New Delhi, September 30, 2025 – In a major reform aimed at making engineering education more flexible and globally aligned, AICTE Chairman Dr. T. G. Sitharam has announced that the traditional four-year B.Tech programme is no longer mandatory. Institutions may now award degrees after three years, provided students complete 160 credits under AICTE’s model curriculum.
Speaking at an education conclave, Dr. Sitharam stressed the need to prevent outdated learning and student burnout. “If a student fulfills the 160-credit requirement in three years, they should not be compelled to stay on for the fourth year. This approach empowers meritorious students and matches industry demands,” he said.
Historically, B.Tech programmes required up to 200 credits, but AICTE has reduced this to 160 since 2017 to emphasize core competencies. Earlier in 2024, Dr. Sitharam had hinted at further lowering the bar to 140–145 credits, inspired by global models where bachelor’s degrees often require around 120.
The new guideline benefits high-achievers who can accelerate studies through advanced placements, internships, or credit transfers. It also reflects AICTE’s broader push to transform from regulator to facilitator, boost women’s participation, and integrate school-level curricula into technical streams.
Education experts welcomed the move as a step toward competency-based learning. However, universities must swiftly update academic regulations. AICTE will release detailed guidelines by the end of 2025 but has urged institutions to adopt the 160-credit rule immediately.
The announcement comes as students gear up for JEE Main 2026 registrations opening in October, marking another milestone in India’s bid to build a more agile, skilled workforce.
AICTE’s New B.Tech Credit & Duration Policy
| Particulars | Description |
| Earlier Requirement | 4 years, up to 200 credits |
| Current Requirement (2025) – Proposed? | 3 years or more, with minimum 160 credits |
| Possible Future Target | 140–145 credits (as hinted in Feb 2024) |
| Global Benchmark | ~120 credits for a bachelor’s degree (focus on vocational & practical skills) |
| Who Benefits | High-achievers who can accelerate via advanced placements, internships, credit transfers |
| AICTE’s Broader Vision | Shift from regulator to facilitator; boost women’s participation; integrate school curricula with technical streams |
| Expert Reaction | Progressive step; focus on competency-based learning over rote credit accumulation |
| Implementation Challenge | Universities must update academic regulations quickly |
| Guidelines Expected | Detailed framework to be released by end of 2025 |
| Immediate Instruction | Institutions should adopt the 160-credit benchmark for ongoing batches |
For more details on AICTE’s model curriculum, visit the official website at aicte-india.org.