In today’s competitive world, government-certified courses can help you stand out and improve your skills without spending any money. Whether you’re a student, working professional, or preparing for a job, free online courses offered by Indian government platforms can give your career a boost.
These courses are officially recognized, come with certificates, and cover a wide range of topics like digital skills, soft skills, finance, coding, and more.
Here’s a list of the best government-certified free online courses in India you can take in 2025.
1. SWAYAM – Learn Anything from India’s Top Institutes
SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active–Learning for Young Aspiring Minds) is India’s national e-learning platform by the Ministry of Education. It offers free online courses from IITs, IIMs, and top universities.
Subjects: Management, Humanities, Science, Commerce, Engineering
Certification: Free access; certificate available at a nominal fee after exam
Website: swayam.gov.in
2. NPTEL – Technical Courses by IITs
NPTEL (National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning) provides high-quality technical education from top IITs and IISc professors. Perfect for engineering, science, and computer science students.
Subjects: Programming, Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, AI, Data Science
Certification: Available after online test
Website: nptel.ac.in
3. Diksha – For Teachers and Students
Diksha is an online learning portal launched by the Ministry of Education. It’s especially useful for school teachers, students, and educators looking for professional development.
Subjects: Teaching skills, lesson plans, school education resources
Certification: Free certificate after completion
Website: diksha.gov.in
4. Google x NSDC – Digital Skills for Everyone
Google has partnered with NSDC (National Skill Development Corporation) to provide free digital skill training to Indian learners. It includes career development, business tools, and more.
Subjects: Digital Marketing, Email Skills, Resume Writing, Entrepreneurship
Certification: Free certificate from Google & NSDC
Website: grow.google/intl/en_in
5. IGNOU Free Online Courses
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) offers various free courses online through SWAYAM. These are helpful for students preparing for civil services, competitive exams, or looking to enhance knowledge.
Subjects: History, Sociology, Political Science, Economics
Certification: Available via SWAYAM
Website: ignou.ac.in
6. AICTE-ELIS Portal – For Engineering Students
The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has created the ELIS portal to offer free online courses in partnership with ed-tech companies. Ideal for engineering and technical students.
Subjects: Coding, AI, Cloud Computing, IoT, 3D Printing
Certification: Varies by course partner
Website: elis.aicte-india.org
7. National Career Service (NCS) – Skill Development for Job Seekers
The NCS portal offers various government-led free training programs and courses to improve employability in India.
Subjects: Communication, IT skills, Career Guidance
Certification: Based on course provider
Website: ncs.gov.in
8. Arpit – For Higher Education Faculty
ARPIT (Annual Refresher Programme In Teaching) is designed for college and university teachers looking to update their knowledge in specific subject areas.
Subjects: Physics, Biology, Economics, Teaching Pedagogy
Certification: Available through SWAYAM
Website: swayam.gov.in/arpit
9. Future Skills Prime – For Emerging Tech Skills
Jointly launched by MeitY (Ministry of Electronics & IT) and NASSCOM, this platform helps Indian youth prepare for future tech jobs.
Subjects: AI, Blockchain, Cybersecurity, Cloud, IoT
Certification: Government and industry-recognized
Website: futureskillsprime.in
10. Skill India Digital – One Nation, One Skill Platform
Launched recently by the Government of India in 2024, this is a single platform for all skilling, reskilling, and upskilling needs.
Subjects: Technical, creative, and business skills
Certification: Verified by NSDC
Website: skillindiadigital.gov.in
Final Thoughts
Government-certified online courses in India offer an amazing opportunity to learn new skills, build your resume, and grow your career. All for free. These platforms are trusted, accessible, and recognized by employers across the country.
So if you’re looking to upgrade your skills in 2025, start with these free options and take a step toward a brighter future.