101 universities approved for online and distance learning courses: UGC

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced its updated list of higher educational institutions (HEIs) approved to offer open and distance learning (ODL) and online programmes for the academic year 2025-26.

For this session, 101 universities and 20 category-1 institutions will offer ODL programmes beginning July-August, while 113 universities are set to provide online courses and 13 will offer Online Learning (OL) programmes.

Central, state, and private universities may offer these programmes without prior approval.



However, deemed universities must obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) to run online or ODL courses in management, computer applications, and travel and tourism at undergraduate, postgraduate, and postgraduate diploma levels.

The last date for admitting students and uploading admission data is October 15. Institutions have submitted affidavits confirming the accuracy of their submissions and accepting responsibility for any false or incorrect information, as per UGC regulations.