Higher Education Institutes

Sri Lanka has a well-structured higher education system that includes universities, technical colleges, and private institutions. While universities play a major role in providing degree programs, several institutions are recognized for awarding degrees under special provisions of the law.

Degree-Awarding Institutes in Sri Lanka

Under Section 25A of the Universities Act No. 16 of 1978, certain institutions in Sri Lanka have been recognized to award degrees. However, these institutions do not hold university status as granted by a university charter under the University Grants Commission (UGC).

These degree-awarding institutes operate independently or in collaboration with foreign universities, offering various undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields such as business, engineering, information technology, health sciences, and arts.

Key Characteristics of Degree-Awarding Institutes

Recognized by the Ministry of Education and granted approval under the Universities Act.
Not considered as universities, meaning they do not hold the same legal status as state universities.
Offer locally and internationally recognized degree programs.
Some institutes have foreign affiliations or partnerships with international universities.

Degree-Awarding Institutes

Several private and semi-government institutions have received recognition to offer degrees. Some of the well-known institutes include: