The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) has officially announced a major overhaul of its accreditation process for higher education institutions across India. The new framework, revealed in a public notice on December 5, 2025, will transition to a system of Basic (Binary) Accreditation followed by Maturity-Based Graded Levels (MBGL) Accreditation.
Understanding the New NAAC Framework
This strategic shift is based on the recommendations of the Dr. Radhakrishnan Committee. Under the new model, institutions will first undergo a binary accreditation—receiving either an 'Accredited' or 'Not Accredited' status. Subsequently, they can aim for graded levels under the MBGL system, which assesses maturity across various parameters.
To manage the transition, NAAC has provided an extension for institutions whose accreditation under the old Revised Accreditation Framework (RAF) was set to expire between January 27, 2024, and the launch date of the MBGL system. Their validity will be extended for up to three months after the new system goes live. These institutions also have the option to opt for the new Basic Accreditation route once it is launched.
MDU's Preparedness and Assurance
Reacting to the development, officials from Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU) in Rohtak expressed full readiness. The university's Registrar, Krishan Kant Gupta, and Dean, S C Malik, briefed the media on December 7, clarifying the university's status and plans.
"NAAC itself has put a transition framework in place," they explained. "Many institutions like MDU, already accredited under RAF, will continue to be treated as accredited until the MBGL system launches and the extended period is over." Dean Malik confidently stated, "MDU is fully prepared for the next cycle of accreditation under the new system. The moment NAAC opens the window, we will apply."
They highlighted the continuous efforts of MDU's Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) in strengthening quality benchmarks and pointed to the university's performance in NIRF rankings and research as testament to its standards.
Clarity on Distance Education Programs
Addressing specific queries about MDU's Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE), the officials offered clear assurances to students and parents. They confirmed that all distance and online programs are run in strict compliance with the UGC (Open and Distance Learning and Online Programmes) Regulations.
Necessary permits from regulatory bodies are valid for offering approved courses until the 2025-26 academic session. Crucially, they noted that the UGC-DEB has generated DEB IDs for all students admitted in the 2025-26 session, which serves as validation from the regulatory authority.
"Students and parents should have no doubt whatsoever," the officials emphasized. "Every student who has taken admission in a duly approved programme of CDOE will complete it and receive a valid degree as per UGC–DEB norms." They also mentioned plans to start new programs in the future, reinforcing their commitment to expanding quality education.
