When choosing a college or university in India, many students come across the term NAAC accreditation. But what does NAAC really do? And why is it important for your academic and career future?
Let’s make it simple and clear.
What is NAAC?
NAAC stands for National Assessment and Accreditation Council. It’s an autonomous body under the University Grants Commission (UGC).
NAAC’s main job is to assess and accredit higher education institutions (HEIs) in India—like colleges and universities—based on their quality of education, infrastructure, teaching, research, and student services.
It was established in 1994 to improve and maintain the quality of higher education in India.
What Does NAAC Do?
NAAC evaluates and grades institutions by:
-
Visiting campuses and reviewing facilities
-
Checking academic results and teaching methods
-
Examining research output and student support
-
Reviewing innovation, governance, and best practices
Once the review is done, the institution gets a NAAC grade and score.
NAAC Grading System (Simplified)
NAAC grades institutions on a scale of A++ to D, with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) between 0 and 4.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
-
A++ (CGPA 3.76 – 4.00) = Top performing institution
-
A+ (CGPA 3.51 – 3.75)
-
A (CGPA 3.01 – 3.50)
-
B++ / B+ / B = Good but with room to improve
-
C (CGPA 1.51 – 2.00) = Acceptable minimum quality
-
D (Below 1.50) = Not Accredited
Why NAAC Accreditation Matters
For students and professionals, NAAC accreditation helps in:
-
Choosing a Quality College: NAAC grades show how strong a college is in teaching, learning, and facilities.
-
Better Job Prospects: Employers value degrees from NAAC-accredited institutions.
-
Study Abroad or Further Studies: Many global universities check NAAC grades before accepting Indian students.
-
Access to Government Schemes: NAAC accreditation is often needed for grants, research funding, and student scholarships.
-
Career Growth for Professionals: If you’re choosing a part-time or online degree, NAAC-accredited institutions give you a trusted learning path.
How to Check a College’s NAAC Status
It’s simple!
-
Visit the official NAAC website: www.naac.gov.in
-
Use the “Accredited Institutions” search tool
-
Check the latest grade and validity
Final Thoughts
NAAC plays a crucial role in shaping quality education in India. For students, it’s a smart way to judge whether a college or university truly offers value. For working professionals, it ensures your degree holds credibility in the job market.
Whether you’re a first-time student or returning to education later in life, always check the NAAC grade before taking admission. If you're unsure, Touch Campus offers personalized guidance to help you pick the best-accredited courses.