UGC-Approved Journals: What Counts Now

What you should know

UGC announced that it would no longer maintain the centralised UGC-CARE list and instead gave indicative, non-binding parameters for identifying quality peer-reviewed journals. Higher education institutions are expected to build their own evaluation systems.

In practice this makes indexing in Scopus or Web of Science, a genuine peer-review process and your institution’s written policy the safest tests. Rules differ between universities and between faculty and PhD requirements, so always confirm locally.

How PhDPRIMA helps, end to end

1. Check of your university’s current journal policy before we shortlist
2. Preference for journals indexed in Scopus or Web of Science, with verified peer review
3. Screening against predatory-journal warning signs
4. End-to-end research and submission support for the journal you choose

How to check it yourself

• Ask your university’s research cell or PhD section for its current written criteria
• Treat any claim of “UGC approved” in a journal’s advertising with caution and verify it
• Prefer journals whose indexing you can confirm at the official source

Common questions

Is there still a UGC-approved journal list?

UGC discontinued the UGC-CARE list in February 2025. Check the current UGC notices and your own institution’s policy.

Which journals are safe for my PhD?

Journals indexed in Scopus or Web of Science with genuine peer review are widely accepted, but your university’s rules decide. Confirm them before you submit.