The University Grants Commission (UGC) has officially recognized 101 universities and 20 Category-1 institutions to offer Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes for the academic year 2025-26, with the session beginning in July-August 2025. In addition, 113 universities have been approved to provide online courses, while 13 institutions will offer specialized online learning (OL) programmes.This announcement comes after the UGC invited applications from eligible Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) under the UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020, including all subsequent amendments. Institutions that met the regulatory and quality criteria have been granted recognition to run their ODL and online courses for the upcoming academic session.
No prior AICTE approval required for most universities
As per the 578th Commission decision, Central, State, and Private Universities do not need prior approval or NOC from AICTE to offer undergraduate, postgraduate, or postgraduate diploma programmes in Management, Computer Applications, and Travel & Tourism under ODL or online mode.However, Deemed-to-be Universities must continue to seek prior approval, recommendation, or NOC from AICTE before offering such programmes. Programmes that fall under the ambit of other regulatory authorities have been recognized based on approvals or recommendations from the respective authorities, with institutions required to comply strictly with all conditions such as seat capacity, academic year, and other regulatory requirements.Check the official notice issued by UGC here.
Compliance with UGC and regulatory guidelines
HEIs recognised by the UGC are mandated to adhere to specific programme standards, including:
- Entry-level qualifications of learners
- Mode of admission
- Minimum and maximum duration of programmes
- Number of credits, in accordance with the UGC Notification on Specification of Degrees, 2014 and the 2020 ODL regulations
Additionally, universities must follow the policy regarding territorial jurisdiction and Learner Support Centres (LSCs), as outlined in Annexures III and VIII of the 2020 regulations. This ensures that learners across the country have access to adequate support and guidance while enrolled in ODL or online programmes.
Admission deadlines and data submission
The UGC has set 15th October 2025 as the last date for student admissions in the recognised ODL and online programmes. Institutions are also required to submit admission data on the DEB Web Portal via reverse API to ensure proper tracking and compliance.HEIs have submitted affidavits confirming that they will be fully accountable for the authenticity of the information provided and adherence to all regulations. Any violation could result in regulatory or legal consequences, including implications for learners’ careers.
Expanding access to higher education
This move by the UGC comes amid a growing demand for flexible learning options across India. Online and distance education allows students from remote and underserved areas to pursue higher education without relocating. By approving a large number of institutions for ODL and online programmes, the UGC aims to enhance access, maintain quality, and ensure regulatory compliance.Students interested in applying for these programmes should refer to the official list of approved institutions on the UGC Distance Education Bureau (DEB) website and ensure they meet the eligibility and admission requirements before the deadline.
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