DU Grants 2-Year Extension for 2016 UG-PG Students to Clear Backlogs Amid CBCS to UGCF Shift

As per university rule, students are normally required to finish UG programmes in three years and PG programmes in two. However, many 2016-17 students fell behind by a year or more due to academic restructuring and disruptions during the pandemic.

In a major relief for thousands of students, Delhi University has approved a 2-year extension for those who were admitted in the 2016-17 academic session but could not complete their degree programmes within the stipulated duration due to the ongoing transition from CBCS to UGCF curriculum.

The decision was passed after detailed discussions in the Academic Council, which acknowledged the academic setbacks caused by systemic and curriculum-level changes. Many students from the 2016 batch, particularly in the final year, were facing challenges in clearing one or two papers, making them ineligible to graduate.

Now, under the approved resolution, these students will be allowed up to two additional years beyond the standard duration to finish their UG or PG degrees. The extension will give them time until the 2025-26 academic session to appear for exams and clear any backlogs.

“We recognised the genuine difficulties these students are facing due to the change from CBCS to UGCF. This decision safeguards their academic future,” a member of the council said.

As per university rule, students are normally required to finish UG programmes in three years and PG programmes in two. However, many 2016-17 students fell behind by a year or more due to academic restructuring and disruptions during the pandemic. This measure allows them a final chance to complete their studies without being forced to drop out.

The university clarified that this is a one-time academic relief and will not set a precedent for future batches. It applies strictly to students of the 2016-17 cohort who have fallen short of credit requirements or failed to clear core subjects.

The move is expected to benefit a significant number of students who were left in limbo, especially those preparing for government jobs or higher studies that require degree completion.