NEW DELHI: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released an updated list identifying 22 fake universities operating across India without valid recognition. The Commission has cautioned students and parents against seeking admission to these institutions, emphasizing that they are not authorised to award degrees under the provisions of the UGC Act, 1956. Consequently, any qualifications obtained from these entities are deemed academically and professionally invalid.
The list, released in October 2025, once again puts the spotlight on the menace of unrecognized educational institutions misusing the term “university” to mislead students. The UGC has clarified that only universities established by Acts of Parliament or State Legislatures, or recognised as Deemed-to-be Universities under Section 3 of the UGC Act, are legally permitted to award degrees.
Delhi Tops the List of Fake Universities
The National Capital Territory of Delhi has emerged as the hub of fake universities, with 10 institutions operating without legal recognition, the highest in the country. In its notification, the UGC specifically mentioned the case of the Institute of Management and Engineering, located in Kotla Mubarakpur, Delhi, which falsely claims to offer degree programs. The commission stated:
The UGC clarified that the institute has not been established under any Central or State Act, nor does it have recognition under Sections 2(f) or 3 of the UGC Act. Hence, any degree awarded by it is invalid for academic or professional purposes.
The UGC further emphasized that students must verify the recognition status of any university before seeking admission, either through the official UGC website or by checking the list of approved institutions published annually.
State-Wise Breakdown of Fake Universities Identified by UGC (October 2025)
Delhi (10 Institutions)
- All India Institute of Public & Physical Health Sciences (AIIPHS) State Government University
- Commercial University Ltd., Daryaganj, Delhi
- United Nations University, Delhi
- Vocational University, Delhi
- ADR-Centric Juridical University, New Delhi
- Indian Institute of Science and Engineering, New Delhi
- Viswakarma Open University for Self-Employment, Rozgar Sewasadan, Delhi
- Adhyatmik Vishwavidyalaya (Spiritual University), Rithala, Rohini, Delhi
- World Peace of United Nations University (WPUNU)
- Institute of Management and Engineering, Kotla Mubarakpur
Uttar Pradesh (4 Institutions)
- Gandhi Hindi Vidyapith, Prayag, Allahabad
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose University (Open University)
- Parishad, Bharat Bhawan, Matiyari Chinhat, Faizabad Road, Lucknow
- Mahamaya Technical University
Andhra Pradesh (2 Institutions)
- Christ New Testament Deemed University
- Bible Open University of India, Visakhapatnam
West Bengal (2 Institutions)
- Indian Institute of Alternative Medicine, Kolkata
- Institute of Alternative Medicine and Research
- Maharashtra (1 Institution)
- Raja Arabic University, Nagpur
Puducherry (1 Institution)
Sree Bodhi Academy of Higher Education, No. 186, Thilaspet, Vazhuthavoor Road
Kerala (2 Institutions)
- International Islamic University of Prophetic Medicine (IIUPM), Kunnamangalam, Kozhikode
- St. John’s University, Kishanattam
The UGC has strongly advised students to cross-check the recognition status of any university before enrolling in courses, particularly those that advertise degrees through unconventional or online formats.
The commission has made the complete list of recognized universities available on its official website, which includes:
- Central Universities
- State Universities
- Private Universities established by State Acts
- Deemed-to-be Universities under Section 3 of the UGC Act
The Secretary of UGC also reiterated that “awarding degrees without statutory recognition is a punishable offence.” Students graduating from fake institutions face difficulties in employment, further education, and professional licensing.
The Commission has also collaborated with state governments and law enforcement agencies to initiate action against such fraudulent entities. Notices have been issued to some of the listed institutions to cease operations immediately.
UGC’s Efforts to Curb Fake Universities
The UGC periodically updates and publishes the list of fake universities to safeguard students from falling prey to fraudulent educational setups. In recent years, the commission has taken steps to:
- Strengthen public awareness through online notices and press releases.
- Collaborate with AICTE, NAAC, and state education departments to verify accreditation claims.
- Launch a centralized database of approved universities for students’ reference.
- Coordinate with law enforcement for prompt action against repeat offenders.
UGC officials have warned that institutions found continuing to operate without authorization will face legal and financial consequences, including prosecution under the relevant provisions of the law.
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