Fake Universities in India: UGC Warns Delhi College for Unapproved Degrees
UGC warns against fake universities in India, including one Delhi college, for offering unapproved degrees. Students urged to verify recognition before admission.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has warned students about fake universities in India, including one in Delhi. The Institute of Management and Engineering in Kotla Mubarakpur was found offering unapproved degree programmes.
This notice was issued in October 2025 after reports showed that the institute was not recognised under the UGC Act, 1956. The UGC said that the institute’s degrees are not valid for jobs or further studies. It is neither approved by the Centre nor listed under Sections 2(f) or 3 of the UGC Act.
UGC Lists 22 Fake Universities in India
The UGC has identified 22 fake universities in India operating without approval. Delhi has the highest number, with nine such institutions. Uttar Pradesh comes next with five, while the rest are spread across Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, West Bengal, Maharashtra, and Puducherry.
Delhi’s large student population and booming private education sector make it a soft target. Many unapproved colleges use official-sounding names like “National,” “Technology,” or “Management” to appear genuine. As per student sources, several of these colleges also promise “industry partnerships” and “international validation” to attract admissions.
In Uttar Pradesh, the trend is slightly different. Institutions there often use words such as “Vidyapith,” “Parishad,” or “Open University.” According to posts online, they offer cheap and quick degrees that look official but hold no legal status.
Social media videos suggest that students realise the fraud only after graduation. Some have shared stories of rejected job applications and wasted years of study.
Why Fake Universities in India Still Operate
The problem of fake universities in India is not new. The UGC has issued several warnings over the years, but many fake institutions continue to function. The main reason is weak enforcement and low public awareness.
The UGC keeps a public list of recognised universities on its website. Yet, many students never check it before applying. Instead, they trust coaching agents, online ads, and flashy brochures. Some are misled by sponsored search results that look official but promote fake colleges.
Experts say UGC can only issue warnings. Legal action must be taken by state governments, which often delays closure. During this time, fake universities change names or move locations and continue business as usual.
Education analysts also note that punishment for such frauds is rare. Without strict and quick action, the scam continues to grow. Degree fraud has become a low-risk, high-profit business across several states.
Students Advised to Verify Before Admission
The UGC has asked students to verify every university before admission. Here are key steps:
- Check if the university is listed under Sections 2(f) or 3 of the UGC Act.
- For technical or medical courses, confirm approval from AICTE, PCI, or NMC.
- Use DigiLocker or NAD to verify the authenticity of issued degrees.
- Avoid institutions that claim “international validation” or “autonomous status” without UGC recognition.
As per student forums, fake universities in India often promise direct admission or low fees. Such offers are red flags and should be treated with caution.
A Continuing Threat to India’s Education System
The rise of fake universities in India hurts students and the country’s education system. Thousands of young people waste time and money every year on worthless degrees. It also damages the global image of Indian higher education.
Experts believe the solution lies in strict monitoring, faster legal action, and stronger awareness drives. State governments must work closely with UGC and police to shut these fake colleges quickly.
Delhi’s high number of unrecognised institutions shows how deep the issue runs. The mix of high demand, easy advertising, and low checks keeps the racket alive.
Conclusion: Verify Before You Trust
The growing number of fake universities in India is a serious concern. Students should verify recognition on the UGC website before paying any fee. Checking details takes minutes but can save years of regret.
The recent UGC warning against the Delhi Institute of Management and Engineering is a reminder for all. It is not just one fake college—it is a warning about a nationwide problem.
India’s youth deserve real education, not fake promises. Awareness and verification are the best shields against this ongoing fraud.
