The University Grants Commission (UGC), under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, has announced an important update for Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) across the country. Through a public notice (F. No. 1-4/2025(DEB-NER)) dated 11th November 2025, the UGC has officially extended the last date for submission of applications for institutions seeking recognition to offer programmes under Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode and/or Online mode for the academic year 2025–26, beginning February 2026.
Background and Purpose of the Extension
Earlier, as per the UGC notice dated 21st October 2025, the last date for submission was set for 10th November 2025. However, several HEIs from across the country requested additional time to complete the application process due to procedural and administrative challenges. Taking these genuine requests into consideration, UGC has now decided to extend the deadline by one week, moving it to 17th November 2025.
This extension aims to ensure that all eligible higher education institutions—as defined under Regulation 3(A) and Regulation 3(B)(b) of the UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020 and its amendments—get a fair opportunity to apply for programme recognition.
Revised Application Timeline
According to the latest notification, the key dates and details are as follows:
- Last Date for Online Application: 17th November 2025
- Application Portal: https://deb.ugc.ac.in/
- Deadline for Submission of Hard Copy of Original Affidavit: 30th November 2025
- Submission Address:
Joint Secretary,
Distance Education Bureau (DEB),
University Grants Commission,
35, Feroze Shah Road,
New Delhi – 110001
All other provisions and conditions mentioned in the original public notice dated 21st October 2025 remain unchanged.
Why This Matters
The UGC’s Distance Education Bureau (DEB) plays a pivotal role in ensuring quality assurance and regulatory compliance for ODL and Online programmes offered by Indian universities and higher educational institutions. The extended deadline provides additional time for institutions to prepare and submit accurate, complete applications, ensuring that their proposed programmes meet the required quality standards and regulatory norms.
As India continues to witness rapid growth in digital education and flexible learning models, the ODL and Online modes are becoming vital pathways for inclusive and accessible higher education. With this extension, more universities and colleges will be able to participate in the digital learning ecosystem, expanding opportunities for students across geographies.
Important Reminder for HEIs
All HEIs intending to offer ODL or Online programmes for the academic year 2025–26 (session beginning February 2026) must ensure compliance with the latest UGC regulations and guidelines. Institutions are strongly advised to visit the official DEB website — https://deb.ugc.ac.in/ — regularly for updates, detailed instructions, and important announcements.
Conclusion
By extending the deadline to 17th November 2025, the UGC has provided much-needed flexibility to HEIs while maintaining its commitment to quality assurance in higher education. This step reflects the Commission’s continued support for expanding online and distance education opportunities, ensuring that Indian higher education remains accessible, relevant, and future-ready.