UGC Releases List of Universities for Online Courses; Apply by March 31

The University Grants Commission (UGC) had earlier invited online applications from the eligible Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) as per Regulation 3(A) and Regulation 3(B)(b) of UGC (open and distance learning programmes and online programmes) regulations, 2020 and its amendments for recognition of programmes under Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode.

UGC has now published a list of HEIs approved to offer Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programs for the academic year 2023–2024 based on the online applications.

Students can visit the official UGC-DEB website at deb.ugc.ac.in/Search/Course to view a comprehensive list of which universities offer which online courses. Nearly 80 universities that are able to provide numerous online distance learning programs have received approval from UGC.

March 31, 2024 is the deadline for applications to online and ODL programs for the February 2024 academic year. Institutions have until April 15th to upload student admission information to the UGC-DEB website.

“The University Grants Commission (Open and Distance learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2O2O and its amendments, as specified in Annexures III and VIII, shall be adhered to by the Higher Educational Institution with respect to territorial jurisdiction and learner support centres (LSCs),” the UGC stated in an official notice.

Students should be aware of the precautions that the UGC has advised while applying to any institution for an online distance learning program.

According to UGC’s official notice, “Students must verify that HEI is recognized by the UGC DEB website for providing ODL and online education for the session they choose for admission, review the information on the HEls website, take note of programs that are prohibited and the prohibition of franchising arrangements, and ensure that all activities are being conducted within Territorial Jurisdiction for ODL Programs.”