The University Grants Commission (UGC) has approved 10 Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to offer Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes for the upcoming 2025-26 academic session, which begins in July-August 2025.
In its official notification, the UGC has emphasized that all approved HEIs must strictly comply with guidelines related to:
These conditions are to be followed as per the UGC Notification on Specification of Degrees (2014) and its amendments, as well as the UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020, and any other instructions issued by the UGC or regulatory bodies from time to time.
HEIs offering ODL and online programmes must complete admissions and submit student data through the Distance Education Bureau (DEB) Web portal by October 15, 2025.
Clarification on AICTE Approval
This move by the UGC aims to expand access to higher education and promote flexible learning opportunities, especially in professional and skill-based disciplines.