The University Grants Commission (UGC) on April 23, 2026, issued the notification regarding the Invitation of applications from Eligible Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) for recognition to offer programmes under Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode and/or Online mode for academic year 2026-27, academic session beginning August, 2026 and onwards.
The following has been stated namely: -
• UGC has invited fresh applications from eligible Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) for recognition of programmes under ODL and/or Online mode for the academic year 2026–27 (starting August 2026).
• Applications must comply with Regulations 3(A) and 3(B)(b) of the UGC ODL and Online Programmes Regulations, 2020 (with amendments).
• Application window is open from April 27, 2026 to May 11, 2026 via the official portal (https://deb.ugc.ac.in/).
• Hard copy submission deadline: May 20, 2026, to be sent to the Distance Education Bureau, UGC, New Delhi.
• Some HEIs (e.g., eligible for online programmes and Category-I HEIs) can apply throughout the year.
• Submission of application does not guarantee approval; all applications will be scrutinized as per UGC norms.
[Notification No. 1-4/2026(DEB-NWR)]
