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Over 40% of Kerala students keen to pursue fourth year under new framework

A survey of nearly 66,000 third-year undergraduate students in Kerala reveals substantial interest in extending their studies under the state's Four-Year Undergraduate Programme. The findings provide insights into student preferences as the initiative gains traction across the state's higher education system.

LSN India · 11 September 2026

Over 40% of Kerala students keen to pursue fourth year under new framework

The Kerala State Higher Education Council conducted the survey among 66,014 students currently in their third year of undergraduate programmes across universities that have adopted the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUGP). The results showed that 42% of respondents expressed interest in continuing their studies into the fourth year, signalling noteworthy acceptance of the extended academic framework.

The FYUGP represents a significant shift in Kerala's undergraduate education structure, offering students an additional year of structured learning and specialisation. The programme has been progressively implemented across the state's university system, with participation from institutions across multiple disciplines and academic backgrounds.

The survey's broad participant base, drawing responses from students across all universities operating under FYUGP, provides a comprehensive snapshot of student sentiment towards the extended curriculum. The data suggests that a considerable portion of the student population views the fourth-year option as a valuable addition to their academic trajectory.

Education officials in Kerala are likely to view the survey findings as an indicator of the programme's acceptability among learners, though the results also highlight that a majority of students have not yet committed to extending their studies beyond the conventional three-year period. The findings may inform future policy decisions regarding the FYUGP's expansion and support mechanisms.