UGC Opens ODL & Online Programme Applications for 2025–26! Colleges Can Now Apply for Recognition
Formfees
14/03/2025
New Delhi, March 2025 – The University Grants Commission (UGC) has officially invited online applications from higher education institutions (HEIs) across India seeking recognition to offer programmes under Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode and/or Online mode for the academic year 2025–26.
This opportunity is open to eligible HEIs who wish to start new programs or continue existing ones for the academic sessions beginning July–August 2025 and onwards.
The official public notice was released on UGC’s website on March 12, 2025.
Read the Official UGC Notice: https://ugc.gov.in/pdfnews/7647297_Public-Notice-ODL.pdf
Contents
UGC ODL & Online Programme Recognition 2025 – Key Highlights
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Authority Issuing Notification | University Grants Commission (UGC) |
| Application Type | Recognition to offer ODL/Online Programmes |
| Academic Year | 2025–26 |
| Eligible Institutions | Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) fulfilling UGC norms |
| Applicable Session Start | From July–August 2025 and onwards |
| Mode of Learning | Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and/or Fully Online |
| Last Date for Submission | To be updated on UGC DEB Portal |
| Application Mode | Online via https://deb.ugc.ac.in |
Who Can Apply?
UGC has laid out strict eligibility conditions for institutions applying to run ODL/Online programs. These include:
- Universities/HEIs recognized by UGC and meeting NAAC accreditation benchmarks
- Institutions must not be under any regulatory or legal restriction
- Mandatory infrastructure for LMS (Learning Management Systems) and student support services
- Compliance with UGC (ODL and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020 and amendments
Why This Matters
The UGC’s open call comes at a time when distance and online education is booming in India. This move:
- Encourages quality education outreach beyond physical campuses
- Expands access to professional degrees, diplomas, and certificates
- Allows working professionals and rural learners to access top programs from anywhere
“UGC’s initiative to invite applications is a step toward building a digitally empowered education system aligned with NEP 2020,” said an education policy expert.
How to Apply for UGC ODL/Online Programme Recognition
- Visit the official UGC Distance Education Bureau portal: https://deb.ugc.ac.in
- Register as an HEI with valid UGC credentials
- Fill out the programme proposal form
- Upload required documents (NAAC score, NIRF data, infrastructure proof)
- Submit application and track status online
All applications are subject to evaluation and approval by UGC-DEB.
Official Documents Required
- NAAC Accreditation report
- Faculty list and qualifications
- ICT & LMS readiness certification
- Student support system details
- Past year academic performance report
- Programme structure and content
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FAQs – UGC ODL & Online Applications 2025–26
Q1. Who can apply for UGC ODL/Online recognition?
Only UGC-recognized HEIs with NAAC accreditation and required infrastructure can apply.
Q2. What’s the difference between ODL and Online mode?
- ODL: Combines offline study material with online/live classes
- Online: Fully digital, real-time/recorded classes with digital assessments
Q3. Is this applicable only for universities?
Primarily for universities and deemed-to-be universities, but some autonomous colleges may also be eligible.
Q4. When will the approval list be released?
UGC will publish the recognized institution list on deb.ugc.ac.in after evaluating submissions.
Q5. Can private universities apply?
Yes, provided they meet NAAC, NIRF, and UGC-DEB norms.
Need Help With UGC ODL/Online Application Process?
Whether you’re an institute looking to expand into online education or need help preparing the documentation:
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