UGC announces new fee refund policy for Higher Education Institutions

New Delhi,UPDATED: Jun 13, 2024 15:15 IST

Amid ongoing grievances from students and parents over Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) failing to refund fees upon admission cancellations or withdrawals, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has unveiled a robust fee refund policy for the academic session 2024-25.

During its 580th meeting on May 15, the UGC decided that HEIs must provide a full refund of fees for all cancellations or migrations of students up to September 30. A nominal processing fee of no more than Rs 1,000 will be deducted for refunds processed up to October 31, 2024.

This policy applies to all HEIs established or incorporated under Central or State Acts, as well as those recognised by the UGC under Section 2(f) of the University Grants Commission Act, 1956.

It also includes institutions deemed to be universities under Section 3 of the same Act, and all HEIs affiliated with a university.

Moreover, the guidelines extend to organisations conducting admissions and fee collection on behalf of HEIs. Each institution is responsible for ensuring timely fee refunds as per the new regulations.

Direct link to check the official notice

For admissions schedules beginning after October 31, HEIs must adhere to the UGC's October 2018 notification on fee refunds, which specifies percentages of refunds based on the timing of withdrawal relative to the formally notified last date of admission.

The UGC emphasised that this policy will remain in effect for subsequent academic sessions until revised. They also highlighted their commitment to addressing student grievances through the Redressal of Grievances of Students Regulations, 2023.

Any delay or denial of fee refunds beyond the stipulated timelines will be considered a serious breach, subjecting the HEI to punitive actions as outlined in the UGC's 2018 notification.

HEIs are urged to implement the new fee refund policy diligently for the academic year 2024-25 and to promptly address any related grievances in accordance with UGC regulations.