Ultimate Guide to Identifying Fake Universities in India: How to Protect Your Education

but also a gateway to your future career. Unfortunately, the rise in online degree programs and the demand for higher education has also led to a surge in fake universities. These fraudulent institutions offer degrees that hold no value and could jeopardize your professional aspirations. This guide aims to help students identify fake universities in India, based on the University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines, to ensure you make an informed decision about your education.

Selecting the right university is a crucial decision that shapes your academic and professional future. In India, the presence of unrecognized and fake universities has become a significant concern. Degrees from such institutions are not only invalid but can also lead to legal issues and financial loss. This comprehensive guide aims to help you verify the recognition status of universities and provides an updated list of institutions identified as fake by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

What Are Fake Universities?

Fake universities, also known as unrecognized or unauthorized institutions, operate without the approval of the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India. These entities claim to offer legitimate degrees and certifications but lack the authority to do so under the UGC Act, 1956. As per Section 22(1) of this Act, only universities established by a Central, State, or Provincial Act, institutions deemed universities under Section 3, or institutions specially empowered by an Act of Parliament can legally confer degrees.

Understanding University Recognition

The University Grants Commission (UGC) is the statutory body in India responsible for maintaining higher education standards. It grants recognition to universities, authorizing them to confer degrees legally. Recognized universities fall into the following categories:

  • Central Universities
  • State Universities
  • Deemed Universities
  • Private Universities

The Risks of Enrolling in a Fake University

  • Invalid Degrees: Qualifications from unrecognized institutions are not accepted by employers or other educational establishments.
  • Financial Loss: Tuition fees and related expenses paid to fake universities are often non-refundable.
  • Legal Issues: Enrolling in unauthorized programs can lead to legal complications.
  • Career Setbacks: Time spent at a fake university delays your educational and professional progress.

Need a Visa Application?

Need a consultation? Call us today +91 99626 50280 or email us: info@globoprime.com

Visa Types

State-wise List of Fake Universities in India

State-wise List of Fake Universities in India (Updated 2024)

The University Grants Commission (UGC) of India periodically releases a list of unrecognized institutions, commonly referred to as “fake universities,” which are not authorized to confer degrees. As of 2024, the UGC identified 21 such institutions across various states.

Andhra Pradesh

Institution Address
Christ New Testament Deemed University #32-32-2003, 7th Lane, Kakumanuvarithoto, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh-522002, and Fit No. 301, Grace Villa Apts., 7/5, Srinagar, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh-522002
Bible Open University of India H.No. 49-35-26, N.G.O’s Colony, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh-530016

Delhi

Institution Address
All India Institute of Public & Physical Health Sciences (AIIPHS) State Government University Office Kh. No. 608-609, 1st Floor, Sant Kripal Singh Public Trust Building, Near BDO Office, Alipur, Delhi-110036
Commercial University Ltd. Daryaganj, Delhi
United Nations University Delhi
Vocational University Delhi
ADR-Centric Juridical University ADR House, 8J, Gopala Tower, 25 Rajendra Place, New Delhi – 110008
Indian Institute of Science and Engineering New Delhi
Viswakarma Open University for Self-Employment Rozgar Sewasadan, 672, Sanjay Enclave, Opp. GTK Depot, Delhi-110033
Adhyatmik Vishwavidyalaya (Spiritual University) 351-352, Phase-I, Block-A, Vijay Vihar, Rithala, Rohini, Delhi-110085

Karnataka

Institution Address
Badaganvi Sarkar World Open University Education Society Gokak, Belgaum, Karnataka

Kerala

Institution Address
St. John’s University Kishanattam, Kerala
International Islamic University of Prophetic Medicine (IIUPM) Kunnamangalam Kozhikode, Kerala-673571

Maharashtra

Institution Address
Raja Arabic University Nagpur, Maharashtra

Puducherry

Institution Address
Sree Bodhi Academy of Higher Education No. 186, Thilaspet, Vazhuthavoor Road, Puducherry-605009

Uttar Pradesh

Institution Address
Gandhi Hindi Vidyapith Prayag, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose University (Open University) Achaltal, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh
Bhartiya Shiksha Parishad Bharat Bhawan, Matiyari Chinhat, Faizabad Road, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh – 227105
Mahamaya Technical University PO – Maharishi Nagar, Distt. GB Nagar, Opp. Sec 110, Sector 110, Noida – 201304

West Bengal

Institution Address
Indian Institute of Alternative Medicine Kolkata
Institute of Alternative Medicine and Research 8-A, Diamond Harbour Road, Builtech Inn, 2nd Floor, Thakurpurkur, Kolkata – 700063

How to Spot a Fake University: Red Flags to Watch Out For

1. Absence of UGC Recognition

The UGC maintains an official list of recognized universities in India. The University Grants Commission (UGC) is the statutory body responsible for maintaining higher education standards in India.

Action Steps:
Visit the UGC website: www.ugc.ac.in
Navigate to the “Universities” section.
Search for the university by name.
Warning: If the university is not listed, it’s a major red flag.

2. Unrealistic Academic Offers

Instant Admissions: Be cautious of guaranteed admissions without standard eligibility criteria.
Accelerated Degrees: Degrees offered in unusually short time frames without rigorous coursework are suspicious.
Guaranteed Placements: No legitimate university can promise job placements; they may offer assistance but not guarantees.

3. Suspicious Website and Infrastructure

Website Quality: Legitimate universities have professional websites with detailed information on programs, faculty, accreditation, and facilities.
Lack of Transparency: Beware of poorly designed websites with limited information or those claiming false affiliations.
Physical Campus: If possible, visit the campus. A lack of proper infrastructure is a warning sign.

4. Unconventional Communication Methods

Official Channels: Accredited universities use official communication methods, such as university domain emails.
Red Flags:
Reliance solely on phone calls, texts, or messaging apps like WhatsApp for official communication.
Absence of official contact information on their website.

5. Questionable Fee Structures

Exorbitant or Unusually Low Fees: Fees that are significantly higher or lower than average warrant scrutiny.
Unusual Payment Methods: Requests for cash payments or transfers to personal accounts are unprofessional.
Pressure Tactics: Urging immediate payment without allowing time for verification is concerning.

Steps to Verify a University’s Legitimacy

1. Consult the UGC’s List of Recognized Universities

Access the List: Visit the UGC’s official website and check the “Universities” section.
Verify Details: Confirm the university’s name, location, and authorized programs.

2. Check the UGC’s List of Fake Universities

Stay Updated: The UGC regularly updates its list of unrecognized institutions.
Direct Link: UGC Fake Universities List
Action: If the university appears on this list, do not proceed with enrollment.

3. Verify Accreditation

NAAC Accreditation: Ensure the university is accredited by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).
Professional Councils: For specialized programs, verify approval from bodies like AICTE, NMC, or BCI.

4. Research Faculty Credentials

Qualified Staff: Legitimate universities employ faculty with verifiable qualifications and experience.
Faculty Profiles: Check for detailed faculty information on the university’s website.

5. Read Student Reviews and Testimonials

Online Platforms: Explore forums, social media, and educational websites for student feedback.
Consistent Patterns: Multiple negative reviews or complaints about legitimacy are red flags.

6. Use Search Engines and Social Media

Due Diligence: Search for the university’s name alongside terms like “fake,” “scam,” or “legitimate.”
Beware of Fake Reviews: Be cautious of overly positive reviews that seem scripted.

7. Contact the UGC Directly

Helpline: Call 1800-111-656 for assistance.
Email: Send inquiries to ugc@nic.in.

Stay Vigilant, Secure Your Future

Your education is a stepping stone to your aspirations. By being informed and cautious, you ensure that no fraudulent institution can hinder your path to success. Always verify, consult, and research before making educational commitments.

 

Are Online Programs from Indian Universities Fake?

Online programs offered by Indian universities are not inherently fake. Many reputable universities in India provide legitimate and recognized online courses and degree programs. However, due to the rise in popularity of online education, some unaccredited institutions may offer illegitimate programs. It’s essential to verify the authenticity of an online program before enrolling.

Understanding the Legitimacy of Online Programs

UGC Approval

The University Grants Commission (UGC) is the statutory body responsible for coordinating, determining, and maintaining standards of higher education in India.

In 2018, UGC allowed higher education institutions meeting certain criteria to offer online degree programs.

Verification: You can check the list of UGC-approved universities offering online programs on the official UGC website.

Accreditation

Institutions offering online programs should be accredited by bodies like the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). A minimum NAAC score of 3.26 on a 4-point scale is often required for universities to offer online degrees.

Distance Education Bureau (DEB)

The DEB under UGC regulates distance and online education in India.

DEB Recognition: Ensure the program is recognized by DEB by checking the DEB portal.

How to Verify an Online Program

Visit Official Websites

  • UGC-DEB Portal: Access the list of approved online programs at https://deb.ugc.ac.in/.
  • University’s Official Website: Check for accreditation details and UGC approval notices.

Check Accreditation Scores

  • Verify the institution’s NAAC score.
  • Higher scores indicate better quality and credibility.

Contact Regulatory Bodies

Beware of Red Flags

  • Unrealistic Promises: Degrees offered in unusually short durations.
  • Lack of Transparency: No clear information on faculty or curriculum.
  • Suspicious Payment Methods: Requests for full payment upfront via untraceable methods.

Reputable Universities Offering Online Programs

  • Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
  • Amity University Online
  • Sikkim Manipal University
  • Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning
  • Annamalai University

These institutions are well-known and have received proper accreditation to offer online degrees.

Conclusion

Verifying the recognition status of a university is an essential step to safeguard your educational investment. By relying on official sources like the University Grants Commission (UGC) and conducting thorough research, you can avoid the pitfalls of fake universities and ensure that your degree holds value in the professional world.

Remember, a legitimate education not only equips you with knowledge but also opens doors to a successful future. Make sure to choose accredited and recognized institutions for a bright academic and professional journey.

We specialize in providing personalized, end-to-end support for students from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, who aspire to study abroad. Our services are designed to make your study abroad journey seamless, from choosing the right university to settling abroad.

Overseas Education consultant in Chennai Tamil Nadu