Mumbai’s autonomous colleges are preparing to roll out the fourth year of undergraduate programmes under the National Education Policy 2020, but early indications suggest classrooms may remain largely empty.

Internal surveys conducted by several colleges affiliated with University of Mumbai show that only around 5 to 10% of third-year students are likely to opt for the additional year when the new academic structure is introduced in June 2026.

College administrators attribute the muted response to limited awareness about the new framework, uncertainty over its employment advantages, and the enduring popularity of the traditional three-year undergraduate (UG) degree followed by a two-year postgraduate (PG) programme.

The four-year track appears to be drawing interest mainly from students already inclined toward postgraduate studies—particularly in science disciplines—while those enrolled in professional or job-oriented courses remain cautious.

According to Parag Ajgaonkar, the trend was expected in the initial year of implementation.

“In a long-established system where students typically enter the workforce after completing a three-year UG degree, it is natural that only those already planning postgraduate studies will consider the fourth year initially. It will take time for the new structure to become the norm,” he said.

Surveys at Narsee Monjee College of Commerce and Economics indicate that 5–10% of third-year students are interested in the additional year—roughly mirroring the proportion that currently pursues an M.Com after graduation. 

Ajgaonkar noted that the numbers are still sufficient for the college to proceed with the rollout.

He added that students and parents are likely to weigh the cost-benefit equation carefully, particularly in professional courses popular among Mumbai students.

“Unless industry begins recognising the fourth year as valuable, many students will hesitate to spend an additional year on a UG degree,” he said.

Under the NEP framework, autonomous institutions can offer a fourth year with either a research component or an honours track, but only to students who have secured a CGPA of 7.5 or above. 

Those completing the programme can pursue a one-year postgraduate degree, replacing the traditional two-year PG route—effectively saving a year overall, provided universities and employers acknowledge the new pathway.

However, that uncertainty is precisely what is making many students hesitant. For now, several are still assessing whether the four-year UG plus one-year PG route offers a tangible advantage over the familiar three-year UG plus two-year PG model.

At Ramnarain Ruia College, principal Anushree Lokur said science students appear more receptive to the change.

“Students pursuing a BSc who are already certain about continuing to postgraduate studies are likely to view the fourth year more positively,” she said.

Meanwhile, St. Xavier’s College Mumbai conducted awareness sessions after an initial survey revealed limited student interest. 

Principal Karuna Gokarna said the institution plans to conduct another survey before the academic year begins but will proceed with the launch in June 2026.

“We are also planning to allow lateral entry for eligible students from outside institutions into the fourth year,” she said, noting that such provisions could help maintain viable enrolment numbers.

Private universities are also preparing for the transition. At HSNC University’s HR College of Commerce and Economics, the academic council has approved the introduction of the fourth year from the upcoming session.

Principal Pooja Ramchandani pointed out that students aiming for management studies may still prefer to graduate after three years and gain work experience before pursuing an MBA.

At Somaiya Vidyavihar University, around 10 per cent of third-year students have so far expressed interest in continuing for the additional year.

“We have not yet concluded the survey. Depending on demand, we will offer the fourth year in specific programmes,” said Santosh Naraynkhedkar, adding that science programmes may see higher uptake as many students there aspire to pursue research careers.

While most institutions say curriculum planning and academic structures are largely ready, they are still awaiting detailed operational guidelines from University of Mumbai.

When asked about the timeline, Vice-Chancellor Ravindra Kulkarni responded briefly: “Yes, definitely.”

For many students weighing one of the most consequential academic decisions of their lives, however, clarity cannot come soon enough.