Education

Many people look for ways to complete a bachelor’s degree (such as a BA, BCom, or BSc) in just one year, especially if they had to drop out early or were unable to complete it on time.

In India, there is a “Single-Sit Degree” or “Accelerated Degree” program. These programs are primarily aimed at students who:

Dropped out in their second or third year.

Have gaps in their studies and want to graduate to apply for employment or higher education.

How does it work?

Graduation in one year is done through credit transfer or lateral entry:

If you have already completed part of your degree (such as 1 or 2 years), you can complete the remaining years in a single sitting.

Some universities offer “single-sit exams” according to UGC guidelines for students who meet certain requirements.

You must take all your remaining subjects in a single sitting, pass them, and earn your degree in one sitting.

Is it legal?

This method is only legal if done through a UGC-DEB (Distance Education Bureau)-approved university that actually offers credit transfer or lateral entry for undergraduate studies.

Many private agencies and fake institutions advertise “one-year degrees,” but these are often not valid for government jobs or higher education.

Always check if the university is recognized by the UGC, AIU, or DEC.

Which universities offer this?

Some distance learning universities or open universities may offer valid options for students pursuing undergraduate studies. Examples:

• IGNOU (does not offer “one-year degrees” directly, but offers credit transfer in some cases).
• KSOU (Karnataka State Open University)
• NIOS (for Grade 12, not for degree)

Some state open universities may offer similar programs with the relevant regulations.

Always check directly with the university, not through random agencies or websites.

Steps to Graduating in One Year

1. Check if you meet the requirements (academic record, credits earned).
2. Choose an open university recognized by the UGC with a valid credit transfer or re-entry study program.
3. Apply through the university’s official admissions portal.
4. Submit your previous grades for credit transfer.
5. Prepare for exams in a single session.
6. Pass all subjects to earn your degree.

Yes, you can pass the UPSC without any coaching; many candidates have succeeded on their own. All you need is a good strategy, the right resources, and a high degree of self-discipline.

1. Start by downloading the official UPSC syllabus and previous year’s exam papers to understand what you need to study.
2. Read the NCERT textbooks from Grades 6 to 12 in History, Geography, Political Science, Economics, and Science.
3. Here are some must-reads:

Indian Politics – M. Laxmikanth
Modern History – Spectrum by Rajiv Ahir
Indian Economy – Ramesh Singh or Nitin Singhania
Geography – G.C. Leong + NCERT
Environment – ​​Shankar IAS

1. Read The Hindu or the Indian Express daily. You can also check out the monthly news magazines (Vision IAS, Insights, Drishti).
2. Start writing your answers 2 to 3 months after starting your preparation. Follow websites like Insights on India, IASbaba, or ForumIAS to answer daily questions.
3. Take online practice tests for the preliminary and main exams. This allows you to assess your performance and improve your time management.
4. Write short notes for each topic. Review at least three times before the exam for optimal memorization.
5. Plan your day with study slots, breaks, and revisions. A rigorous routine is essential for successful self-study.
6. Use websites to prepare:

Insights on India
Mrunal.org
Vision IAS
ClearIAS
Drishti IAS (for Hindi/English)

Self-study requires focus and commitment, but allows you to take full control of your preparation. Be consistent, avoid distractions, and be confident in your strategy.