Yes. In India, a university generally cannot unreasonably delay issuing a degree certificate after a student has successfully completed the course and become eligible for the degree.
The UGC has specifically addressed delays in awarding degrees. Under the UGC (Grant of Degrees and Other Awards by Universities) Regulations, the degree award date is required to be within 180 days from the date on which the student is expected to qualify and become eligible for the degree. UGC has also directed higher educational institutions to issue provisional degrees along with final-year transcripts.
If a university is delaying the certificate beyond the applicable period without a valid reason, the student can:
- Submit a written request to the university's examination or registrar office.
- File a grievance through the university's Student Grievance Redressal Committee (SGRC).
- If the grievance is not resolved, approach the appropriate Ombudsperson under the UGC student grievance mechanism.
- Keep copies of the application, fee receipts, marksheets, emails, and other correspondence as evidence.
Therefore, a short administrative delay may occur, but an unjustified or prolonged delay can be challenged through the university and UGC grievance mechanisms. The exact remedy can also depend on the university's rules and the reason given for withholding the certificate.
