UGC Invites Applications from HEIs for ODL and Online Programmes for 2024-25

The notice clarifies that the submission of applications does not guarantee approval, as all proposals will be scrutinized based on the standards stipulated in the UGC regulations.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a public notice inviting applications from eligible Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) for recognition to offer programmes under Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Online modes for the academic year 2024-25, beginning February 2025.

According to the UGC notice, applications are sought from HEIs as per Regulation 3(A) and Regulation 3(B)(b) of the UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020, and its amendments. Interested institutions can submit their applications via the online portal deb.ugc.ac.in, which will be open from October 15 to October 31, 2024. The physical copies of applications, along with the required affidavit and annexures, must be sent to the Joint Secretary, Distance Education Bureau, by November 15, 2024.

The notice clarifies that the submission of applications does not guarantee approval, as all proposals will be scrutinized based on the standards stipulated in the UGC regulations. Additionally, the application portal remains open throughout the year for HEIs eligible to offer Online Programmes as per Regulation 3(B)(a) and Category-I HEIs under the UGC (Categorization of Universities for Grant of Graded Autonomy) Regulations, 2018.

HEIs already recognized to offer ODL and Online programmes for 2024-25 can also apply for approval of additional programmes. Deemed-to-be universities must seek prior approval from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) before submitting their applications to the UGC DEB for programmes under the ambit of AICTE.