Gujarat University has launched six UGC approved online degree programmes with a distinctive feature, free Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) electives. This initiative not only widens access to higher education across India and beyond but also guarantees that crucial cultural learning remains entirely cost free, from study material to certification. Applications are open until 7 October with classes scheduled to begin in November 2025.
Expanding access with six online degrees
In its first phase, Gujarat University is offering three undergraduate courses, BA in English, BCom (General), and BCA, alongside three postgraduate ones, MA in English, MCom (General), and MSc in Mathematics. These programmes hold the same recognition as regular degrees, allowing students to pursue higher studies or employment confidently, both domestically and internationally.
The university will operate two admission cycles a year, providing flexibility for students to join at different times. Officials also noted that online enrolments will be significantly larger than traditional classroom capacity, leveraging digital platforms to reach a much wider audience while staying aligned with UGC’s guidelines on online education.
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What makes the IKS elective different
The IKS electives, available as IKS 1 and IKS 3 in semesters one and three respectively, set this initiative apart. Unlike most online programmes that require students to pay for examinations and certifications, Gujarat University’s approach eliminates these expenses.
Students participating in either the online or regular programmes can opt for these electives, combining mainstream academic pathways with insights into India’s rich knowledge traditions. making them entirely free, the university ensures that financial constraints are not a barrier to cultural and interdisciplinary learning.
Assessment, recognition and student support
Assessments will follow a well established 30 percent internal and 70 percent external structure, balancing continuous assessments with final examinations. Students will also have the chance to improve their performance through supplementary exams, supporting those eager to raise their scores.
Beyond the core curriculum, the university plans to roll out add on certificate courses aligned with industry relevance, helping learners sharpen their skills while pursuing full degrees. Consistent with tradition, outstanding performers will earn gold medals and merit certificates, reinforcing academic recognition in the digital space.
Flexibility through dual and joint degrees
Reflecting the National Education Policy’s call for flexible pathways, students will be able to pursue dual or joint degrees, enabling them to combine an on campus degree with an online one. This option provides an efficient route for learners aiming to enhance their qualifications without disrupting their existing studies.
All academic processes, from admissions to results, will be managed digitally. To ensure quality, Gujarat University has created new positions for teaching and administrative staff dedicated specifically to the online division.
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Why it matters now
This initiative highlights the potential of large public universities to expand affordable online learning without compromising on quality or recognition. pairing full degrees with a completely free IKS elective, Gujarat University is blending cultural depth with academic accessibility.
With applications closing on 7 October and classes beginning in November 2025, the timeline is firmly set. The combination of high quality courses, flexible admissions, recognised credentials, free cultural electives and opportunities for academic excellence places the university at the forefront of India’s evolving online education landscape.
