The University Grants Commission has invited fresh applications from Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) for recognition to offer programmes under Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and/or Online mode for academic year 2026-27, with the academic session beginning January-February 2027 onwards.
Applications are invited under Regulation 3(A) and Regulation 3(B)(b) of the UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020, and its amendments. Regulation 3(A) covers HEIs seeking recognition to offer ODL programmes, while Regulation 3(B)(b) pertains to online programmes, the two tracks under which the UGC’s Distance Education Bureau (DEB) grants approval.
The online application window is open from September 1 to September 15, 2026, on the DEB portal, https://deb.ugc.ac.in/. HEIs must follow up the online submission with hard copies of the original affidavit and annexures by September 25, 2026, sent to the Joint Secretary, Distance Education Bureau, UGC, 35 Feroze Shah Road, New Delhi-110001.
Separately, the UGC has clarified that the application submission window for recognition remains open year-round on the DEB portal for HEIs already entitled to offer online programmes, and for Category-I HEIs seeking to offer ODL programmes. This is distinct from the September 1-15 window, which applies specifically to the 2026-27 academic year cycle with sessions starting January-February 2027.
The commission has cautioned that mere submission of an application should not be treated as grant of approval. All applications will be subject to scrutiny against the standards laid down in the 2020 Regulations and its amendments. HEIs have been directed to check the DEB website for the prescribed application fee and for further updates or announcements on the process.
