UGC's Updated List of Fake Universities in 2025: What Students Must Know

In an age where education is more accessible than ever, the rise of online and distance learning has opened new pathways for students across India. However, this increased accessibility has also led to a surge in unrecognized and fake institutions operating without approval from regulatory authorities.

To protect students and uphold academic standards, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has released its updated list of fake universities operating in India as of 2025. These institutions are not authorized to confer degrees and should be strictly avoided by aspiring students.

In this article, we will walk you through what fake universities are, why they are dangerous, and how you can ensure a safe and valid admission process through UniAdda, a trusted platform that offers access only to UGC-approved universities.

What Are Fake Universities?

Fake universities are educational institutions that offer degree programs without UGC recognition or legal authorization. These institutions often present themselves as legitimate universities and lure students by offering quick degrees, low tuition fees, or exaggerated promises of guaranteed success.

However, the degrees awarded by these institutions hold no academic or legal value. They are not recognized by employers, other academic institutions, or government bodies.

Falling into the trap of a fake university can have serious consequences on a student's future, leading to financial loss and missed career opportunities.

UGC’s Official List of Fake Universities in 2025

The UGC has published an official list of universities that are operating without its approval. These institutions are not permitted to award any degrees under Section 22 of the UGC Act. Below is the list, categorized by state.

Delhi

• Commercial University Ltd., Daryaganj

• United Nations University

• Vocational University

• ADR-Centric Juridical University

• Indian Institute of Science and Engineering

• Viswakarma Open University for Self-Employment

• Adhyatmik Vishwavidyalaya (Spiritual University)

  
  

Uttar Pradesh

• Varanaseya Sanskrit Vishwavidyalaya, Varanasi

• Mahila Gram Vidyapith, Prayagraj

• Gandhi Hindi Vidyapith, Prayagraj

• National University of Electro Complex Homeopathy, Kanpur

• Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose University, Aligarh

• Uttar Pradesh Vishwavidyalaya, Mathura

West Bengal

• Indian Institute of Alternative Medicine, Kolkata

• Institute of Alternative Medicine and Research, Kolkata

Odisha

• Nababharat Shiksha Parishad, Rourkela

Karnataka

• Badaganvi Sarkar World Open University Education Society, Belgaum

Maharashtra

• Raja Arabic University, Nagpur

Puducherry

• Sree Bodhi Academy of Higher Education

This list is subject to updates, and students are advised to visit the official UGC website (www.ugc.gov.in) to verify the status of any institution before applying.

Why You Should Never Enroll in a Fake University

The implications of studying at an unrecognized institution are severe and long-lasting.

Here are some of the primary risks:

• Degrees are not valid: These qualifications are not recognized by employers, government bodies, or other educational institutions.

• No eligibility for government jobs or higher education: You may be disqualified from applying for competitive exams or postgraduate studies.

• Financial loss: Tuition fees paid to these institutions are non-refundable, and legal recovery is often impossible.

• Career setback: Time invested in a non-recognized degree can delay your career by years.

Being informed and cautious during the admission process is essential to protect your future.

How to Verify if a University Is Genuine

Before enrolling in any university or program, take the following steps to verify its authenticity:

1. Check the UGC website: Search for the university in the list of recognized institutions.

   
   

2. Review accreditations: Look for approvals from UGC, AICTE, NAAC, or other relevant bodies.

   
   

3. Avoid institutions with misleading names: Words like "global", "international", or "world" can sometimes be used to mislead.

   
   

4. Use a verified admission platform: Trusted platforms like UniAdda work only with UGC-authorised institutions.

   
   

How UniAdda Ensures a Safe Admission Experience

UniAdda is committed to helping students make informed, verified, and future-focused educational choices. Our platform lists only UGC-approved and accredited universities, ensuring the degree you earn is valid, respected, and career-relevant.

Key Benefits of Applying Through UniAdda:

• Admission in 100% government-recognised universities

• Up to 30% cashback on selected courses

• Free industry-oriented certifications to boost your employability

• Placement assistance and career support

• Expert academic counseling and application support

Our Partner Universities

All partner universities on UniAdda are verified, recognised by UGC, and trusted across India.

These include:

• JAIN University

• Manipal University

• Chandigarh University

• Lovely Professional University (LPU)

• DY Patil University

• GLA University

• Shoolini University

• Mody University

• Galgotias University

• Bennett University

• Datta Meghe Institute

• Noida International University

When you apply through UniAdda, you can be confident that you are making a safe, smart, and verified educational investment.

Student Experience: How UniAdda Helped Avoid a Fake University

A student from Pune was about to enroll in an unaccredited university offering a fast-track BBA course. Before making the payment, she reached out to UniAdda’s counseling team for advice. The institution was flagged as unrecognized by the UGC. UniAdda guided her to a valid program at Chandigarh University — now, she’s completing her degree online with placement assistance included.

Conclusion

With the UGC regularly identifying and publishing lists of fake universities, students must be cautious and proactive. A degree from a non-recognized institution can waste years of effort and prevent future academic and professional growth.

Choosing a university through UniAdda guarantees that your education is recognised, authentic, and aligned with your career goals.

Get Started With a Trusted Admission Platform

If you're planning to pursue an online degree or distance education in 2025, start your journey with UniAdda. We connect students to approved universities and provide comprehensive support throughout the admission and academic process.