Page 322 - Compendium of UGC Regulations 1957-2023

Regulations pertaining to Autonomy to HEIs:

(f) “Open & Distance Learning” mode means a mode of providing flexible learning
opportunities by overcoming separation of teacher and learner using a variety of media,
including print, electronic, online and occasional interactive face-to-face meetings
with the presence of an HEI or Learner Support Services to deliver teaching-learning
experiences, including practical or work experiences;

(g) “Times Higher Education/QS Rankings” means annual publication of university rankings
by Times Higher Education (THE) magazine and by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS);

(h) “University” means University established or incorporated by or under a Central Act, a
Provincial Act or a State Act, and includes an institution deemed to be university;
Words and expressions used and not defined in these regulations but defined in the
University Grants Commission Act, 1956 and not consistent with these regulations
shall have the meanings respectively assigned to them in that Act.
3. Framework for Categorization of Universities for Grant of Graded Autonomy
The Commission shall categorize Universities into following three categories i.e. Category-I,
Category-II and Category-III based on the parameters laid down in sub-clauses (i), (ii) and
(iii) and as notified by the Commission through detailed guidelines from time to time.
(i) Category-I University:

University shall be in Category-I if
a. It has been accredited by NAAC with a score of 3.51 or above; or
b. It has received a corresponding accreditation grade/score from a reputed
accreditation agency empanelled by the UGC; or
c. It has been ranked among top 500 of reputed world rankings, such as Times
Higher Education or QS.
(ii) Category-II University:

University shall be in Category-II if
a. It has been accredited by NAAC with a score of 3.26 and above, upto 3.50; or
b. It has received a corresponding accreditation grade/score from a reputed
accreditation agency empanelled by the UGC;
(iii) Category-III University:

University shall be in Category-III if it does not come either under Category-I or
Category-II.
4. Dimensions of Autonomy for Category-I Universities
4.1 Universities shall be automatically deemed to be under section 12B of the University
Grants Commission Act, 1956 and no inspections by the Commission shall be required
for the same.
4.2 Universities may start a new course/programme/department/school/centre in disciplines
that form a part of its existing academic framework without approval of the UGC,
provided no demand for fund is made from the government on account of starting the
new course/programme/department/school/ centre. Degree programs shall be consistent
with the approved nomenclature of the UGC. Diploma and certificate courses approved
by its Statutory Authorities or Statutory Regulatory Authorities wherever required, may
be started in new and innovative areas that are relevant to local, national or international
needs, with information to the UGC :

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University Grants Commission