List of fake universities by UGC: Exposed
Nov 04, 2025 - By Ashutosh Roy Current AffairsEducation & TechGovernance & AdminNational NewsRegional UpdatesSocial IssuesSociety
UGC Bans Fake Universities
The University Grants Commission has released finally an updated list of 22 “fake” or unrecognized universities in India. Hence, UGC has clearly stated that these institutions are not empowered to award valid degrees. As a result, Degrees from these fake universities have no academic or professional value, by default. The simple yet subtle cautionary message sent to the students, parents and teachers and also the Higher Educational Institutes (HEI). The UGC is also pursuing legal action against these universities.
List of Fake Universities
Surprisingly, the fake universities are intensified only in a few states, with Delhi topping the list containing 10 such institutes. Uttar Pradesh (4) ranks the next. Andhra Pradesh (2), Kerala (2), West Bengal (2) are the followers. Subsequently, Even Maharashtra and Puducherry contain 1 each. Additionally, the reliable sources reveal that some of these universities are charging quantum amount as the admission and the yearly charges.
As education is in the concurrent list of the constitution, the state government can’t simply shrug off its soldiers. As these institutes have been built up in the concerned states, so the states remain their prime student base. The state education departments should remain equally proactive. We know we live in an age, where education has become a lucrative business and its flourishing like never before. Whether its at school level or at the Higher Education level, the investors treat it as the thriving industry.
Hence, the quality control and sanctity has become pivotal concern areas. Moreover, there are allegations that the close inmates of the rulers remain mostly behind these institutes. Whatever the background may be, we should not play with the aspirant students communities. It’s a responsibility of the state Government to ensure a congenial education environment.
Bar for enrolling in PhD
Besides these, UGC has barred three private universities from enrolling PhD students for five years (2025-2030) for non-compliance with regulations in Rajasthan namely OPJS University, Sunrise University, and Singhania. The UGC has also banned certain healthcare and allied programs through open and distance learning (ODL) and online modes for the 2025-26 academic year. The subjects concerned are Psychology, Microbiology, Food and Nutrition Science, Biotechnology and Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics. The National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) Act. Has made it compulsory to ensure proper practical training and maintaining professional standards.
Caution for the Students
The University Grants Commission has clarified that, students can report their concerns to the UGC or the relevant state education department, in case a university’s legitimacy is in doubt.
Mainly it signals a message to the students willing to pursue for Higher Education not to be attracted by the glittering advertisements, rather to remain informed before the admissions.
Knowledge Mart Insights
Education is in the concurrent list of constitutional provision in the federal structure of India. So, The centre and the state have to shake hands to stop such fake Universities. We have see much debate on NEP curriculum. Unfortunately these mushrooming Universities have been coming up to fulfill the gap in the demand supply chain.
As the Government fails to adequately equip them with infrastructure and man power, students are going to these institutions. It is also undeniable that some of the private Universities and Colleges have been able to prove their mettle.
Another problem, which can not be ignored that venture capitalists and politicians are looking at the education segment as business proposition of high profit. The unholy nexus between some business typhoons with the political power lobby have also made the situation worse.
If the Government fails to provide adequate education institutes and they treat Private Public Partnership (PPP) Model in education segment, they have to maintain strict monitoring and vigilance. That’s how such fake Universities can end, else they will play with the students at their most vulnerable stage of life.