Introduction
In India, the dream of being recognised for one’s lifelong work — whether in education, business, social service, or the arts — often remains unfulfilled simply because people don’t know how to get recognised.
Digital universities are changing that. By offering honorary doctorate programs and welcoming nominations from across the world, these institutions are opening a path for everyday heroes to be formally acknowledged.
Still, a common doubt arises: Is the nomination process complicated? Do you need high-level contacts? Or is it something an individual can manage on their own?
The answer is simple — yes, nomination forms for digital honorary doctorates are generally easy to submit, provided you have your basic details and contributions ready. Let’s walk through how this works.
Who Can Be Nominated?
Most digital universities offering honorary doctorates accept nominations from anyone who has made a notable impact in their field. This includes:
- Educators and trainers
- Entrepreneurs and small business owners
- Social workers and NGO leaders
- Doctors, artists, and musicians
- Motivational speakers, authors, and influencers
- Government officers and civil society contributors
There is no need to be famous. What matters is the impact of your work and your intent to use the recognition meaningfully.
Who Can Fill the Nomination Form?
In most cases, nomination forms can be submitted:
- By the individual seeking recognition (self-nomination)
- By someone else on their behalf (colleagues, organisations, family members)
Digital universities often do not require complex paperwork or recommendations at the first stage. The process is designed to be open, inclusive, and transparent.
What Information Is Typically Required?
Though forms may vary slightly, most nomination forms ask for the following details:
- Full Name and Contact Information
- Current Professional Role or Area of Contribution
- Location and Nationality
- Brief Bio or Personal Profile (usually 100–300 words)
- Summary of Work and Achievements (What have you done? Who did it impact?)
- Any Awards or Recognition Already Received
- Why You Deserve an Honorary Doctorate (your motivation or purpose)
- Social Media or Website Links (if available)
- Preferred Category of Recognition (Education, Entrepreneurship, Social Work, etc.)
Many digital universities also ask whether the nominee is available to attend an event (online or offline) and if they consent to publication of their profile after selection.
Is There a Fee to Nominate?
While the nomination itself is often free, selected candidates are usually informed about event charges, which may include:
- Convocation participation fee (venue, certificate printing, event logistics)
- Processing and documentation fee
- Media and press coverage cost (optional in some cases)
This is clearly communicated after selection, and payment is voluntary and optional until a candidate accepts the award. There is no hidden charge during the nomination step.
Submission Process – Fully Online and Simple
The beauty of digital universities is that everything happens online. You don’t need to courier physical documents or wait for postal responses.
The process usually involves:
- Visiting the official website or nomination portal
- Filling the online form (takes 10–15 minutes)
- Uploading any supporting material (like resume, photos, work samples – optional)
- Submitting the form
- Receiving an acknowledgment or confirmation mail
Some platforms also allow you to download a PDF version of your submission for your records.
What Happens After You Submit?
After submission, here’s what typically follows:
- Review by a screening committee (which may take 1–2 weeks)
- Shortlisting based on merit, impact, and field diversity
- Follow-up mail requesting additional details or documents (if needed)
- Confirmation and invitation to attend the honorary award event
This entire process is usually transparent, and many digital universities publish the list of recipients on their websites or in their convocation brochures.
Language and Accessibility
Good digital universities ensure that their forms:
- Use simple, non-academic language
- Avoid jargon or legalese
- Allow entries in English or local Indian languages (or at least in plain English)
- Are mobile-friendly and easy to fill even from a smartphone
Some institutions even offer WhatsApp-based assistance or guidance calls if you get stuck during the process.
Can Rural or Low-Tech Users Apply?
Yes — many applicants from smaller towns, villages, or low-tech backgrounds have been able to submit their nominations with help from friends, cyber cafés, NGOs, or youth volunteers.
Some universities even accept nominations by email for those unable to use web forms. What matters is the content — a real story of impact — not your digital fluency.
Red Flags to Avoid
While the process is generally safe, here are a few things to watch out for:
- Be sure the university is legally registered and has a traceable address or team
- Ensure that they do not demand fees before acceptance
- Avoid platforms that promise “instant doctorate” without a nomination process
- Don’t fall for overly decorated websites that lack real convocation history
A good digital university will always provide transparency, past recipient examples, and a clear event plan.
Conclusion
Yes, nomination forms for digital honorary degrees are easy to submit, even for individuals without prior experience or institutional backing.
They are meant to be inclusive, simple, and respectful of your time and story. Whether you’re a school principal from Madhya Pradesh or a craftsperson from Gujarat, the form is just a first step — the real weight lies in your work and how it touches lives.
So if you or someone you know has done meaningful work, don’t hesitate. A few clicks may lead to well-deserved recognition — and a moment of pride you’ll carry forever.