UGC Directs HEIs: 25% Extra Seats For International Students In Indian Colleges

To enhance the internationalisation of Indian higher educational institutions (HEIs), the University Grants Commission (UGC) has reiterated guidelines requiring the reservation of additional seats for international students. These guidelines, initially released in September 2022, mandate HEIs to allocate up to 25% of supernumerary seats for international students. However, the decision to implement this quota lies with individual institutions, considering factors like infrastructure and faculty availability.

The UGC has issued new guidelines for the admission and creation of supernumerary seats for international students in undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at Indian HEIs. The aim is to simplify the admission process for international students, making India a preferred destination for higher education. This initiative aims to attract more international students and enhance the global reputation of Indian education.

Understanding Supernumerary Seats

Supernumerary seats are additional seats beyond the approved intake permitted by the appropriate authority and the government. These reserved supernumerary seats are specifically allocated for international students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, excluding those involved in exchange programmes. Any remaining vacant seats will be allocated exclusively to international students.

Admission Guidelines for International Students

Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) are instructed to admit international students based on the equivalence of their entry qualifications. They are encouraged to follow a transparent admission process to ensure fairness and accessibility for international applicants.

The supernumerary seats in professional and technical institutes will be regulated by the respective statutory bodies. Seats for PhD programs will adhere to regulations outlined by the UGC.