Year Degree Update. The new model combines internal assessments, semester-end exams, and practical components to offer a balanced evaluation.

Key grading reforms include:

• Use of 10-point CGPA system

• 40% weightage for internal assessments (projects, quizzes, presentations)

• 60% for semester-end written/practical exams

• Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 4.5 for honours degree

• Grading rubrics developed for creative arts, design, and liberal studies

All evaluation data will now be stored on the National Academic Depository (NAD) and integrated with the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) for better mobility.

Institutions Adopting the New Structure in 2025

As of the 2025–26 academic year, over 100 central, state, and deemed universities have adopted the UGC 4-Year Degree Update, including:

• Delhi University (DU)

• Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)

• University of Hyderabad

• Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

• Jadavpur University

• University of Mumbai and Pune University

• Several autonomous colleges under NEP pilot projects

Private and deemed-to-be universities like Ashoka, Shiv Nadar, and Azim Premji University have already integrated this model as early adopters.

FAQs

What is the main benefit of the UGC 4-Year Degree Update?

It provides students with multiple exit options, greater subject flexibility, and research opportunities aligned with global standards.

Can I rejoin the degree after taking a break?

Yes, you can rejoin within 7 years using the Academic Bank of Credits, provided you meet the credit requirements.

Will a 4-year UG degree be mandatory for all students?

While not mandatory, all universities are strongly encouraged to adopt the structure. Students may still opt for 3-year degrees if available.

Is research compulsory in the fourth year?

Only students opting for Honours with Research are required to complete a research project. Others can choose skill-based or advanced coursework instead.

Will this degree be recognized internationally?

Yes, the 4-year UG model aligns with global systems like those in the US, Europe, and Australia, improving international academic recognition.

Click here to know more.