The Online Degree Equivalency Update UK 2025 has officially been rolled out, creating clarity for international students and professionals holding online degrees. The UK’s National Recognition Information Centre (NARIC) has streamlined its approach to validating foreign online degrees under the 2025 policy revision, opening doors for smoother job and higher education access.
Under the Online Degree Equivalency Update UK 2025, candidates with fully remote degrees from accredited foreign universities will now be evaluated using a revised NARIC framework that prioritizes institutional quality, curriculum standards, and student assessments. This shift is seen as an effort to keep pace with the global boom in digital education, especially post-pandemic.
The update removes previous grey areas that restricted online learners from being treated on par with traditional degree holders in the UK.
What’s New in the 2025 Equivalency Policy?
The Online Degree Equivalency Update UK 2025 outlines several critical changes in the recognition process:
-
Online degrees from UGC-approved Indian universities, US-based accredited institutions, and EU-recognized e-learning programs are now eligible for equivalency certificates
-
Applicants no longer need to provide proof of “in-person” exams or residential requirements
-
UK NARIC has introduced a new “Digital Mode Equivalency Certificate” for eligible online graduates
-
Degrees must meet minimum academic credit hours and grading benchmarks to be accepted
This ensures equal treatment for students who complete online education from credible institutions abroad.
Who Benefits From the New Equivalency Rules?
The Online Degree Equivalency Update UK 2025 is especially beneficial for:
-
International students seeking UK higher education admission
-
Professionals applying for work permits or skilled visas
-
Job seekers needing NARIC verification for employer or government roles
-
Individuals who obtained their degrees online during or after the COVID-19 pandemic
The policy is also expected to benefit thousands of Indian and Southeast Asian students who pursued online programs from international universities.
Recognized Institutions and Countries
According to the 2025 update, degrees from the following categories are currently being recognized:
| Country | Approved Online Universities | Recognition Status |
|---|---|---|
| India | IGNOU, Amity Online, NMIMS Global Access | Eligible |
| USA | University of Phoenix, SNHU, Purdue Global | Eligible |
| Australia | Open Universities Australia | Eligible |
| Europe | Institutions accredited by EQAR | Case-by-case |
Degrees from unaccredited institutions, diploma mills, or non-recognized private bodies remain ineligible.
How to Apply for Equivalency Recognition
Students and professionals can apply for NARIC’s evaluation service online. The process includes:
-
Submitting the online degree certificate and transcripts
-
Providing a course completion letter and university accreditation details
-
Paying the evaluation fee (starts at £140)
-
Receiving a Statement of Comparability or Equivalency Certificate in 3–4 weeks
This can then be used for university applications, visa processes, or employment verification.
FAQs
What is the Online Degree Equivalency Update UK 2025?
It’s the UK’s official revision of rules to recognize and validate foreign online degrees for academic and employment purposes.
Can I use an Indian online degree for UK job applications?
Yes, as long as the degree is from a UGC-approved university and meets credit and assessment standards.
Do I need to attend in-person classes for my degree to be valid?
No, the updated policy accepts fully online learning modes, provided the awarding institution is accredited.
How do I check if my online degree is eligible?
You can use the UK ENIC (formerly NARIC) portal to verify if your university and program are listed for equivalency.
Is there a fee for degree recognition in the UK?
Yes, applicants must pay a processing fee (typically £140–£180) to receive a Statement of Comparability.
Are degrees from private universities accepted?
Only if the private university is nationally accredited and meets the UK equivalency framework’s standards.
Click here to know more.