NEW DELHI – The University Grants Commission (UGC) has mandated that all higher educational institutions (HEIs) strictly follow foreign student registration rules. This directive comes under the new Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025 , and its associated rules.
Institutions must submit accurate details of incoming foreign students. This submission happens through Form-II to the designated Registration Officer. The UGC notice emphasizes compliance with these new requirements.
Mandatory Information Submission
The Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025 , requires all institutions admitting foreign nationals to furnish specific information. This includes universities, colleges, schools, and any other body enrolling foreigners, including Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders. Information must be submitted electronically via the designated online portal or mobile application using Form-II.
This mandate also extends to foreign students residing in institutional hostels. Institutions must adhere to prescribed timelines for Form-II submissions.
Key Details Required in Form-II
Form-II, which replaces the earlier ‘Form A’ under previous immigration provisions, collects essential data for foreign student oversight. Institutions must provide this information promptly. Key details include:
| Category | Required Information | Submission Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Identification | Passport number, Visa/OCI number, nationality, contact details, address in India. | — |
| Admission & Course Details | Course name, pattern (semester/non-semester/short-term), duration, start and end dates. | Within 24 hours of admission. |
| FRRO Registration | Details related to Foreigner Regional Registration Office (FRRO) registration. | — |
| Academic Status | Semester-wise attendance, exam status, results, conduct, eligibility to continue studies. | Regular updates. |
| Exit Details | Date of exit, whether studies completed, discontinued, or terminated, and reason for exit. | Within 24 hours of exit or completion. |
Purpose and Compliance
The UGC stated that Form-II is critical for meeting Indian immigration requirements. It enables national security oversight for foreign students. All universities and educational institutions must strictly follow these rules and submission deadlines.
The UGC has provided a template for Form-II to assist HEIs in compliance. Strict adherence to the new framework is mandatory.