The University Grants Commission (UGC) has given colleges more time to apply for approval to offer Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Online courses. The new deadline for Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to submit their applications is now November 17, 2025 . This extension is for the academic year 2025-26, covering sessions that will start from February 2026 onwards. Earlier, the last date to apply was November 10, 2025. This decision was made after many universities and colleges asked for more time.
What is This Extension About?
The UGC is a main government body that sets standards for universities and colleges in India. It also gives money to them. The UGC makes sure that education across the country is of good quality. For colleges to offer special courses like Open and Distance Learning (ODL) or Online programs, they need a special approval from the UGC. This approval is very important because it means the courses meet certain quality standards.
ODL and Online programs are special ways to study. They allow students to learn without having to go to a physical classroom every day. This helps many students who live far from colleges, work, or have other responsibilities. These programs are becoming very popular because they offer flexibility. Colleges that want to offer these courses for the 2025-26 academic year must get the UGC's permission first. The deadline to apply for this permission has now been pushed back.
Key Dates to Remember
The UGC has clearly stated the old and new dates for submitting applications:
| Type of Application | Old Deadline | New Deadline |
| Colleges applying for ODL and Online courses (Academic Year 2025-26) | November 10, 2025 | November 17, 2025 |
This extension specifically applies to courses that will begin in February 2026 and later. It follows the rules set by the UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020, and any changes made to these rules.
Why Did UGC Extend the Deadline?
The UGC decided to extend the deadline because many colleges and universities requested it. These institutions needed more time to prepare their applications. Applying for approval to offer ODL and Online courses involves many steps. Colleges must show that they have the right teachers, study materials, technology, and systems to deliver quality education online or through distance mode. Giving them an extra week ensures that more colleges can complete their applications properly.
This move shows that the UGC wants to help educational institutions. It makes sure that they have enough time to meet all requirements before offering these important learning programs. The goal is to support and expand quality distance and online education for students across India.
What Happens Next?
Colleges that are applying for this recognition should use this extra time wisely. They must make sure all their documents and plans are complete and correct before the new deadline. Students who are thinking about joining ODL or Online courses in 2026 can expect more options as more colleges might get approval.
The UGC has also advised all Higher Educational Institutions to regularly check the UGC DEB website ( https://deb.ugc.ac.in/ ) for any new updates or clarifications. This website is the official source for all information related to Open and Distance Learning and Online programs. Staying updated will help colleges follow all rules and provide the best education to students.
