AICTE Issues New Norms for Diploma, B.E/B.Tech Courses for Working Professionals

The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has released new regulations for working professionals pursuing UG and PG degrees in engineering institutes, effective 2024-2025. The updated guidelines would apply to B.E/ B.Tech degrees and diploma programs for working professionals in AICTE-approved institutions.

Emphasising the fairness and equity of these guidelines, colleges with an average enrollment of higher than 80% during the past three years will now only consider first-year admissions for working professionals. This change is aimed at ensuring a balanced and inclusive learning environment for all.

The new regulations have introduced more flexible proximity requirements. Professionals working in registered industries, organisations (central or state), private, public limited companies, and MSMEs are now required to be within a 50-kilometre radius of the Institute, a reduction from the previous 70-kilometre barrier. 

Professionals might apply for up to one full-time course and must have regular job experience. The qualifications are the same as those required for lateral admission into the second year. Regarding academic criteria, the AICTE said that complete credits stipulated in the AICTE model curriculum (or) affiliating university are necessary to receive the degree.

In addition, the reservation policy of the particular State/UT applies. However, one place in each Institute will be allocated for individuals who work in central government organisations, industries, businesses, or autonomous organisations based solely on merit. The empty seat may be shifted to the general category without such candidates.