The University Grants Commission (UGC) has directed higher education institutions (HEIs) across the country to identify suitable SWAYAM Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and integrate them into their academic curriculum for the July 2026 semester.
Universities and colleges have also been asked to ensure that eligible students complete their course registrations within the timelines specified by the respective national coordinators.
The move is part of the UGC’s efforts to strengthen digital learning and support the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which promotes multidisciplinary education, academic flexibility and greater choice for students.
Students Can Earn Up to 40% Credits Through SWAYAM
The Commission reiterated that under the UGC Credit Framework for Online Learning Courses through SWAYAM Regulations, students are allowed to earn up to 40 percent of the credits required in a semester through approved online courses offered on the SWAYAM platform.
The framework aims to provide learners with greater flexibility, encourage self-paced education and improve access to high-quality academic resources regardless of location.
Wide Range of Courses Available
SWAYAM is the Government of India’s flagship online learning platform, offering courses across multiple disciplines through leading educational institutions and national coordinators.
Students can choose from programmes offered by UGC, the Consortium for Educational Communication (CEC), IGNOU, AICTE, IIM Bangalore, NITTTR, IIT Madras through NPTEL, and several other Institutions of National Importance. These courses enable students to complement their classroom learning while earning recognised academic credits.
Registration Deadlines Announced
The UGC has also released the registration schedule for the July 2026 SWAYAM semester.
Students enrolling in courses offered by UGC, CEC, IGNOU, IIM Bangalore, AICTE, NITTTR and other Institutions of National Importance can register until August 31, 2026.
For NPTEL courses coordinated by IIT Madras, registration deadlines depend on the duration of the course. The first phase of registrations will close on July 27, while the second phase will remain open until August 17.
Boosting Digital Learning in Higher Education
The latest directive reflects the UGC’s continued focus on integrating digital education into mainstream higher learning. By encouraging institutions to adopt SWAYAM MOOCs, the Commission aims to improve academic mobility, expand access to quality education and help students acquire industry-relevant knowledge through flexible learning pathways.
The initiative is expected to further strengthen India’s digital education ecosystem while supporting the country’s vision of creating a more accessible, technology-enabled and learner-centric higher education system.
