Delhi University Allows Pause and Resume Option for UG Students under NEP 2020 Guidelines

In a landmark step towards making higher education more flexible and inclusive, Delhi University (DU) has rolled out a new academic policy allowing undergraduate students to pause and resume their degree programmes. The change comes under the Multiple Entry and Exit (ME-ME) system, introduced as part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and implemented through the Undergraduate Curriculum Framework (UGCF) 2022.

The ME-ME system enables students to exit a programme after completing any even-numbered semester and rejoin within a defined period—without losing their earned academic credits. The move is expected to particularly benefit students facing interruptions due to personal, financial, or professional commitments.

What the New System Offers:

• Exit after 1st Year (Semester II): Undergraduate Certificate (minimum 44 credits)

• Exit after 2nd Year (Semester IV): Undergraduate Diploma (minimum 88 credits)

• Exit after 3rd Year (Semester VI): Bachelor’s Degree (minimum 132 credits)

• Continue till 4th Year (Semester VIII): Bachelor’s with Honours/Research/Entrepreneurship (minimum 176 credits)

Students re-entering the programme must do so within three to four years, depending on the exit level, and within an overall seven-year cap. The credit system is based on classroom and lab hours, with one credit representing one hour of teaching or two hours of lab/field work per week.

DU has clarified that students must apply for an official exit before the next academic session begins. If a student exits mid-session, only the qualification corresponding to the last completed academic year will be recognised. Any disputes related to the new system will be resolved by the Vice Chancellor.

Additional rules regarding lateral admissions from other universities or institutions are expected in the coming months.

Why It Matters

In an era where student priorities are increasingly shaped by internships, entrepreneurial pursuits, competitive exams, or family responsibilities, this move brings Indian higher education in step with global norms. The modularity of the ME-ME system recognises academic effort at every stage and ensures students do not have to abandon their goals due to temporary setbacks.

With this reform, Delhi University is not just reducing dropout rates—it is reimagining higher education for the 21st century.

Source: TOI