Times of India · 11 Aug 2026
UGC asks universities to integrate SWAYAM MOOCs into July 2026 Semester
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has asked higher education institutions to identify approved SWAYAM courses for the July 2026 semester, map them to existing degree programmes and syllabi, and ensure students register within the prescribed deadlines. Universities have also been directed to finalise credit transfer mechanisms and involve SWAYAM Advisory Committees in course selection. Institutions following the relevant UGC regulations may conduct SWAYAM end term examinations on campus. Students can earn SWAYAM credits for up to 40% of the courses offered in a programme during a semester.
Why it matters
The UGC directive signals a shift in how online learning is positioned within Indian higher education from an optional supplementary resource toward a more integrated component of academic programmes. Embedding SWAYAM courses into curricula can expand students' access to specialised learning opportunities while allowing institutions to supplement their in-house course offerings with courses developed by national academic and technical institutions.
For universities, the move places greater emphasis on curriculum planning, academic equivalence and effective credit-transfer processes. Institutions will need to carefully evaluate whether selected MOOCs align with programme objectives, syllabi and expected learning outcomes rather than simply increasing online course participation.
The provision allowing eligible institutions to conduct examinations on campus can further reduce logistical barriers for students. More broadly, effective integration of SWAYAM could strengthen flexible learning pathways and support multidisciplinary education, provided institutions maintain academic oversight, assessment quality and consistency in credit recognition.
Source: Times of India (opens in a new tab)
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