Delhi University Proposes Semester Away Programme for Undergraduate Students
Delhi University (DU) is exploring a significant new initiative designed to offer students greater flexibility and international exposure. The proposed Semester Away Programme (SAP) would allow undergraduate students to complete one semester of their degree at a foreign university. The plan is expected to be presented at the upcoming Academic Council meeting.
Understanding the Semester Away Programme
Under the proposal, the programme would be introduced within the framework of the Undergraduate Curriculum Framework 2022. Students would have the opportunity to split their degree between their home institution in India and a recognised Foreign Higher Education Institution (FHEI). The core objective is to provide students with valuable global exposure, access to diverse teaching methodologies, and hands-on experience in research, internships, and multidisciplinary learning.
Who Can Participate?
This opportunity is designed for undergraduate students who enrolled in the 2022-23 academic session or later. To ensure timely degree completion, students will be able to opt for the programme during their third, fifth, or seventh semester. This structure is intended to allow participants to integrate the international experience into their academic journey without causing delays in their graduation timeline.
Credit Requirements and Academic Regulations
The proposal outlines specific academic guidelines for the programme:
- Students will spend one semester studying at a partner institution abroad.
- Participants must successfully complete a minimum of 12 and a maximum of 26 credits during their time overseas.
- All degree requirements and academic conditions must be met to ensure the semester counts towards their final qualification.
Internships and Practical Training Abroad
Beyond classroom learning, the programme is expected to offer students the chance to pursue internships or practical training placements at international organisations. According to DU Registrar Vikas Gupta, these opportunities will be available provided that students continue to meet all the requirements of their core coursework and academic programme.
Financial Support for Students
Recognising the potential financial barriers to studying abroad, the university is also considering providing financial assistance to meritorious students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. This step is aimed at ensuring that the opportunity is accessible to a wider pool of students, regardless of their financial circumstances.
This initiative is seen as a move to strengthen the multiple exit and entry options already in place under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. By offering a pathway for international learning, Delhi University is looking to enhance its academic offerings and better prepare its students for a globally connected world.
