The UGC Fake University List for 2026 has been released, and it carries a strong warning for students and parents across India. The University Grants Commission has identified 32 institutions operating without legal recognition. These institutions are not authorised to grant degrees.
According to the latest update, Delhi has the highest number of such institutions. The Commission has clearly stated that degrees issued by these entities hold no legal validity for jobs or higher education.
What Is the UGC Fake University List?
The University Grants Commission functions under the Ministry of Education and regulates higher education in India. It maintains and publishes a list of institutions that falsely claim university status.
In the 2026 update, 32 institutions across different states and Union Territories have been declared fake. These institutions do not have recognition under Sections 2(f) or 3 of the UGC Act.
As a result, they cannot legally award degrees.
Students enrolling in such institutions risk receiving invalid certificates that may not be accepted for employment or further studies.
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Delhi Tops the UGC Fake University List
The latest data shows that Delhi reports the highest number of fake universities in India.
State-wise distribution:
- Delhi – 12
- Uttar Pradesh – 4
- Andhra Pradesh – 2
- Karnataka – 2
- Kerala – 2
- Maharashtra – 2
- Puducherry – 2
- West Bengal – 2
- Arunachal Pradesh – 1
- Haryana – 1
- Jharkhand – 1
- Rajasthan – 1
Delhi alone accounts for more than one-third of the total fake institutions listed.
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Complete State-Wise List of Fake Universities (As of February 2026)
Andhra Pradesh
- Christ New Testament Deemed University, Guntur
- Bible Open University of India, Visakhapatnam
Arunachal Pradesh
- Indian Institute of Alternative Medicine
Delhi
- World Peace of United Nations University
- Institute of Management and Engineering
- All India Institute of Public & Physical Health Sciences
- Commercial University Ltd.
- United Nations University
- Vocational University
- ADR-Centric Juridical University
- Indian Institute of Science and Engineering
- Viswakarma Open University for Self-Employment
- Adhyatmik Vishwavidyalaya
- National Institute of Management Solution
- Mountain Institute of Management & Technology
Haryana
- Magic & Art University, Faridabad
Jharkhand
- Daksha University (Vocational and Life Skill Education), Ranchi
Karnataka
- Sarva Bharatiya Shiksha Peeth, Tumkur
- Global Human Peace University, Bengaluru
Kerala
- International Islamic University of Prophetic Medicine, Kozhikode
- St John’s University
Maharashtra
- Raja Arabic University, Nagpur
- National Backward Krushi Vidyapeeth, Solapur
Puducherry
- Usha Latchumanan College of Education
- Sree Bodhi Academy of Higher Education
Rajasthan
- Rajeev Gandhi Institute of Technology & Management, Bhiwadi
Uttar Pradesh
- Gandhi Hindi Vidyapith, Prayagraj
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose University (Open University), Aligarh
- Bhartiya Shiksha Parishad, Lucknow
- Mahamaya Technical University, Noida
West Bengal
- Indian Institute of Alternative Medicine, Kolkata
- Institute of Alternative Medicine and Research, Kolkata
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Why Degrees From These Institutions Are Invalid
The UGC has clarified that these institutions lack recognition from either the Central Government or any State Government.
Because of this:
- They cannot legally award degrees.
- Certificates issued by them are not valid.
- Students may face rejection during job verification.
- Higher education admissions may be denied.
The Commission has urged students to verify recognition status before enrolling anywhere.
How Students Can Verify University Recognition
To avoid falling into such traps, students should:
- Check whether the institution appears on the official UGC website.
- Confirm approval under Section 2(f) or 3 of the UGC Act.
- Verify NAAC accreditation if applicable.
- Avoid institutions making unrealistic claims.
- Cross-check state government notifications.
Taking a few minutes to verify can prevent long-term academic and career damage.
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Why Fake Universities Continue to Operate
Despite strict regulations, some institutions misuse similar names or claim international affiliations. They often attract students through aggressive advertising or promises of fast-track degrees.
However, official recognition remains mandatory. Without UGC approval, no institution can legally call itself a university.
UGC’s Advisory to Students and Parents
The Commission has once again reminded students not to take admission in unrecognised institutions. It has emphasized that degrees from such places have no legal standing.
Parents are encouraged to double-check before paying any fees.
Education decisions directly impact career growth. Therefore, informed choices are essential.
FAQs
How many institutions are included in the UGC Fake University List 2026?
A total of 32 institutions have been declared fake.
Which state has the highest number of fake universities?
Delhi has the highest number with 12 institutions.
Are degrees from fake universities valid?
No, degrees from these institutions are not legally valid.
How can students check if a university is genuine?
Students should verify recognition under the UGC Act and check official listings.
Can fake university degrees be used for government jobs?
No, such degrees are not accepted for employment or higher studies.
Final Thoughts
The UGC Fake University List 2026 highlights the importance of due diligence before enrolling in any higher education institution. With 32 institutions declared fake and Delhi reporting the highest number, students must stay cautious.
Recognition status verification is not optional. It is essential for securing a valid degree and protecting future career opportunities.
Before applying anywhere, always confirm official approval. A genuine university will always have proper accreditation and government recognition.
John Michael Ramos is a blogger passionate about Government Schemes, Exams, Automobiles, and Trending News. His aim is to provide simple and authentic information.
