UGC Makes PhD more accessible and inclusive under NEP; Masters not needed to pursue doctoral programme and NET exam

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced a significant revision in the eligibility criteria for pursuing a PhD and appearing for the National Eligibility Test (NET). In an announcement made by UGC Chairman Jagadesh Kumar, it was revealed that students with four-year undergraduate (UG) degrees are now eligible to directly pursue PhD and sit for the NET examination.

This development marks a departure from the previous requirement, which mandated candidates to possess a master’s degree for eligibility. The decision opens up new avenues for students who have completed a four-year bachelor’s programme, enabling them to enter the research domain without the intermediary step of obtaining a master’s degree.

According to  Kumar, candidates with four-year undergraduate degrees can now embark on a PhD journey in their chosen subject, regardless of the discipline of their bachelor’s degree. He also outlined specific eligibility criteria, including the minimum percentage of marks required for consideration.

In addition to the eligibility criteria, Kumar emphasised the provision for relaxation in marks for certain categories of candidates. This provision is aimed at ensuring equitable access to higher education opportunities for marginalised and underrepresented groups, including those belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC) (non-creamy layer), differently-abled individuals, economically weaker sections, and other designated categories.

These changes signify a significant step towards broadening access to doctoral studies and research opportunities in India. By eliminating the prerequisite of a master’s degree, the UGC aims to make the pursuit of higher education more accessible and inclusive. This move aligns with ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in higher education institutions across the country.