UGC Invites HEIs to Apply for ODL, Online Programme Recognition for 2026-27; Check Important Dates

UGC has invited eligible HEIs to apply for recognition of ODL and online programmes for 2026-27. Online application form can be filled from September 1 to 15. Check notice here

UGC Invites HEIs to Apply for ODL, Online Programme Recognition

UGC ODL, Online Programme Recognition 2026-27: University Grants Commission (UGC) has invited fresh online applications from eligible Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) willing to get recognition to offer programmes through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and online mode for academic year 2026-27 and academic sessions beginning January-February 2027 onwards.

UGC ODL, Online Programme Recognition application will begin on September 1, 2026, and eligible institutions can submit their applications through Distance Education Bureau (DEB) portal. The online application window will remain open until September 15, 2026.

UGC ODL, Online Programme Recognition 2026-27 Important Dates

Check table to know important dates 

Institutions planning to offer recognised ODL or online programmes are required to complete the application process within prescribed timeline.

Application Based on UGC Regulations

Application has been opened in accordance with UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020, along with subsequent amendments. HEIs must fulfil eligibility criteria and other regulatory requirements prescribed by the Commission to become eligible for recognition.

Institutions are required to submit the application through the designated DEB portal along with the prescribed documents and information. The application fee and other requirements will be as specified by the UGC.

Hard Copy Submission Deadline

Apart from submitting application online, HEIs will also be required to submit the original affidavit and relevant annexures in hard copy. The last date for submitting these documents is September 25, 2026. The documents are required to be sent to

Joint Secretary, Distance Education Bureau (DEB), UGC
35, Feroze Shah Road, New Delhi

Application Does Not Guarantee Recognition

UGC has clarified that submission of an application does not automatically grant recognition or approval to an institution or its programmes. All applications will be scrutinised by Commission against eligibility criteria, standards and conditions prescribed under the applicable UGC regulations. Recognition will be granted only to institutions that fulfil the required regulatory conditions.

The Commission has also stated that application submission window is available throughout the year for HEIs that are already entitled to offer online programmes and for Category-I HEIs eligible to offer ODL programmes.