The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released its 2026 list of fake universities — educational entities not recognised under the UGC Act, 1956 and therefore not authorised to award valid degrees. The updated list includes 32 such institutions spread across multiple states and Union territories.
Delhi Leads with Highest Number of Fake Universities
According to the latest UGC list:
- Delhi: 12 fake universities
- Uttar Pradesh: 4
- Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Puducherry, West Bengal: Each have 2
- Arunachal Pradesh, Haryana, Jharkhand, Rajasthan: Each have 1 fake university operating within the state borders.
This marks a significant increase from previous years — experts note the number of flagged institutions has risen from around 20 in earlier lists to 32 in 2026, reflecting a growing concern regarding unrecognised degree‑granting bodies.
What Makes These Institutions ‘Fake’?
UGC emphasises that universities identified as fake:
- Do not hold recognition from the Central or any State Government under the University Grants Commission Act, 1956.
- Lack legal authority to confer degrees.
- Issue certificates and degrees that are invalid for employment, higher studies, government admission or professional registration.
The Act restricts the use of the word “university” to institutions established by a Central or State Act, which these fake universities violate.
Why Students Must Be Wary?
Fake universities often attract students by:
- Advertising low fees and easy admissions.
- Promising fast‑track degrees and minimal academic requirements.
- Using names resembling legitimate universities to create confusion
However, degrees from such institutions:
- Will not be recognised for job recruitment in government or public sectors.
- Cannot be used for admission into recognised higher education programmes.
- May negatively impact long‑term career prospects.
UGC Advisory for Students and Parents
UGC has advised all aspirants and guardians to:
- Verify recognition status of any university before admission by checking the official UGC website or using the UGC recognised university directory.
- Confirm professional approvals (e.g., AICTE, NCTE) where applicable.
- Avoid falling prey to deceptive advertisements or promises that seem too good to be true.