Early Schooling in Vadnagar
Narendra Modi was born and raised in Vadnagar, in Mehsana district of Gujarat. He attended a local school for his primary and secondary education.
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He finished his higher secondary education (SSC) in 1967 from Gujarat State Board.
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Teachers from his youth have described him as an average student but a debater with a keen interest in theatre. He often preferred playing larger-than-life characters in school plays, a trait many analysts believe influenced his later public persona.
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During his school years, he famously assisted his father in selling tea at Vadnagar Railway Station, background he frequently references to highlight his common man roots.
Spiritual Travelling
After finishing school in 1967, Modi did not immediately enroll in college. Instead, he spent approximately two years traveling across India, visiting various ashrams including Belur Math in West Bengal and Ramakrishna Mission in Almora. This period was transformative for his personal ideology, eventually leading him to become a full-time Pracharak (campaigner) for Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in early 1970s.
Higher Education
While serving as a full-time RSS worker, Modi pursued his higher education through distance and external learning programs.
1. Bachelor of Arts (BA)
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University: University of Delhi (School of Open Learning).
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Year of Completion: 1978.
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Subject: Political Science.
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In 2016, following public inquiries, Delhi University Registrar, Tarun Das, authenticated degree, stating that Modi cleared exams in 1978 and was awarded degree in 1979.
2. Master of Arts (MA)
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University: Gujarat University, Ahmedabad.
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Year of Completion: 1983.
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Subject: Political Science (External Student).
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According to university records, he secured a First Class with approximately 62.3%. His subjects included European Politics and Indian Political Analysis.
Legal Scrutiny
Prime Minister’s degrees have been subject of significant political debate and legal petitions, primarily led by opposition parties questioning their authenticity.
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RTI Requests: Multiple Right to Information (RTI) requests were filed seeking details of his graduation records.
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Court Rulings: In August 2025, the Delhi High Court set aside a 2016 order from Central Information Commission (CIC) that had directed Delhi University to allow inspection of 1978 BA records. Court ruled that educational records constitute “personal information” and are exempt from disclosure under RTI Act unless a clear public interest is proven.
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Current Status (2026): As of early 2026, Delhi High Court continues to hear appeals regarding these records, while a criminal defamation case filed by Gujarat University against certain opposition leaders (over their remarks on degree) is proceeding through courts.
Summary
| Level | Institution | Year | Subject |
| SSC (10th/12th) | Gujarat State Board (Vadnagar) | 1967 | General |
| Bachelor of Arts | Delhi University (SOL) | 1978 | Political Science |
| Master of Arts | Gujarat University | 1983 | Political Science |