UGC approves 101 universities for online and distance learning in 2025-26

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released its official list of approved Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) permitted to offer Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Online Programmes for the 2025-26 academic session.

For the upcoming academic year, the UGC has granted recognition to 101 universities and 20 Category-1 institutions to provide ODL programmes. A detailed breakdown reveals a robust ecosystem for digital and remote education:

• 113 universities will offer full-fledged online courses.
• 13 institutions will operate specifically under the Online Learning (OL) programme model.

This curated list offers prospective students a diverse choice from central, state, and private universities, all vetted for quality and compliance.

The recognition was not granted arbitrarily. The UGC meticulously analysed applications from HEIs based on the UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020, along with all subsequent amendments.

Key parameters for approval included:

• Faculty qualifications and resources.
• Program curriculum and delivery mode.
• Programme duration and credit hour requirements.
• Adherence to geographical jurisdiction for ODL programmes.

This stringent process is designed to ensure that the education provided through these flexible modes meets the high standards expected of Indian higher education.

In a welcome simplification, the UGC notification clarifies that Central, State, and Private universities do not require prior approval from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) to offer ODL and online programmes in high-demand fields such as:

• Management (MBA, PGDM)
• Computer Applications (BCA, MCA)
• Travel & Tourism

This exemption applies to undergraduate, postgraduate, and postgraduate diploma levels, making it easier for universities to launch and offer these programmes. However, Deemed-to-be Universities must still seek AICTE approval before enrolling students.

Direct Link: UGC Notice

Key Dates

Prospective students must note the critical admission deadline:

• The last date for admission into approved ODL and online programmes is October 15, 2025.

HEIs are mandated to submit admission data through the UGC's DEB web portal, ensuring transparency and allowing students to verify the legitimacy of their enrolment.

The UGC has issued a strong warning to all institutions, stating that HEIs will be held fully accountable for any violation of regulations or for providing misleading information. Penalties for non-compliance can be severe, including disbarment under Regulation 7 of the UGC (ODL & Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020.

Students and institutions are strongly advised to consult the official UGC notification and its annexures for the complete list of approved universities and to strictly adhere to all guidelines for a successful 2025-26 academic year.