The University Grants Commission (UGC) has extended the deadline for admissions into Open Distance Learning (ODL) and Online courses for the July-August 2025 academic session. Students now have until October 15, 2025, to apply for recognized online and distance education programs.

This decision comes after several universities across India requested additional time to complete the admission process. The extension aims to ensure wider participation and give students enough time to choose verified and UGC-approved institutions.

Why UGC Extended the Deadline

UGC released an official notification stating that the admission deadline has been extended from September 15 to October 15. The decision followed multiple requests from higher education institutions that wanted more time to handle the growing number of applications.

The new deadline will allow students from remote regions to register without last-minute pressure. It also helps universities streamline enrollment and verification processes.

Importance of Checking UGC Recognition

UGC has strongly advised students to verify the recognition status of both courses and institutions before applying. Candidates must visit the official UGC-DEB portal (deb.ugc.ac.in) to confirm whether their chosen program and university hold valid approval.

Students enrolling without checking recognition risk wasting money and time, as unapproved courses are not valid. UGC emphasized that every student must take this step before making admission payments.

Mandatory DEB-ID for Enrollments

According to UGC rules, every learner must generate a unique DEB-ID before applying. This ID is mandatory for admission to any ODL or Online program offered by recognized institutions.

The DEB-ID is linked to the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC-ID). Students can create their ID using Aadhaar, PAN, or DigiLocker credentials. The process is available through portals such as deb.ugc.ac.in, www.abc.gov.in, and www.digilocker.gov.in.

Once generated, the DEB-ID remains valid for a lifetime. UGC clarified that this rule applies to all Indian students, excluding foreign nationals.

Courses Restricted Under ODL and Online Mode

UGC has outlined strict rules regarding which courses cannot be pursued under distance or online education. The commission emphasized that professional and technical courses requiring laboratory work or physical training must not be offered in ODL or online formats.

Courses Not Allowed in Online or ODL Mode:

• Engineering

• Medical

• Physiotherapy

• Occupational Therapy

• Paramedical subjects

• Pharmacy

• Nursing

• Dental

• Architecture

• Law

• Agriculture

• Horticulture

• Hotel Management

• Catering Technology

• Culinary Sciences

• Aircraft Maintenance

• Visual Arts and Sports

• Aviation

In addition to these, UGC has also banned MPhil and PhD through online or distance education.

Institutions Restricted from Offering ODL Programs

At present, some universities have been barred from providing open and distance courses. These institutions include:

• Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Rajasthan

• Periyar University, Tamil Nadu

• NALSAR University, Telangana

These restrictions highlight UGC’s attempt to maintain the quality and credibility of online and distance learning in India.

UGC Guidelines for Safe Enrollment

Before applying, students are expected to follow these guidelines:

1. Verify if the chosen university is UGC-approved for ODL and online programs.

2. Generate a valid DEB-ID using ABC credentials before registration.

3. Ensure the admission process is transparent and operated directly by the university headquarters.

4. Avoid institutions offering courses through franchise centers, as franchising is strictly prohibited.

5. Check the UGC-DEB portal for the updated list of recognized institutions and programs.

UGC has made it clear that no higher education institution can franchise its online or distance education courses. Any course offered through unauthorized centers will be invalid.

Why ODL and Online Education Matter Today

ODL and online programs have become vital for students unable to pursue traditional courses due to work, financial constraints, or distance. These platforms provide flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and access to quality education for millions.

With India’s growing digital infrastructure and demand for skill-based courses, ODL and online education offer learners a chance to balance jobs with education. The extension of the admission deadline now gives more students the opportunity to enroll.

UGC’s Role in Maintaining Standards

UGC, through its Distance Education Bureau (DEB), ensures that only credible and quality institutions run ODL and online courses. The recognition system protects students from falling into the trap of fake or unauthorized universities.

The strict regulations on course types reflect UGC’s commitment to quality learning. Courses requiring practical training, such as medical or engineering, cannot be compromised under remote learning.

Impact of the Extension on Universities

Universities across India have welcomed the decision. With additional time, they can manage counseling sessions, student inquiries, and proper verification of academic records.

This move also supports universities in reaching more students in rural and semi-urban areas where awareness about deadlines is often low.

How Students Should Proceed

Students planning to enroll in ODL or online programs must:

• Visit the UGC-DEB portal and check recognition.

• Generate their DEB-ID through ABC or DigiLocker.

• Carefully choose courses that align with their career goals.

• Keep track of deadlines to avoid missing opportunities.

By following these steps, candidates ensure a smooth and legitimate enrollment.

Future of Online Education in India

The extension reflects UGC’s intent to promote digital education responsibly. With millions of internet users and a growing appetite for flexible learning, India is set to become one of the largest markets for online education.

However, maintaining quality is crucial. UGC’s guidelines ensure that the expansion of digital education does not compromise academic standards.

The UGC’s decision to extend the admission deadline for ODL and Online courses until October 15, 2025, is a major relief for students. It gives them time to make informed choices and ensures that universities follow proper regulations.

By making DEB-ID mandatory, restricting certain courses, and banning franchise models, UGC is building a strong foundation for credible and transparent online education in India.

As the education sector continues to evolve, this extension reflects India’s commitment to making higher education more accessible while safeguarding quality.