The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is likely to be granted the status of a deemed university by the end of January 2026, marking a significant upgrade for the educational institution. Education ministry officials indicate that the final confirmation is expected within the next 15 to 20 days, following a meeting with the University Grants Commission (UGC).

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan first announced this move in 2023, stating that the deemed-to-be-university status would be granted under the de novo category. This status is expected to boost research and global collaboration as India shifts its focus from degree-based to skills-based education.

NCERT, established in 1961, has been a pivotal organization in shaping India's school education system. As the primary organization for Indian school education, NCERT undertakes multiple activities and programs including educational research and innovation, curriculum development, and the development of textual and teaching-learning materials. The institution assists and advises the government on matters related to school education.

The "de novo" category is for institutions that focus on unique and emerging areas of knowledge not offered by existing universities. With the deemed university status, NCERT will be empowered to offer graduate, postgraduate, and doctoral degrees, significantly expanding its educational horizons. This will further reinforce its role as a think tank and a national resource institution engaged in providing technical support to the Government of India and various State Governments in the fields of school education, vocational education, teacher education, and educational technology.

NCERT also has Regional Institutes of Education (RIE) that offer graduate and postgraduate programs affiliated with local universities such as Barkatullah University, Bhopal; M.D.S University, Ajmer; University of Mysuru; Utkal University, Bhubaneshwar; and North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong.

In September 2023, during NCERT's 63rd foundation day, Pradhan expressed that the organization would soon play a significant role in global success stories. He also mentioned the integration of Bal Bhavan with NCERT to provide holistic education to children. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of incorporating technology into the education system, inaugurating an Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Laboratory. Pradhan directed NCERT to include a chapter on the success of Chandrayaan-3 and its findings in all 22 recognized languages.

The decision to grant NCERT deemed university status recognizes the institution's exceptional contributions to education and its commitment to excellence. It is viewed as an investment in NCERT's potential to further contribute to the nation's educational growth.