Thousands of graduates across India continue to face long delays in receiving their degree certificates, even though the University Grants Commission (UGC) mandates that universities issue the documents within 180 days of the declaration of final examination results. The delays are affecting students' higher education plans, overseas admissions and employment opportunities.

One such case is that of Yusuf Sarfaraz, who completed his final examination at Kolhan University, Chaibasa, Jharkhand, in September 2021. Despite finishing his degree, he had to wait until 2025 to receive his original degree certificate.

During those four years, Sarfaraz moved to London, completed a master's degree in photojournalism and returned to India, relying solely on a provisional mark sheet to establish that he had graduated. His experience highlights a problem that many students across the country continue to face.

Under the UGC's 180-day rule, universities are expected to issue original degree certificates within six months of the declaration of results. The regulation was introduced to ensure that graduates are not denied opportunities because of administrative delays. However, students from several universities report waiting months or even years to receive the essential document.

A degree certificate serves as official proof that a student has successfully completed a programme of study. It is routinely required for admission to postgraduate courses, government recruitment, private-sector employment, professional licensing, scholarship applications and visa processing for overseas education.

While provisional certificates or mark sheets may be accepted temporarily by some institutions, many employers, universities and foreign authorities eventually require the original degree certificate. Delays can therefore create uncertainty, additional documentation requirements and missed opportunities for students pursuing careers or higher studies.

Education experts say the issue often stems from administrative bottlenecks, delayed convocation ceremonies, verification processes, staffing shortages and outdated record-management systems. In some institutions, students are required to make repeated visits to campuses, submit multiple applications or pay additional fees before their certificates are issued.

With increasing digitisation in higher education, experts believe universities should streamline certificate issuance through automated workflows, digital verification systems and online tracking mechanisms. Faster processing would not only improve administrative efficiency but also reduce the burden on students who frequently relocate for work or further studies.

The issue has renewed attention on the need for universities to comply with the UGC's timeline and strengthen accountability in certificate issuance. Students and education advocates have called for stricter monitoring to ensure institutions adhere to the 180-day deadline and provide timely updates on pending applications.

As Indian students increasingly pursue global education and employment opportunities, timely issuance of degree certificates has become more important than ever. Ensuring compliance with UGC regulations would help graduates transition smoothly into higher education and the workforce without unnecessary administrative hurdles or prolonged uncertainty.