UGC invites HEIs to apply for approval to offer programmes under ODL

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued an official notice inviting applications from Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to offer programmes under Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and online mode for the academic year 2025-26. The online application window is now open and will close on April 3, 2025. Interested and eligible institutions can apply through the UGC’s official portal.

Application process and key dates

UGC has invited applications from HEIs for approval to offer programmes under ODL and online mode for the 2025-26 academic year. The academic session will start in July-August 2025. The online application window opened recently and will remain open until April 3, 2025. Institutions that wish to offer these programmes need to complete the application process within this period.

In addition to the online submission, HEIs are also required to submit a hard copy of the original affidavit and annexures. The deadline for this hard copy submission is April 15, 2025. The UGC has clarified that the submission of an application does not guarantee approval. All applications will undergo thorough scrutiny to ensure compliance with the UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020, and its amendments.

The UGC’s official website (https://deb.uec.ac.in) is open for application submission throughout the year. However, HEIs that are entitled to offer online programmes and Category I HEIs that wish to offer ODL programmes need to meet the specific standards set under the 2020 regulations.

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Eligibility and conditions

The UGC has clearly stated that only eligible HEIs can apply for approval. The institutions must fulfill the criteria outlined in the 2020 regulations and its amendments. UGC will evaluate each application based on these standards before granting approval. The UGC’s guidelines aim to ensure that the quality of ODL and online programmes meets national standards and offers a consistent learning experience to students.

UGC has also emphasized that institutions should not consider the submission of an application as an automatic approval. The commission will carefully assess each application to confirm compliance with the prescribed standards. This measure is intended to maintain the quality and credibility of ODL and online programmes across the country.

HEIs seeking to apply for ODL and online programme approval should carefully review the UGC regulations and ensure that their application meets all specified criteria. The commission’s goal is to expand access to higher education through flexible learning modes while maintaining high educational standards.