New Delhi: The Delhi University (DU) Executive Council (EC) has approved the introduction of a Semester Away Programme (SAP) for undergraduate students in collaboration with foreign higher education institutions. The council has also cleared a proposal allowing eligible students to pursue direct PhD admission after completing a four-year undergraduate degree, marking two significant academic reforms at the university.

The decisions were taken during the Executive Council meeting chaired by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Yogesh Singh. While the proposals received approval, some elected council members expressed concerns regarding their academic impact and submitted formal dissent notes.

However, elected Executive Council members submitted dissent notes, arguing that both proposals may have academic and financial implications for students. 

Key Highlights

• Delhi University approves Semester Away Programme (SAP).

• Four-year UG students can now apply directly for PhD.

• Minimum 7.5 CGPA and one Scopus-indexed publication required.

• One-year PG programmes approved at SOL.

• ₹20 lakh group insurance scheme approved for employees.

Semester Away Programme Approved

Under the newly approved Semester Away Programme (SAP), undergraduate students will have the opportunity to spend one semester studying at a partner foreign university while earning academic credits that can be transferred to their Delhi University degree.

The programme is based on the Undergraduate Curriculum Framework (UGCF) 2022 and participation will be voluntary. Students choosing the programme will be required to pay the applicable tuition fees and other charges at the host institution in addition to their regular DU fees.

According to the proposal, students may also apply for institutional scholarships, mobility grants, or financial assistance. Delhi University and its colleges may offer need-cum-merit-based support, subject to the availability of funds.

Direct PhD Admission After Four-Year UG

The Executive Council has also approved amendments to the PhD Ordinance, allowing students to apply directly for PhD programmes after completing a four-year undergraduate degree.

Candidates will be eligible if they:

• Complete a four-year undergraduate programme.

• Obtain a minimum CGPA of 7.5.

• Publish one research paper in a Scopus-indexed journal.

The amendment aims to encourage research at an early stage and aligns with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Concerns Raised by EC Members

Some elected Executive Council members opposed both proposals, arguing that they could affect academic quality.

Regarding the Semester Away Programme, members expressed concerns that:

• Students would have to bear additional tuition and living expenses abroad.

• The programme may benefit only financially stronger students.

• Credit transfer from foreign institutions could reduce the value of Delhi University's own coursework.

On direct PhD admissions, dissenting members questioned whether undergraduate students would possess sufficient research experience to undertake doctoral studies immediately after graduation.

They also highlighted the absence of an entrance examination or interview in the approved provisions and argued that postgraduate education plays an important role in preparing students for advanced research.

Other Key Decisions Taken by the Executive Council

Apart from the two major academic reforms, the Executive Council approved several other important proposals:

• Pay protection for eligible teachers who previously served on an ad hoc or temporary basis before securing regular appointments through due process.

• Launch of one-year postgraduate programmes through the School of Open Learning (SOL) in:

• MA Hindi

• MA History

• MA Political Science

• MA Sanskrit

• M.Com

• Introduction of a Group Insurance Scheme offering ₹20 lakh coverage for the dependents of DU employees, including contractual staff. Employees opting for the scheme will pay a monthly premium of ₹500 plus GST.

• Approval of the university's annual accounts for 2025–26, including accounts related to hostels, halls, provident fund, and the National Pension System.

Vice-Chancellor Highlights Future Vision

During the meeting, Executive Council members congratulated Prof. Yogesh Singh on his reappointment as Delhi University's Vice-Chancellor for a second term.

"The university aims to enter the world's top 200 universities within the next five years," Vice-Chancellor Prof. Yogesh Singh said during the meeting.

He also noted that Delhi University has improved its position in the QS World University Rankings from the 521–530 band in 2022 to 322 in the 2027 rankings.

What It Means for Students

The approved reforms mark one of Delhi University's most significant academic policy changes in recent years. While the Semester Away Programme and direct PhD pathway aim to expand global exposure and research opportunities, their implementation and long-term impact will be closely watched by students, faculty members, and higher education experts.