Li India Detailed Credential Templates PDF
Li India Detailed Credential Templates PDF
Category: Secondary
Issuing Body:
Three All India Boards:
– Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)
– Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE)
– National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS)
State Boards of Secondary Education (www.nios.ac.in/media/documents/recognisedboard.pdf)
Admission Requirements:
•Graduation from elementary/upper primary school (representing 8 years of schooling)
Program Description:
•Ten-year combined primary and secondary education program (current structure)
Secondary (also called lower secondary) schools in India provide two years of general
education. Upon completion of secondary education, students receive a certificate by passing
an external examination given by either the State Board of Secondary Education or one of the
three All-India boards.
• Admission into higher secondary school and further vocational and technical training
IQAS Recommendations:
Course Equivalencies:
Grade 10 level courses.
IQAS Rationale:
Program Description
Secondary education (also called lower secondary or high school) is not compulsory. In most
states it lasts two years from Class 9 to Class 10 following the completion of elementary
school (Class 8) and represents 10 years of schooling (8+2). Some older certificates represent
the completion of 11 years of schooling (9+2).
The curriculum includes subjects such as languages, math, science, and the arts. Secondary
school teachers generally hold a one-year postgraduate Bachelor of Education (B.Ed), with
entry based on completion of a first bachelor’s degree.
The following table shows the subjects and time allocations for secondary education as
recommended by the Ishwarbhai Patel Committee in 1977. The committee indicated that the
scheme was illustrative only, leaving it to the state boards to decide whether to make some
subjects compulsory and others elective.
Secondary (Classes 8/9-10) Subjects, 1977
Subjects Hours
(per week)
Languages 8
Math 4
Science 5
History, civics, and geography (as one course) 3
One of the following: the arts (music, dancing, painting, etc.), 2
home science, agriculture, commerce, economics, social
reconstruction, classical languages, etc.
Socially useful productive work (SUPW) and community service 6
Games, physical education, and supervised study 4
Total 32
The 2000 National Curriculum Framework lists the following subjects for secondary
education:
Secondary (Classes 9-10) Subjects, National Curriculum Framework, 2000
Stage Subject
Three languages – mother tongue/regional language, modern Indian
language, and English
Math
Secondary Science and technology
Social sciences
Work education
Art education
While following the National Curriculum Framework in terms of educational structure and
general course patterns, the state boards prescribe specific subjects and syllabi for schools
under their jurisdiction and for their secondary school certificate examinations. The following
table lists the subjects and time allocation for secondary education in the state of Tamil Nadu.
Conclusion
Secondary education in the Republic of India requires graduation from elementary school for
admission and takes two years to complete, representing a total of 10 years of schooling.
Earlier programs in some states may have represented a total of 11 years of schooling. Upon
completion of their study, students must sit external examinations administered by the State
Board of Secondary Education or one of the three All-India Boards to receive the Secondary
School Certificate or equivalent. The certificate allows an individual to seek employment or
admission into higher secondary school, industrial training institute (ITI) or polytechnic. Based
on the above information and placement recommendations of other evaluation resources,
IQAS compares the Secondary School Certificate or equivalent (from the current structure) to
the completion of Grade 10.
Grading:
The percentage system is predominantly used. The Indian system is low marking, and the
minimum pass mark generally ranges between 30 and 35%. Grades above 80% are rarely
awarded. Grading scales adopted by the state boards and the three All India boards vary and
may have changed over time. A common grading scale at the secondary and higher secondary
levels is given below:
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) puts all the candidates who passed the
Class 10 or Class 12 examination in a ranking order to award the grades. The top 0.1% of
candidates will receive Merit Certificates. The minimum pass mark for each subject is 33%.
The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) adopts a nine-point scale.
Grades 1-6 indicate “pass with credit”, with 1-2 as “very good”. Grades 7-8 indicate “pass”,
and grade 9 “failure”. The minimum pass mark for each subject is 40%.
CISCE Grading Scale
Grade Descriptor
1
2
3
Pass with Credit
4
5
6
7
Pass
8
9 Failure
Category: Secondary
Issuing Body:
Three All India Boards:
– Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)
– Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE)
– National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS)
State Boards of Higher Secondary Education
(www.nios.ac.in/media/documents/recognisedboard.pdf)
Admission Requirements:
•Secondary School Certificate or equivalent
Program Description:
•Two-year higher/senior secondary education program (current structure)
Higher/senior secondary schools in India provide two years of education in the academic or
vocational stream. Upon completion of higher secondary education, students receive a
certificate by passing an external examination given by either the State Board of Higher
Secondary Education or one of the three All-India boards.
IQAS Recommendations:
Generally compares to the completion of a High School Diploma.
Course Equivalencies:
30-level (Grade 12) courses.
IQAS Rationale:
Program Description
Higher secondary (also called senior secondary) education lasts two years from Class 11 to
Class 12. It is divided into the academic/general stream, which prepares students for higher
education, and the vocational stream, which prepares students for employment and may lead to
further education in vocational and technical fields. More than 90 per cent of students choose
the academic stream, which is often divided into subject groups such as science, arts, and
commerce. Earlier higher secondary programs in some states may have represented a total of
11 years of schooling.
Higher secondary education is provided mostly by schools and also by some colleges. Senior
secondary school teachers generally hold a one-year postgraduate Bachelor of Education
degree, with entry based on completion of a first bachelor degree, plus a master’s degree.
The National Review Committee on Higher Secondary Education of 1978 recommends the
following course pattern for both the academic and vocational streams:
The 2000 National Curriculum Framework prescribes the following course groups for higher
secondary education. In the academic stream, foundation and elective courses should take up
about 40% and 60% of instructional time respectively. In the vocational stream, language,
general foundation courses and health and physical education take up about 30% of
instructional time, with the remaining 70% devoted to vocational electives.
While following the National Curriculum Framework in terms of educational structure and
general course patterns, the state boards prescribe specific subjects and syllabi for schools
under their jurisdiction and for their higher secondary certificate examinations. In some states,
students in Classes 11-12 opt for a subject group such as science, arts and commerce. The
following tables give examples of higher secondary subjects of three states, Andhra Pradesh,
Madhya Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. The information is obtained from the official websites of
educational authorities of these states; please refer to the websites for further details.
Conclusion
Higher/senior secondary education in the Republic of India requires a Secondary School
Certificate or equivalent for admission and takes two years to complete, representing a total of
12 years of schooling. Upon completion of their study, students must sit external examinations
administered by the State Board of Higher Secondary Education or one of the three All-India
Boards to receive the Higher Secondary School Certificate or equivalent. The certificate
allows an individual to seek employment or admission into universities. Based on the above
information and placement recommendations of other evaluation resources, IQAS compares
the Higher Secondary School Certificate or equivalent from the Republic of India to the
completion of a High School Diploma.*
* The comparison also applies to some earlier higher secondary school certificates that
represented 11 years of schooling. This is based on the following factors:
– Such certificates were exit credentials representing the completion of higher secondary
school;
– Such certificates gave access to university programs;
– When a state switched from the 11-year to the 12-year system, students who graduated
from the 11-year system were eligible for admission into university programs without
additional upgrading;
– Students from a state with the 11-year system were eligible for admission, without
additional upgrading, into university programs in another state that had the 12-year system.
Grading:
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) puts all the candidates who passed the
Class 10 or Class 12 examination in a ranking order to award the grades. The top 0.1% of
candidates will receive Merit Certificates. The minimum pass mark for each subject is 33%.
The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) adopts a nine-point scale.
Grades 1-6 indicate “pass with credit”, with 1-2 as “very good”. Grades 7-8 indicate “pass”,
and grade 9 “failure”. The minimum pass mark for each subject is 40%.
For more information on Indian grading scales, please refer to the chapter Grading Scale in
International Education Guide for the Assessment of Education from the Republic of India.
Category: University
Admission Requirements:
•Certificates/diplomas: Higher Secondary School Certificate or equivalent (usually
representing 12 years of schooling)
•Post diplomas: Completion of a university-level diploma
Program Description:
•University certificate/diploma program [usually one year, though length varies from six
months to three years]
•Further education
Advanced standing or credit transfer may be awarded for admission into undergraduate
programs.
IQAS Recommendations:
A university-level Certificate or Diploma generally compares to the completion of a
postsecondary Certificate/Diploma with a focus in xxx.
IQAS Rationale:
Many certificate/diploma courses are vocational in nature and do not give access to further
education. However, in some cases, certificate/diploma holders may be admitted into a
bachelor’s degree program with advanced standing.
Other than universities, a lot of institutions also offer certificate/diploma programs. For
example, three-year diplomas in a range of engineering and technological fields, with entry
usually based on the completion of secondary school, are available at polytechnics. Certificate
and diploma courses in nursing and midwifery are mostly offered at institutions attached to
hospitals. Please refer to other credential templates for more information.
Conclusion
Certificate/diploma programs involve six months to three years of fulltime study, with entry
usually based on the completion of higher secondary school. The certificate/diploma allows an
individual to seek employment and, in some cases, admission into a bachelor’s degree program
with advanced standing. Based on the above information and placement recommendations of
other evaluation resources, IQAS compares the university-issued certificate/diploma from the
Republic of India to the completion of a postsecondary Certificate/Diploma with a focus in
xxx (or assessed individually, depending on admission requirements, fulltime duration of study
and general content of the program).
Grading:
Most bachelor’s and master’s degrees are classified into divisions or classes based on the
marks students obtain in the major examinations at the end of each year or semester. Other
programs such as certificates, diplomas and research-based degrees (M.Phil and Ph.D) are
usually awarded without classification. Grading scale varies from institution to institution. The
Indian system is low marking, with minimum pass mark generally ranging between 33 and
40%, though some institutions or programs adopt a 50% pass. Students who have failed in one
or more subjects in a major examination but who have achieved institution-designated
minimum marks (e.g. 25%) in the aggregate may be allowed to proceed with their study and
make up the failed subjects at a subsequent examination. The following table shows a common
grading scale along with conversion to Alberta grades.
For more information on Indian grading scales, please refer to the chapter Grading Scale in
International Education Guide for the Assessment of Education from the Republic of India.
Category: Technical/Professional/Vocational
Admission Requirements:
•[Diploma in Engineering (in most states)/Pharmacy (pre-1994)]: Secondary School
Certificate or equivalent (10 years of schooling)
•[Diploma in Engineering (in a few states)/Hotel Management (and Catering
Technology)/Management/Medical laboratory Technology/Modern Office Practice/Pharmacy
(1994-)]: Higher Secondary School Certificate or equivalent (12 years of schooling)
Program Description:
Three-year (or two-year, etc.) diploma program
•Further education
Advanced standing or credit transfer may be awarded for admission into undergraduate
programs.
IQAS Recommendations:
A Diploma (at least 3 years duration) requiring 10 years of secondary school for admission
generally compares to the completion of postsecondary Certificate.
A Diploma (2 years or less duration) requiring 10 years of secondary school for admission
generally compares to the completion of a High School Diploma including xx years of
vocational training in xxx.
[Note: Engineering technology diplomas should be awarded by the State Boards of Technical
Education.]
A Diploma in Pharmacy (D. Pharm.) [awarded in or after 1994] generally compares to the
completion of a postsecondary Pharmacy Technician Diploma.
Certificates
Certificates are assessed individually, depending on admission requirements, fulltime duration
of study and general content of the program.
IQAS Rationale:
Program Description
Technical education at the sub-degree level, mainly conducted by polytechnics, includes
diploma/certificate programs in a wide range of fields under the purview of the AICTE, such
as engineering and technology, architecture, computer applications, applied arts and craft, and
pharmacy. The AICTE provides a broad framework of norms and standards for polytechnic
education regarding program structure, facilities, human and financial resources, etc. However,
program structure and entry requirements may vary from state to state.
Diploma courses generally last two to three years, with entry based on the completion of
Secondary School (Class 10) or Higher Secondary School (Class 12). They aim to train
supervised technicians and other middle level technical personnel for a range of professional
duties. Successful completion of the programs leads to a diploma awarded by the State
Board/Council of Technical Education. Certificate courses are one year, six months, or even
shorter in duration. Following is a description of some of the common diploma programs.
The diploma in engineering and technology generally involves three years of fulltime study,
with entry based on the completion of Class 10. Examples of exceptions: Rajasthan requires
Holders of the diploma in engineering and technology may seek employment, e.g. by
undertaking a one-year “technician apprentice” training through the Apprenticeship Training
Scheme. They can also pursue further education at universities or through professional
associations such as the Institution of Engineers India (IEI). Some universities allow them
lateral entry into the second year/third semester of a Bachelor of Engineering (BE/B.Engg.) or
Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) program in the same field.
The Diploma in Hotel Management and Catering Technology involves three years of
fulltime study following the completion of Class 12. The program is available at some
polytechnics and 24 affiliated institutions of the National Council for Hotel Management and
Catering Technology.
The Diploma in Modern Office Practice involves three years of fulltime study, including six
months of industrial training, following the completion of Class 12.
Conclusion
Technical-professional diploma programs generally involve two to three years of fulltime
study, with entry based on the completion of Class 10 or Class 12. They provide access to
employment and, in some cases, advanced standing for admission into undergraduate
programs. In Canada, postsecondary certificate and diploma programs require Grade 12 for
admission, with diploma programs generally involving at least two years of fulltime study and
certificate programs less than two years; they provide access to employment and possible
transfer of credit for admission into undergraduate programs. Based on the above information
Diplomas
A Diploma (2-3 years duration) requiring 10+2 for admission generally compares to the
completion of a postsecondary Diploma.
A Diploma (at least 3 years duration) requiring 10 years of secondary school for admission
generally compares to the completion of postsecondary Certificate.
A Diploma (2 years or less duration) requiring 10 years of secondary school for admission
generally compares to the completion of a High School Diploma including xx years of
vocational training in xxx.
[Note: Engineering technology diplomas should be awarded by the State Boards of Technical
Education.]
A Diploma in Pharmacy (D. Pharm.) [awarded in or after 1994] generally compares to the
completion of a postsecondary Pharmacy Technician Diploma.
Certificates
Certificates are assessed individually, depending on admission requirements, fulltime duration
of study and general content of the program.
Grading:
Most bachelor’s and master’s degrees are classified into divisions or classes based on the
marks students obtain in the major examinations at the end of each year or semester. Other
programs such as certificates, diplomas and research-based degrees (M.Phil and Ph.D) are
usually awarded without classification. Grading scale varies from institution to institution. The
Indian system is low marking, with minimum pass mark generally ranging between 33 and
40%, though some institutions or programs adopt a 50% pass. Students who have failed in one
or more subjects in a major examination but who have achieved institution-designated
minimum marks (e.g. 25%) in the aggregate may be allowed to proceed with their study and
make up the failed subjects at a subsequent examination. The following table shows a common
grading scale along with conversion to Alberta grades.
For more information on Indian grading scales, please refer to the chapter Grading Scale in
International Education Guide for the Assessment of Education from the Republic of India.
Category: University
Admission Requirements:
•Higher Secondary School Certificate or equivalent (usually representing 12 years of
schooling)
Program Description:
• Three-year undergraduate degree program
IQAS Recommendations:
Generally compares to the completion of a three-year Bachelor’s degree.
IQAS Rationale:
Program Description
From independence in 1947 to the early 1970s, undergraduate education in most states
represented a total of 14 years of schooling. Until 1960, a bachelor’s degree usually involved
two years of fulltime study following 10 years of schooling and two years of intermediate
study. From then on to the early 1970s, most states adopted the 10+1+3 system, with 11 years
of schooling (10 years of school education plus one year of higher secondary or pre-university
study) followed by a three-year bachelor’s degree.
The most common three-year bachelor’s degrees are the Bachelors of Arts (BA), Bachelor of
Science (B.Sc.) and Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com). The courses are usually listed as
“papers”, for which the students must attend a number of lecture hours per week and pass the
annual examinations. The BA, B.Sc. and B.Com are usually offered as pass or general degrees,
though some universities offer honours or special bachelor degrees. Honours or special
programs do not involve a longer duration of study but have more academic depth and tend to
attract high performing students. They are either similar to the pass degree with a few
additional papers, or designed as a separate course that emphasizes specialization in the chosen
subject.
Annual examinations are usually conducted by universities at the end of the academic year,
between March and May. Internal assessment by the colleges accounts for a small percentage
of the total marks. Minimum pass mark is normally 33-35%. Students who have failed some
papers in a given year but who have achieved a minimum mark designated by the university
(e.g. 25% in the aggregate) may be allowed to proceed to the next year of study but must make
up the failed papers in the following annual examination.
One can study for a bachelor’s degree on a part-time basis or externally through distance
learning programs, and sit the annual examinations as an external or private candidate.
Universities usually prescribe a time limit (e.g. seven years) in which students must complete
all coursework and pass the examinations to qualify for the award of the degree. After
completing a bachelor’s degree, students may pursue further education in master’s degree,
postgraduate bachelor’s degree (e.g. Bachelor of Education), or postgraduate certificate or
diploma programs.
In addition to the BA, B.Sc. and B.Com, several other bachelor’s degrees also involve three
years of fulltime study. Examples include Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA),
Bachelor of Business Management (BBM), Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA), and
Bachelor of Physical Education (BPE).
After completing a bachelor’s degree programs, students receive degree certificates and marks
sheets (also known as marks card, marks certificate, statement of marks, etc.). Format of the
documents may vary depending on the issuing body and time period. Documents are usually
issued in English, English and Hindi, or English and a regional language (e.g. Bengali,
Punjabi, Tamil, etc.). Universities issue the degrees, regardless of whether the program is
conducted by a university department or an affiliated college. If the program is conducted by
an autonomous college, the name of the college also appears on the degree certificate. Marks
Conclusion
The three-year bachelor’s degree (BA, B.Com or B.Sc.) requires a Higher Secondary School
Certificate or equivalent (generally representing 12 years of schooling) for admission. The
degree allows an individual to seek employment or admission into master’s degree,
postgraduate bachelor’s degree, postgraduate diploma, and professional programs. Based on
the above information and placement recommendations of other evaluation resources, IQAS
compares the three-year Bachelor’s degree from the Republic of India to the completion of a
three-year Bachelor’s degree.
Grading:
Most bachelor’s and master’s degrees are classified into divisions or classes based on the
marks students obtain in the major examinations at the end of each year or semester. Grading
scale varies from institution to institution. The Indian system is low marking, with minimum
pass mark generally ranging between 33 and 40%, though some institutions or programs adopt
a 50% pass. Students who have failed in one or more subjects in a major examination but who
have achieved institution-designated minimum marks (e.g. 25%) in the aggregate may be
allowed to proceed with their study and make up the failed subjects at a subsequent
examination. The following table shows a common grading scale along with conversion to
Alberta grades.
For more information on Indian grading scales, please refer to the chapter Grading Scale in
International Education Guide for the Assessment of Education from the Republic of India.
Category: University
Admission Requirements:
•Higher Secondary School Certificate or equivalent such as Pre-University Examination, etc.
(usually representing 12 years of schooling) with required courses (e.g. Math, Physics,
Chemistry for programs in engineering and technology)
Program Description:
• Four-year undergraduate degree program
• Admission into university graduate programs, postgraduate bachelor’s degree and diploma
programs
IQAS Recommendations:
Generally compares to the completion of a four-year Bachelor degree with a focus in xxx.
IQAS Rationale:
Program Description
The 10+2+3 system, first introduced in the 1970s, has been implemented in most of the
country since the late 1980s. This represents 10 years of elementary and secondary education +
2 years of higher/senior secondary education + 3 years of undergraduate education (general
bachelor’s degree).
Agriculture
Bachelor’s and graduate degree programs in agriculture are available at over 100 institutions,
including non-agricultural institutions and 45 central and state agricultural universities and
agricultural research institutes (deemed universities). The US has played an important role in
helping India establish a system of agricultural universities, which tend to show strong
American influence such as adoption of the credit system. Agricultural universities are mostly
non-affiliating.
Conclusion
The four-year bachelor’s degree, offered in specialized and professional fields, requires a
Higher Secondary School Certificate or equivalent (generally representing 12 years of
schooling) with relevant subjects for admission. The degree allows an individual to seek
employment or admission into professional master’s degree, after degree, and postgraduate
diploma programs. Based on the above information and placement recommendations of other
evaluation resources, IQAS compares the four-year Bachelor’s degree to the completion of a
four-year Bachelor degree.
Grading:
Most bachelor’s and master’s degrees are classified into divisions or classes based on the
marks students obtain in the major examinations at the end of each year or semester. Grading
scale varies from institution to institution. The Indian system is low marking, with minimum
pass mark generally ranging between 33 and 40%, though some institutions or programs adopt
a 50% pass. Students who have failed in one or more subjects in a major examination but who
have achieved institution-designated minimum marks (e.g. 25%) in the aggregate may be
allowed to proceed with their study and make up the failed subjects at a subsequent
examination. The following table shows a common grading scale along with conversion to
Alberta grades.
For more information on Indian grading scales, please refer to the chapter Grading Scale in
International Education Guide for the Assessment of Education from the Republic of India.
Background
The National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE), which became a statutory body in 1993,
is responsible for formulating regulations and norms for teacher education and recognizing
teacher education institutions. It prescribes minimum educational qualifications for school
teachers at different levels. Since 2010, teaching appointment has also required passing the
Teacher Eligibility Test (TET).
B.Ed programs were offered at universities and five Regional Institutes of Education (RIEs),
which are university-affiliated.
The B.Ed was usually earned as a one-year postgraduate bachelor’s degree, with entry based
on the completion of a first bachelor’s degree (e.g. BA, B.Sc. or B.Com). One could also
obtain a B.Ed after completing the first year of a two-year integrated Master of Education
(M.Ed) program.
According to NCTE regulations, the postgraduate B.Ed in Secondary Education involved one
year of fulltime study, including 150 days of instruction plus at least 30 days of teaching
practice and internship, following the completion of a bachelor’s or master’s degree with at
least 45% marks. Where the postgraduate B.Ed was offered through correspondence or other
distance-learning mode, the length of study was usually two years.
The International Education Guide for India has a sample program structure for the one-year
B.Ed.
Institutions offered the same B.Ed program for training secondary and higher secondary
teachers. In the Curriculum Framework for Teacher Education (2006), NCTE proposed
separate curricula for secondary teacher education and higher secondary teacher education,
further divided into the academic and vocational streams, and envisaged increasing the
duration of the postgraduate B.Ed. program from one year to two years of fulltime study.
The new B.Ed involves two years of fulltime study and can be completed in a maximum of
three years. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree with at least 50%
marks, or a professional bachelor’s degree in engineering or technology with at least 55%
marks. Each year has a minimum of 200 working days, not including admission and
examination. Students must maintain a minimum 80% attendance for coursework and 90%
attendance for school internship.
The program structure for the B.Ed (2 years) prescribed by NCTE consists of three curricular
areas: perspectives in education, curriculum and pedagogic studies, and engagement with the
field. The third curricular area, engagement with the field, has three components:
B.Ed (4 years)
There are two types of four-year education degrees: Bachelor of Elementary Education
(B.El.Ed) and integrated BA B.Ed and B.Sc. B.Ed degrees.
According to NCTE regulations, the M.Ed program involved one year of fulltime study
following the completion of the B.Ed with at least 55% marks. There shall be at least 180
working days, including internship and four weeks of field visit for dissertation. Only
university departments and institutions offering B.Ed programs are eligible to run the M.Ed
program. Two-year part-time M.Ed programs for in-service teachers and educational
administrators with at least two years of related work experience were also offered by some
university departments and Institutes of Advanced Studies in Education (IASEs), which are
university-affiliated.
The International Education Guide for India has a sample program structure for the one-year
M.Ed.
Admission to the M.Ed is based on a variety of teacher education qualifications, for example:
• One-year or two-year B.Ed
• Four-year integrated teacher education degree (e.g. B.El.Ed, B.Sc. Ed or BA Ed)
• Diploma in Elementary Education/Diploma in Education plus a Bachelor’s degree (e.g.
BA, B.Sc. or B.Com)
Applicants must also have some teaching experience and pass an entrance examination.
According to NCTE curriculum standards, the two-year M.Ed adopts UGC’s Choice-Based
Credit System (CBCS), comprising 80 credits in total, with 60% of the credits devoted to core
courses and 40% to specialized courses and dissertation. Each year has two semesters of 16-18
weeks each plus 3 weeks of internship, totaling at least 200 working days.
Students who have a “postgraduate degree”, i.e. a postgraduate bachelor’s degree or master’s
degree, have the option to do a three-year B.Ed M.Ed integrated degree.
Conclusion
The one-year B.Ed, with entry based on the completion of a first bachelor’s degree (e.g. BA,
B.Sc. or BCom), and the four-year B.Ed, with entry based on the completion of higher
secondary school, represent at least four years of university study following the completion of
school education (12 years). The B.Ed allows an individual to teach at secondary schools and
is also a prerequisite for teaching at higher secondary schools. It gives access to further
education in M.Ed (1 year or 2 years) programs.
The two-year B.Ed, with entry based on the completion of a first bachelor’s degree (e.g. BA,
B.Sc. or B.Com), represents two years of university study in teacher education. It allows an
Based on the above information, IQAS compares the B.Ed (2 years) to the completion of a
two-year Bachelor of Education after-degree.
The one-year M.Ed, with entry based on the completion of a B.Ed, and the two-year integrated
M.Ed, with entry based on the completion of a first bachelor’s degree, represent at least five
years of university study, including at least two years in teacher education. An individual must
have a one-year M.Ed, or a B.Ed plus a master’s degree (e.g. MA, M.Com or M.Sc.), in order
to teach at higher secondary schools. A one-year M.Ed and two-year integrated M.Ed give
access to further education in doctoral programs.
The two-year M.Ed represents two years of professional study designed for teacher educators.
Admission is based on a minimum of four years of postsecondary study, including at least one
year in teacher education. The two-year M.Ed gives access to further education in doctoral
programs.
Based on the above information, IQAS compares the two-year M.Ed to the completion of a
Master’s degree with a focus in education.
Grading:
Most bachelor’s and master’s degrees are classified into divisions or classes based on the
marks students obtain in the major examinations at the end of each year or semester. Grading
scale varies from institution to institution. The Indian system is low marking, with minimum
pass mark generally ranging between 33 and 40%, though some institutions or programs adopt
a 50% pass. Students who have failed in one or more subjects in a major examination but who
have achieved institution-designated minimum marks (e.g. 25%) in the aggregate may be
allowed to proceed with their study and make up the failed subjects at a subsequent
examination. The following table shows a common grading scale along with conversion to
Alberta grades.
For more information on Indian grading scales, please refer to the chapter Grading Scale in
International Education Guide for the Assessment of Education from the Republic of India.
Category: University
Admission Requirements:
1. Higher Secondary School Certificate or equivalent (usually representing 12 years of
schooling) with required courses (Physics, Chemistry and Biology), or Pre-Professional
Certificate
2. Entrance examinations
Program Description:
• MBBS: Five-and-one-half-year professional university degree program, including a one-year
clinical internship
•BAMS: Five-and-one-half-year professional university degree program, including a six-
month/one-year clinical internship
• BHMS: Five-and-one-half-year professional university degree program, including a one-year
clinical internship
•BDS: Five-year professional university degree program, including a one-year clinical
internship
•B.V.Sc. & A.H.: Five-year professional university degree program, including a six-month
clinical internship
B.V.Sc. & A.H.: Generally compares to the completion of a first professional university
degree in veterinary medicine.
IQAS Rationale:
Program Description
The Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS or BMBS) programs last five and a half
years, including a one-year internship. Applicants must pass the higher secondary certificate
examination with Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English as required subjects. Those lacking
the required subjects may attend a one-year pre-medical course provided by a medical or science
college. Applicants must also sit a separate pre-medical examination, such as the All-India Pre-
Medical/Pre-Dental Entrance Examination (AIPMT), conducted by CBSE (Central Board of
Secondary Education) for admission into MBBS or BDS courses at central and state medical
and dental colleges except in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.
The Medical Council of India prescribes the structure and time allocation for medical courses.
MBBS coursework lasts four and a half years or nine semesters, divided into three phases. The
first phase (1st to 2nd semesters) consists of pre-clinical subjects such as anatomy, physiology,
and biochemistry. The second phase (3rd to 5th semesters) consists of para-clinical subjects
such as pathology, pharmacology and microbiology, and clinical subjects. The third phase (6th
to 9th semesters) is the continuation of clinical subjects, including medicine and its allied
specialties, surgery and its allied specialties, obstetrics, gynaecology and community medicine.
A total of three examinations are held: 1st professional examination (2nd semester), 2nd
professional examination (5th semester), 3rd professional examination part I (7th semester), and
3rd professional examination part II (9th semester). After passing the last part of the
professional examination, students must undergo a 12-month compulsory rotational internship
to be eligible for the award of the MBBS degree and full registration with the medical council
to practice professionally. In order to become a specialist or medical teacher, one must pursue
further study in postgraduate medical programs.
Postgraduate diplomas in medicine approved by the Indian Medical Council involve two years
of fulltime study following the completion of a Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery
(MBBS or BMBS). Students can choose from 28 fields of specialization such as clinical
The Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) and Master of Surgery (M.S.) both involve three years of
fulltime study following the completion of a Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery
(MBBS or BMBS). Holders of a postgraduate diploma in medicine in the same area of
specialization receive one year’s advanced standing. Students enrolled in the M.D. program
can choose from 29 fields of specialization such as geriatrics, pathology, paediatrics, and radio
therapy. Students enrolled in the M.S. program can choose from five fields of specialization
including otorhinolaryngology, general surgery, ophthalmology, orthopaedics, and obstetrics
& gynaecology.
The Doctor of Medicine (D.M.) program involves three years of fulltime study following the
completion of an M.D. Students can choose from 12 fields of specialization such as
cardiology, immunology, medical oncology and neurology. The Master of Chirurgie (M.Ch.)
program involves three years of fulltime study following the completion of an M.S. (or an
M.D. in some cases). Students can choose from ten fields of specialization such as
cardiovascular and thoracic surgery, urology, neurosurgery, and surgical oncology.
The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) involves five years of fulltime study, including a one-
year internship. Individuals with an MBBS may be able to complete the program in three
years. The Dental Council of India prescribes the curriculum structure, syllabi, and
examination scheme for the BDS program. Students take a professional examination at the end
of each of the first four years. These are known as the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and final BDS examinations.
After passing the final BDS examination, students must undergo a one-year rotating
internship. The BDS degree entitles an individual to work in general dental practice.
Postgraduate study is required for specialization.
There are extensive programs for teaching the Indian systems of medicine (Ayurveda, Siddha,
and Unani Tibb) at both undergraduate and graduate levels. The Central Council of Indian
Medicine advises the central government on matters relating to the recognition of such
programs and prescribes the curricula and syllabi. Many institutions offer the
“Ayurvedacharya”, or Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) degree, which
involves five and a half years of fulltime study, including a clinical internship of 6 or 12
months. BAMS holders may have their names entered in the Central Register of Indian
Medicine and are entitled to practice Indian medicine in any part of India according to their
qualifications.
The Bachelor of Homoeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS) is the minimum educational
qualification to become a homeopathic doctor. The Central Council of Homoeopathy (CCH)
(www.cchindia.com), a statutory body established under the Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and
Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH), prescribes minimum standards of
education for homoeopathy and registers homeopathic medical practitioners.
The BHMS involves five and a half years of fulltime study, including a one-year internship.
Entry is based on the completion of higher secondary school or equivalent with Physics,
The Bachelor of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry (B.V.Sc. & A.H.) is the minimum
educational qualification to become a veterinary doctor. The Veterinary Council of India
(VCI), a statutory body established under the Ministry of Agriculture, prescribes the program
structure and syllabus for the B.V.Sc. & A.H. The program involves five years of fulltime
study, including a six-month internship, with a total of 188 credits. Earlier programs may have
been four and a half years. Entry is based on the completion of higher secondary school or
equivalent with Physics, Chemistry and Biology. After completing both coursework and
internship, students are eligible for the award of the B.V.Sc. & A.H. degree and full
registration with the VCI or state veterinary council to practice as a veterinary doctor.
Postgraduate programs such as the two-year Master of Veterinary Science (M.V.Sc.) provide
options of specialization.
Conclusion
Admission into the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS/BMBS), Bachelor
of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS), Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and
Surgery (BHMS), Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) and Bachelor of Veterinary Science and
Animal Husbandry (B.V.Sc. & A.H.) programs requires Higher Secondary School Certificate
or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry and Biology, plus entrance examinations. The length of
the programs is five or five and a half years, including a clinical internship. The degrees allow
individuals to enter professional practice in medicine/ Indian medicine/homeopathic
medicine/dentistry/veterinary medicine. Based on the above information and placement
recommendations of other evaluation resources, IQAS compares the MBBS/BMBS, BDS and
B.V.Sc. & A.H. to the completion of a first professional university degree in
medicine/dentistry/veterinary medicine. The BAMS is compared to the completion of a
Bachelor’s degree with a focus in Ayurvedic medicine. The BHMS is compared to the
completion of a Bachelor’s degree with a focus in homoeopathic medicine.
Grading:
Most bachelor’s and master’s degrees are classified into divisions or classes based on the
marks students obtain in the major examinations at the end of each year or semester. Grading
scale varies from institution to institution. The Indian system is low marking, with minimum
pass mark generally ranging between 33 and 40%, though some institutions or programs adopt
a 50% pass. Students who have failed in one or more subjects in a major examination but who
have achieved institution-designated minimum marks (e.g. 25%) in the aggregate may be
allowed to proceed with their study and make up the failed subjects at a subsequent
examination. The following table shows a common grading scale along with conversion to
Alberta grades.
For more information on Indian grading scales, please refer to the chapter Grading Scale in
International Education Guide for the Assessment of Education from the Republic of India.
Category: University
Admission Requirements:
• LLB (Special/Professional) and LLB (General/Academic): Completion of a first bachelor’s
degree (e.g. BA, B.Com or B.Sc.)
• LLB (integrated program): Completion of higher secondary school (generally representing
12 years of schooling)
Program Description:
•Employment
An LLB (Special/Professional or integrated program) holder may apply to the Bar Council of
India to practice law as an Advocate.
An LLB (General/Academic) holder may work in an allied legal profession.
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IQAS Recommendations:
LLB (Special/Professional): Generally compares to the completion of a first professional
university degree in law.
IQAS Rationale:
The Bar Council of India (BCI) maintains a list of approved law colleges that provide law
education in the form of either the newer five-year integrated program or the traditional three-
year postgraduate bachelor’s degree, or both.
The postgraduate Bachelor of Law or Bachelor of Laws (LLB/BL) involves three years of
fulltime study after a first bachelor’s degree. According to BCI rules, a three-year LLB
(Special/Professional) program must include the following:
I. 21 Compulsory Courses
1. Jurisprudence
2. Contract-I(General Principle of Contract-Section 1-75 and Specific Relief)
3. Contract-II (Indian Contract Act, Indian Partnership Act, Sale of Goods Act and other
Specific contracts)
4. Tort and Consumer Protection Laws
5. Family Law-I
6. Family Law-II
7. Law of Crimes
8. Criminal Procedure Code, Juvenile Justice Act and Probation of Offenders Act.
9. Constitutional Law
10. Property Law including Transfer of Property Act and Easement Act
11. Law of Evidence
12. Civil Procedure Code and Limitation Act
13. Legal Language/Legal Writing including General English
14. Administrative Law
15. Company Law
16. Human Rights and International Law
17. Arbitration, Conciliation and Alternate Dispute Resolution Systems
18. Environmental Law including laws for the protection of the wild life and other living
creatures including animal welfare
19. Labour Law.
20. Interpretation of Statutes
21. Land Laws including ceiling and any other local laws
After completing the three-year LLB, students may apply to the Bar Council of India to
practice law as Advocates. They may also seek admission into two-year Master of Law(s)
(LLM) programs.
Some universities offer a two-year LLB (General/Academic), which does not give access to
professional practice or admission into two-year LLM programs; graduates may seek
employment in the allied legal professions. Students enrolled in a three-year LLB may choose
to exit the program after two years with an LLB (General/Academic).
The Bachelor of Law or Bachelor of Laws (LLB/BL) integrated program lasts five years,
including two years of pre-law study (part I) followed by three years of professional training in
law (part II). Applicants who have already completed a first bachelor’s degree (e.g. BA, B.Sc.
or B.Com) may be admitted into part II of the five-year integrated program. According to BCI
rules, part II of the program is identical to the three-year LLB; part I should include the
following 6 compulsory subjects:
1. General English - 2 Papers (Part I and Part II)
2. Political Science - 3 Papers (Part I , Part II and Part III)
3. Economics - 1 Paper
4. Sociology - 1 Paper
5. History - 1 Paper
6. History of Courts, Legislature and Legal Profession in India - 1 Paper
According to BCI rules, students who have completed part I of the five-year integrated
program are eligible to enrol in the final year of a three-year Bachelor’s degree (e.g. BA,
B.Com or B.Sc.), and those who have completed the first three years of the five-year
integrated program may receive a degree such as BA (Law) by passing the relevant university
examinations. This enables some law colleges to offer combined integrated degrees such as a
combined Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Law(s) (BA & LLB/BL), a combined Bachelor of
Business Administration and Bachelor of Law(s) (BBA & LLB/BL), or a combined Bachelor
of Science and Bachelor of Law(s) (B.Sc. & LLB/BL).
Conclusion
The LLB (Special/Professional) involves three years of professional studies in law, with entry
based on a first bachelor’s degree (e.g. BA, B.Com or B.Sc.). This is similar in structure to
LLB programs in Canada, which generally require at least two or three years of university
study (though most applicants already hold a bachelor’s degree), followed by three years of
professional studies in law. An LLB (Special/Professional) holder may apply to the Bar
Council of India to practice law as Advocates and may also seek admission into two-year
Master of Law(s) (LLM) programs. Based on the above information and placement
recommendations of other evaluation resources, IQAS compares the LLB
(Special/Professional) to the completion of a first professional university degree in law (as
practiced in the Republic of India).
The LLB (integrated program) involves three years of professional studies in law, preceded by
two years of prerequisite university study. An LLB (integrated program) holder may apply to
the Bar Council of India to practice law as Advocates and may also seek admission into two-
year Master of Law(s) (LLM) programs. Based on the above information and placement
recommendations of other evaluation resources, IQAS compares the LLB (integrated program)
to the completion of a first professional university degree in law (as practiced in the Republic
of India), preceded by two years of prerequisite university study.
The LLB (General/Academic) involves two years of professional studies in law, with entry
based on a first bachelor’s degree (e.g. BA, B.Com or B.Sc.). An LLB (General/Academic)
holder may work in an allied legal profession but cannot practice professionally as a lawyer or
seek admission into two-year LLM programs. Based on the above information and placement
recommendations of other evaluation resources, IQAS compares the LLB (General/Academic)
to the completion of a two-year Bachelor’s after-degree with a focus in law (as practiced in the
Republic of India).
Grading:
Most bachelor’s and master’s degrees are classified into divisions or classes based on the
marks students obtain in the major examinations at the end of each year or semester. Grading
scale varies from institution to institution. The Indian system is low marking, with minimum
pass mark generally ranging between 33 and 40%, though some institutions or programs adopt
For more information on Indian grading scales, please refer to the chapter Grading Scale in
International Education Guide for the Assessment of Education from the Republic of India.
Category: University
Admission Requirements:
•Three-year bachelor’s degree (e.g. BA, B.Com or B.Sc.)
Program Description:
• Two-year university graduate degree program
IQAS Recommendations:
A Master’s degree (following the completion of a three-year Bachelor’s degree) generally
compares to the completion of a one-year Master’s degree with a focus in xxx.
Note: The first-year study of a two-year Master’s degree (following the completion of a three-
year Bachelor’s degree) is considered to be at an undergraduate level.
IQAS Rationale:
Program Description
Master’s degrees in Arts, Commerce and Science (MA, M.Com, and M.Sc.) involve two years
of fulltime study, with entry based on the completion of a three-year bachelor’s degree, usually
in the same field (BA, B.Com, or B.Sc.). The area of specialization is often noted for MA and
M.Sc. degrees, such as MA (English), MA (Linguistics), M.Sc. (Computer Science), and
M.Sc. (Electronics). Universities may set minimum marks for admission, e.g. 50% in the
MA, M.Com and M.Sc. programs usually consist of coursework only, with no thesis
requirement. Examinations are held at the end of each year, generally known as Previous/Part I
(at the end of the first year) and Final/Part II (at the end of second year). Students may be
allowed to reappear in the examinations in one or more courses either to make up for failed
subjects or for the improvement of marks.
One can study for a master’s degree on a part-time basis or externally through distance
learning programs. Universities usually prescribe a time limit (e.g. four years) in which
students must complete all coursework and pass the examinations to qualify for the award of
the degree.
In recent years five-year integrated master’s degrees, sometimes called bachelor and master
dual degree programs, are available in a variety of disciplines such as MA, M.Com, M.Sc. and
M.Tech. Entry is based on the completion of higher secondary education (Class 12). Students
may have the option to exit the program with a bachelor’s degree after three years.
The MA, M.Com or M.Sc. degree allows an individual to apply for admission into Master of
Philosophy (M.Phil) programs. While some doctoral programs require an M.Phil for
admission, others admit MA, M.Com or M.Sc. degree holders.
Conclusion
The two-year master’s degree (MA, M.Com or M.Sc.) requires a three-year bachelor’s degree
(e. g. BA, B.Com or B.Sc.) for admission, representing a total of five years of postsecondary
education in the current structure. In Canada, a four-year bachelor’s degree, or a three-year
bachelor’s degree plus at least one year of additional university study, is required for
admission into a master’s degree program, which involves one to two years of fulltime study.
The MA, M.Com or M.Sc. degree allows an individual to seek employment or admission into
M.Phil and doctoral programs. Based on the above information and placement
recommendations of other evaluation resources, IQAS compares the two-year master’s degree
from the Republic of India, in combination with the previous three-year bachelor’s degree, to
the completion of a four-year Bachelor’s degree and a one-year Master’s degree.
Grading:
Most bachelor’s and master’s degrees are classified into divisions or classes based on the
marks students obtain in the major examinations at the end of each year or semester. Grading
scale varies from institution to institution. The Indian system is low marking, with minimum
pass mark generally ranging between 33 and 40%, though some institutions or programs adopt
a 50% pass. Students who have failed in one or more subjects in a major examination but who
have achieved institution-designated minimum marks (e.g. 25%) in the aggregate may be
allowed to proceed with their study and make up the failed subjects at a subsequent
examination. The following table shows a common grading scale along with conversion to
Alberta grades.
For more information on Indian grading scales, please refer to the chapter Grading Scale in
International Education Guide for the Assessment of Education from the Republic of India.
Category: University
Admission Requirements:
•Four-year bachelor’s degree in same or related field (e.g. Bachelor of Engineering, Bachelor of
Technology, Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Bachelor of Agriculture, Bachelor of Science in
Agriculture, Bachelor of Pharmacy, etc.), or
•Master’s degree in a related field (e.g. Master of Science degree following the completion of a
three-year Bachelor of Science degree), or
•Three-year bachelor’s degree in the same or related field (e.g. BCA)
Program Description:
• Two-year (or one-and-a-half-year) university graduate degree program, or
• Three-year university graduate degree program
IQAS Rationale:
Program Description
Master’s degrees in a range of specialized and professional fields such as engineering,
technology, agriculture, and pharmacy involve one and a half or two years of fulltime study.
Entry is usually based on the completion of a four-year bachelor’s degree in the same or a related
field; alternatively, some eligible applicants hold a Master of Science degree following the
completion of a three-year bachelor’s degree. Universities set minimum marks for admission, e.g.
60% in the aggregate on the Indian scale from a four-year bachelor’s degree, and require
applicants to write an entrance examination. The master’s degree (4+1.5/2) allows an individual
to apply for admission into Master of Philosophy (M.Phil) and doctoral programs in the same or
related field of study.
The area of specialization may be noted in the name of the degree, e.g. Master of Engineering in
Civil Engineering, Master of Engineering in Computer Technology and Applications, Master of
Technology in Computer Science and Engineering, and Master of Agriculture in Soil Science.
Following is a description of some of the master’s degree (4+1.5/2) programs.
The Master of Engineering (ME or M.Engg.), Master of Technology (M.Tech.) and Master
of Science in Engineering (M.Sc. Engg.) involve one and a half or two years of fulltime study,
or up to four years of part-time study. Entry is based on the completion of a BE/B.Tech. or M.Sc.
in the same or a related field. Examinations are conducted at the end of each semester. In addition
to coursework, students have to complete a major research project. Following is a sample
program structure for the Master of Technology (M.Tech.):
Master’s degrees in agriculture such as Master of Agriculture (M.Agri.) and Master of Science
in Agriculture (M.Sc.Agri.) involve two years of fulltime study following a bachelor’s degree in
agriculture. Agricultural programs in India generally adopt the American-style credit system. The
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) prescribes a minimum of 35 credits of
coursework and 15 credits of thesis for Master’s degrees in agriculture.
The Master of Pharmacy (M.Pharm.) involves two years of fulltime study consisting of both
coursework and the completion and defence of a thesis. Entry is based on a four-year Bachelor of
Pharmacy (B.Pharm.) with minimum marks (e.g. 50%) and an entrance examination. The
M.Pharm. offers various specializations, such as pharmaceutics, pharmacognosy, pharmacology,
pharmaceutical chemistry, etc.
Conclusion
The Master’s degree (4+1.5/2) requires a four-year bachelor’s degree or M.Sc. in the same or a
related field for admission. In Canada, a master’s degree program involves one to two years of
fulltime study, with entry based on a four-year bachelor’s degree, or a three-year bachelor’s
degree plus at least one year of additional university study. The Master’s degree (4+1.5/2) allows
an individual to seek employment or admission into M.Phil and doctoral programs. Based on the
above information and placement recommendations of other evaluation resources, IQAS
compares the master’s degree (4+1.5/2) to the completion of a Master’s degree with a focus in
xxx.
Grading:
Agricultural universities generally adopt the 10-point system prescribed by the Indian Council of
Agricultural Research. For more information on Indian grading scales, please refer to the chapter
Grading Scale in International Education Guide for the Assessment of Education from the
Republic of India.
Issuing Body:
Universities and university-level institutions
Note: The issuing body must be a university or university-level institution that appears on the
consolidated list of universities published by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
Admission Requirements:
• Three-year Bachelor’s degree with good marks (e.g. least 50%)
• Admission test (e.g. Common Admission Test, or CAT) and interview
• Work experience (for some programs)
Program Description:
Two-year graduate degree program, or
One-year (one-and-a-half-year) graduate degree program, etc.
Placement Recommendations:
IQAS Recommendations:
• (Two-year MBA) Generally compares to the completion of a Master of Business
Administration (MBA) degree.
IQAS Rationale:
Business and Management Education in India
University-level business and management education originated in the United States in the late
19th century. In 1908 Harvard Business School offered the world’s first MBA program, and in
1943 the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business introduced the first Executive
MBA program.
Soon after India gained independence in 1947, a number of institutions started offering various
types of management education. For example, Xavier Labour Relations Institute, established
in 1949, began by offering courses for industry and trade unions and has since developed into
a prominent business school. The Administrative Staff College of India, modelled after the
Administrative Staff College at Henley-on-the-Thames, the UK, was established in 1956 to
provide training for mid-level managers and administrators. In the 1950s University of Delhi,
University of Madras and Andhra University were among the first universities to offer
management programs.
Modern management education in India has evolved under great American influence in both
curriculum and pedagogy. The first Indian Institutes of Managements (IIMs), IIM Calcutta and
IIM Ahmedabad, were founded in 1961 in collaboration with the Ford Foundation, the Sloane
School of Management of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Harvard Business
School. A total of 20 IIMs have been established. Initially set up as autonomous institutions
under the Societies Act, the IIMs were reauthorized as degree-granting institutions under the
IIM Bill of 2017.
Management education began to enjoy a high profile in the country after the economic
liberalization of 1991. The 1990s and 2000s saw rapid growth in management education at
various sectors and levels – more universities offered MBA as well as three-year BBA
programs, and thousands of private institutions were approved by the All India Council for
Technical Education (AICTE) to offer non-degree programs in management education such as
Post Graduate Diplomas in Management (PGDM).
The UGC (Minimum Standards of Instruction for the Grant of the Master’s Degree through
Formal Education) Regulations, 2003 (amended in 2013) prescribes the following:
• Admission to a master’s degree program is based on completion of an undergraduate
program of at least three years’ duration, or completion of the prescribed number of
In December 2001 the UGC published model curriculums for 32 programs, including the
Master of Business Administration, and requested universities to adopt the curriculums (after
making amendments, if needed) by July 2002.
According to the UGC 2001 model curriculum, the MBA is a two-year fulltime program,
consisting of the first year, summer training, and the second year. In the first year, students
take compulsory, foundational subjects. The summer training lasts eight to 10 weeks, when
students work at an organization to complete a project. In the second year, students take a few
more compulsory subjects as well as optional subjects in various fields of specialization. Each
course or paper carries 100 marks. Students must complete 31 courses for a total of 3200
marks plus summer training to receive the MBA degree. All listed courses come with
descriptions (objectives, course content, and suggested readings).
The draft regulations on technical education published by the UGC in 2013 (and yet to be
enacted) provides a list of qualifications in technical education along with entry requirements
and durations of study. MBA, along with Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM), is
described as a two-year program that requires a minimum of a three-year bachelor’s degree for
admission.
While the 2001 UGC model curriculum for MBA has not been updated, AICTE published a
Model Curriculum for Management Program (MBA & PGDM) in 2018, applying the same
standards to MBA and PGDM programs. Both the MBA and PGDM are two-year programs
involving a total of 102 credits; the model curriculum identifies six learning outcomes and
prescribes core courses, electives, and compulsory internship/field work.
The model curriculum lists a number of elective courses in each of the functional areas and
identifies a few new and evolving specializations beyond the traditional functional areas.
Some universities and university-level institutions may offer MBA programs that not only fail
to follow the UGC model curriculum but also contravene other UGC regulations. For example,
the minimum standards for master’s degrees require two years of fulltime study after a three-
year bachelor’s degree, yet some MBA programs fall far short of this norm. Before July 4,
2018, the UGC did not recognize any distance education programs conducted solely through
the online mode, yet some universities had been offering online degrees, including MBAs, for
many years. There are also non-university institutions without degree-awarding power that
nevertheless offer MBA programs without any university affiliation.
In the above example, the MBA program is conducted online, yet the final credential may not
indicate the online mode of study. While students may spend two years on the program, the
academic workload (16 courses) is comparable to slightly more than one year of fulltime
study.
EMBA Programs
Neither the UGC nor AICTE has published EMBA curriculum standards. While MBA is a
UGC-specified degree (minimum two years after a bachelor’s degree), EMBA is not. On the
other hand, the UGC-DEB (Distance Education Bureau) lists of recognized open and distance
learning programs include a few Executive MBAs. In common usage, EMBA often refers to
non-degree management programs such as Executive PGDMs, and the descriptor “executive”
does not necessarily indicate that a program is designed for working professionals with many
years of business experience but rather that program duration is less than two years.
Some EMBA programs (e.g. one-year EMBA) do not meet UGC minimum standards for
master’s degrees. The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) indicates that Executive
MBAs of one year’s duration are not given equivalence to regular MBAs.
Venkateshwara Open University, a private university in Arunachal Pradesh, has been offering
online EMBA programs that can be completed in 12-24 months. The academic workload of
the program listed below is comparable to less than one year’s worth of fulltime study.
There are also non-university institutions without degree-awarding power that nevertheless
offer EMBA programs. For example, Guru Nanak Institute of Management Studies (GNIMS)
Conclusion:
Two-year MBA programs require a three-year bachelor’s degree for admission, representing at
least five years of postsecondary education in total. They typically follow the UGC or AICTE
model curriculum for MBA, consisting of one year of general business courses followed by
one year of electives in select functional areas of management. They provide access to
employment and may lead to further education in MPhil and doctoral programs in business
and management.
Based on the above information and placement recommendations from other evaluation
resources, IQAS compares the two-year MBA to the completion of a Master of Business
Administration (MBA) degree.
EMBA programs that involve two years of fulltime study or its part-time equivalent generally
follow the same curriculum standards set by the UGC or AICTE model curriculum for MBA.
They require a three-year bachelor’s degree plus some work experience for admission, and
typically feature evening and/or weekend classes to cater for working professionals. They
provide access to employment and may lead to further education in MPhil and doctoral
programs in business and management.
Based on the above information and placement recommendations from other evaluation
resources, IQAS compares two-year EMBA to the completion of an Executive Master of
Business Administration (EMBA) degree.
MBA and EMBA degrees that involve less than two years of fulltime study or its part-time
equivalent do not meet UGC minimum standards for master’s degrees and represent less than
five years of postsecondary study. They may be accepted for employment purposes outside the
central government but do not lead to further education in MPhil and doctoral programs. Some
programs may have been conducted online in violation of UGC regulations, though the
credentials may show no indication of the online mode of education. IQAS does not assess
such programs.
Grading:
Most bachelor’s and master’s degrees are classified into divisions or classes based on the
marks students obtain in the major examinations at the end of each year or semester. Grading
scale varies from institution to institution. The Indian system is low marking, with minimum
For more information on Indian grading scales, please refer to the chapter Grading Scale in
International Education Guide for the Assessment of Education from the Republic of India.
Category: University-level and other accredited postgraduate certificate and diploma programs
Issuing Body: Universities, university-level institutions and other institutions with appropriate
program accreditation
Admission Requirements:
•Bachelor’s degree (3 or 4 years)
Program Description:
• Postgraduate certificate or diploma program [usually one year but length may vary from six
months to two years]
IQAS Rationale:
Postgraduate certificate and diploma programs provide advanced training in a range of technical
and specialized fields. Many of the fields fall under the purview of the AICTE (All India Council
for Technical Education):
– Engineering & Technology
– Management
– Computer Applications
– Architecture & Town Planning
– Pharmacy
– Hotel Management & Catering Technology
– Applied Arts and Craft
Management is one of the most popular fields for postgraduate certificates and diplomas. Such
programs cover a wide range of management areas including general management, financial
management, human resource management, international management, etc. They last one, one
and a half, or two years fulltime or up to three years on a part-time basis. Entry is based on a
bachelor’s degree in any discipline, though some specialized programs such as Postgraduate
Diploma in Agricultural Business Management (PGDABM) and Postgraduate Diploma in
Materials Management (PGDMM) require a bachelor’s degree in a related area of specialization.
Many postgraduate diplomas are for employment purposes and do not provide advanced standing
for further academic studies. Two exceptions, the postgraduate diplomas in medicine approved
by the Indian Medical Council, and postgraduate diplomas in management (PGDM) offered by
institutions whose PGDM is equated with MBA by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU),
are described below.
Two-year fulltime Management programs from institutions whose PGDM is equated with
MBA by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU)
The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) provides a periodically updated list of institutions
(including the prestigious Indian Institutes of Management) whose two-year fulltime
Postgraduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) has been equated with MBA degree for the
purpose of admission into doctoral-level management programs.
Name of the Institutions whose Two Year Full Time Postgraduate Diploma in Management has been equated
with MBA Degree for purpose of admission to Higher Studies (April 21, 2017), AIU
S.No Name of the Institute Course Address Equivalence
Offered Granted
1. Acharya School of PGDM Acharya School of Management, 26.11.2013 to
Management, Acharya Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan 25.11.2018
Bangalore Road, Soldevanabhalli, Hesaraghatta
2. Amity Business School, Noida PGDM Amity Delhi/Noida Campus 2002- till the
(UP) Block E2,Amity inception of
(Now University) University Campus the university
3. Amrita Institute of PGDM Amrita School of Business, 2002 - 2007
Management, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham,
Coimbatore Amritanagar, Coimbatore -
4. Apeejay School of PGDM Sector-8, Institutional Area, 30.12.2014 to
Management Dwarka, New Delhi- 110077 29.12.2016
5. Asia Pacific Institute of PGDM Asia-pacific institute of Management August 2010 –
Management, Delhi 3 & 4 Institutional Area, Jasola, 30 June 2017
Opp. Sarita Vihar, New Delhi - 110025.
6. Asian School of Business PGDM Asian School of Business Management 1.1.2012 –
Management, Bhubaneswar Shiksha Vihar PO- Bhola (Chandaka) 29.12.2016
Bhubaneswar – 754012
7. A Balaji Institute of Management, Balaji Institute of Modern 26.11.2013 to
Management & Human Management, & Human Resource 25.11.2018
Resource Development, Development Pune (BIMHRD)
Pune (BIMHRD) 55/2-7, Tathawade, Near Wakad,
Balaji Institute of Marketing & Balaji Institute of Modern Management, 26.11.2013 to
Human Resource Finance Resource Development Pune (BIMHRD) 25.11.2018
Pune (BIMHRD) Management 55/2-7, Tathawade, Near Wakad, Off.
Bangalore Bypass, Pune 411 033
Balaji Institute of Personnel Balaji Institute of Modern Management, 26.11.2013 to
Human Resource Management & Resource Development Pune (BIMHRD) 25.11.2018
Pune (BIMHRD) Human 55/2-7, Tathawade, Near Wakad, Off.
Resource Bangalore Bypass, Pune 411 033
Development
7. B Balaji Institute of Telecom & Telecom Balaji Institute of Telecom Management 26.11.2013 to
Management, Pune (BITM) Management, 55/2-7, Tathawade, Near Wakad, Off.
55 New Delhi Institute of PGDM New Delhi institute of Management May 2008 –
Management, New Delhi 60 & 50(B&C), Behind Batra Hospital, 29-12-2016
Tughlakabad Institutional Area New
56 NIILM Centre for PGDM NIILM Centre for Management Studies April 2004 -
Management Plot No-53, Knowledge Park V, Greater 29-12-2017
Studies, New Delhi Noida-201306, U.P.
Conclusion
Postgraduate certificate and diploma programs involve six months to two years of fulltime study.
While the general entry requirement is the completion of a bachelor’s degree in any discipline (3
or 4 years), programs in some specialized and professional fields require a bachelor’s degree (4
years) in the same or a related field for admission. The certificate/diploma allows an individual
to seek employment and, in some cases, admission into a master’s degree program with
advanced standing.
Postgraduate Diplomas in Management (PGDM) offered at institutions on the AIU list involve
two years of fulltime study, with entry based on the completion of a bachelor’s degree. This
translates into a minimum of five years (3+2) of postsecondary study in total. The PGDM,
equated with MBA by the AIU, allows an individual to seek employment and admission into
doctoral-level programs in management. In comparison, MBA programs in Canada usually
involves at least one year of fulltime study, with entry based on the completion of a four-year
bachelor’s degree.
Based on the above information and placement recommendations of other evaluation resources,
IQAS compares the two-year fulltime Postgraduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)
from the institutions on the AIU list to the completion of a Master of Business
Administration (MBA) degree.
Postgraduate diplomas in medicine approved by the Indian Medical Council involve two years of
fulltime study following the completion of a Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS
or BMBS). Students can choose from 28 fields of specialization.
Grading:
Most bachelor’s and master’s degrees are classified into divisions or classes based on the marks
students obtain in the major examinations at the end of each year or semester. Other programs
such as certificates, diplomas and research-based degrees (M.Phil and Ph.D.) are usually
awarded without classification. Grading scale varies from institution to institution. The Indian
system is low marking, with minimum pass mark generally ranging between 33 and 40%, though
some institutions or programs adopt a 50% pass. Students who have failed in one or more
subjects in a major examination but who have achieved institution-designated minimum marks
(e.g. 25%) in the aggregate may be allowed to proceed with their study and make up the failed
subjects at a subsequent examination. The following table shows a common grading scale along
with conversion to Alberta grades.
For more information on Indian grading scales, please refer to the chapter Grading Scale in
International Education Guide for the Assessment of Education from the Republic of India.
Category: University
Admission Requirements:
•Master’s degree
Program Description:
• One-year (or one-and-one-half-year, two-year) university graduate degree program
IQAS Recommendations:
A Master of Philosophy (M.Phil) degree [in combination with the previous Master’s degree]
generally compares to the completion of a two-year Master’s degree with a focus in xxx.
Or assessed individually.
IQAS Rationale:
Program Description
The UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of M.PHIL./PH.D Degrees)
Regulations (June 1, 2009) prescribes some general guidelines for M.Phil and Ph.D. programs.
For example, M.Phil/Ph.D. students must undertake a minimum of one semester of
coursework, which must include a course on research methodology. After completion of
coursework, students proceed to work on the thesis, which must be evaluated by at least two
experts, one of whom from another state or outside of the country.
The UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of M.PHIL./PH.D Degrees)
Regulations (May 5, 2016), which superseded the 2009 regulations, prescribes more detailed
standards for various aspects of M.Phil programs:
• Candidates for admission to the M.Phil program must have a Master’s degree or a
professional degree declared equivalent to the Master’s degree by the corresponding
statutory regulatory body, with at least 55% marks in aggregate or its equivalent grade
on the UGC 7-point scale.
• M.Phil programs shall be for a minimum duration of two consecutive semesters or one
year and a maximum of four consecutive semesters or two years.
• In the first one or two semesters, M.Phil students must complete between 8 and 16
credits of coursework, including 4 credits of coursework on research methodology, as a
prerequisite for M.Phil/Ph.D. preparation. At least 24 total credits shall be completed
for the M.Phil program.
• An M.Phil candidate has to obtain a minimum of 55% of marks or its equivalent grade
in the UGC 7-point scale in coursework in order to proceed to the preparation and
defense of the thesis.
• An M.Phil candidate must present at least one research paper at a conference or
seminar. The M.Phil thesis shall be evaluated by the supervisor and at least one
examiner from outside the institution.
Sample Program Structure: M.Phil (English Literature), Jamia Millia Islamia (a central
university)
Duration: One and a half years (three semesters) of fulltime study
Entry requirements: Minimum 55% marks in MA (English)
Semester I
(1) Research Methodology (Compulsory)
(2) MP 1: Introduction to Literary Theory (Compulsory)
(3) Choose any one of the following courses:
MP 2: Renaissance Studies
MP 3: Life, Literature and Thought in the Eighteenth Century
MP 4: Texts of Modernism
MP 5: Continental Fiction
MP 6: Indian Writing in English
MP 7: Theory and Practice of Translation
MP 8: Seminar I (a flexible course based on teachers’ academic interests)
Semester II: Choose any two of the following courses:
MP 9: Shakespeare
MP 10: Life, Literature and Thought in the Nineteenth Century
MP 11: Twentieth Century Fiction/Poetry
MP 12: Australian/Canadian Literature
MP 13: Twentieth Century American Literature
MP 14: Indian Literatures in English Translation
MP 15: English in India
MP 16: Colonial Discourse Theory
MP 17: Readings in Theory
MP 18: Semiotics
MP 19: Texts of Popular Culture
MP 20: Seminar II (a flexible course based on teachers’ academic interests)
Semester III: Dissertation
The M.Phil degree gives access to employment such as lectureship at a higher education
institution, and admission to doctoral programs. Some institutions require an M.Phil for entry
into their doctoral programs. An M.Phil holder may complete a Ph.D. program in a minimum
of two years, compared with three or more years for a master’s degree holder.
The UGC-AICTE-DEC Committee, which was responsible for regulating distance education
in India until 2013, approved a few M.Phil and Ph.D. programs offered through distance
education until 2007. No distance education programs at the M.Phil and Ph.D. level have been
approved since 2007, and the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of
Conclusion
The M.Phil program requires a master’s degree for admission and involves at least one year of
fulltime study consisting of coursework, directed research and the completion of a thesis. It
represents a total of six or more years of postsecondary study. In comparison, master’s degrees
in Canada involve one to two years of fulltime study following the completion of a four-year
bachelor’s degree, or a total of five to six years of postsecondary study. The M.Phil degree
gives access to further education in doctoral programs. Based on the above information and
placement recommendations of other evaluation resources, IQAS compares the M.Phil degree
from the Republic of India, in combination with the preceding Master’s degree, to the
completion of a two-year Master’s degree.
Grading:
Most bachelor’s and master’s degrees are classified into divisions or classes based on the
marks students obtain in the major examinations at the end of each year or semester. Research-
based degrees such as M.Phil and Ph.D. are usually awarded without classification. Grading
scale varies from institution to institution. The Indian system is low marking, with minimum
pass mark generally ranging between 33 and 40%, though some institutions or programs adopt
a 50% pass. Students who have failed in one or more subjects in a major examination but who
have achieved institution-designated minimum marks (e.g. 25%) in the aggregate may be
allowed to proceed with their study and make up the failed subjects at a subsequent
examination. The following table shows a common grading scale along with conversion to
Alberta grades.
For more information on Indian grading scales, please refer to the chapter Grading Scale in
International Education Guide for the Assessment of Education from the Republic of India.
Category: University
Admission Requirements:
• Master’s degree (e.g. MA, M.Com and M.Sc.) or Master of Philosophy (M.Phil)
Program Description:
• Advanced research-based graduate degree program
• Employment
• Post-doctoral studies
IQAS Recommendations:
A Doctor of Philosophy degree generally compares to the completion of a Doctor of
Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree.
IQAS Rationale:
Program Description
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D. or D.Phil.) involves at least two years of fulltime study
following the M.Phil or at least three years following a master’s degree, and is normally
completed within five years after registration. Entry is based on the completion of a master’s
degree with minimum marks (e.g. 55%), and applicants may be asked to take a qualifying test
such as the National Eligibility Test (NET) conducted by the University Grants Commission
(UGC). Some programs require applicants to hold an M.Phil, or prescribe additional
coursework in research methodology for those who do not have the M.Phil. Ph.D. study
consists mainly of research, though some programs include substantial coursework. Students
must complete a substantial thesis based on original research and undergo evaluation and oral
examination by a board of examiners.
The UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of M.PHIL./PH.D Degrees)
Regulations (June 1, 2009) prescribes some general guidelines for M.Phil and Ph.D. programs.
For example, M.Phil/Ph.D. students must undertake a minimum of one semester of
The UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of M.PHIL./PH.D Degrees)
Regulations (May 5, 2016), which superseded the 2009 regulations, prescribes more detailed
standards for various aspects of Ph.D. programs:
• Candidates for admission to the M.Phil/Ph.D. program must have a Master’s degree or
a professional degree declared equivalent to the Master’s degree by the corresponding
statutory regulatory body, with at least 55% marks in aggregate or its equivalent grade
on the UGC 7-point scale.
• In the first one or two semesters, M.Phil/Ph.D. students must complete between 8 and
16 credits of coursework, including 4 credits of coursework on research methodology,
as a prerequisite for M.Phil/Ph.D. preparation. Students who are admitted with the
M.Phil, or those who have completed the M.Phil coursework in an integrated
M.Phil/Ph.D. program are eligible to proceed to research work leading to the Ph.D. All
other students are required to complete the prescribed coursework.
• Ph.D. programs shall be for a minimum duration of three years including coursework
and a maximum of six years.
• A Ph.D. candidate must publish at least one research paper in a refereed journal and
make two paper presentations in conferences or seminars before the submission of the
thesis.
• The Ph.D. thesis shall be evaluated by the supervisor and at least two examiners from
outside the institution.
The UGC-AICTE-DEC Committee, which was responsible for regulating distance education
in India until 2013, approved a few M.Phil and Ph.D. programs offered through distance
education until 2007. No distance education programs at the M.Phil and Ph.D. level have been
approved since 2007, and the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of
M.PHIL./PH.D Degrees) Regulations, 2009 and 2016 both stipulate that no institution shall
conduct M.Phil and Ph.D. programs through distance education mode.
Conclusion