What Is the ABC ID Card?

The ABC ID Card (Academic Bank of Credits Identity Card) is an official academic identity issued to students enrolled in higher education institutions across India. Introduced under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, it enables students to accumulate, transfer, and redeem academic credits across universities — much like a bank account, but for your learning achievements.

Every student pursuing higher education in India needs an ABC ID. Here's how to get yours in a few simple steps.

Prerequisites Before You Begin

  • A valid Aadhaar number linked to your mobile number
  • An active DigiLocker account (or willingness to create one)
  • Your enrolled institution's details (university/college name)
  • A stable internet connection and a smartphone or computer

Step-by-Step: How to Create Your ABC ID

Step 1: Visit the Official ABC Portal

Go to the official Academic Bank of Credits portal at abc.gov.in. This is the only authorised website for ABC ID registration — avoid third-party sites.

Step 2: Click on "Student" Login

On the homepage, select the "Student" option. You will be redirected to the DigiLocker login/sign-up page, as ABC IDs are issued and stored through DigiLocker.

Step 3: Log In or Create a DigiLocker Account

If you already have a DigiLocker account, log in using your mobile number and OTP. If you're new, click "Sign Up", enter your Aadhaar-linked mobile number, set a PIN, and complete verification.

Step 4: Search for "Academic Bank of Credits"

Once inside DigiLocker, navigate to the "Search Documents" section or use the search bar to find Academic Bank of Credits. Click on it to begin the ABC ID generation process.

Step 5: Fill in Your Academic Details

Enter the following details accurately:

  • Full name (as per Aadhaar)
  • Date of birth
  • Name of your institution (university/college)
  • Enrollment/admission year
  • Course/programme name

Step 6: Verify and Submit

Double-check all entries, then click "Get Document" or "Submit". Your ABC ID will be generated within seconds and stored directly in your DigiLocker account.

Step 7: Download Your ABC ID Card

You can now download your ABC ID as a PDF from your DigiLocker Issued Documents section. Your unique 12-digit ABC ID number will be visible on the card.

Tips for a Smooth Application

  • Ensure your Aadhaar is linked to your current mobile number before starting.
  • Use your institution's exact registered name as listed in the ABC/UGC database.
  • If your institution is not found, contact your college's registrar — they may not yet be onboarded.
  • Keep your ABC ID number safe; you'll need it for credit transfers and university records.

What Happens After You Get Your ABC ID?

Your ABC ID acts as your universal academic identity. Credits earned at any registered institution will be linked to your ID. If you change universities, transfer programs, or take courses at multiple institutions, all credits are tracked under one number — making higher education far more flexible under NEP 2020.