The University Grants Commission (UGC) is accepting new applications for recognition for the academic year 2023–2024, which will begin with classes in February 2024, in an effort to encourage more higher education institutions (HEIs) to offer programs in online, open, or distance learning modes. The commission announced in a notification that the online application portal will be available between October 10 and October 31. The deadline for offline applications is November 15.
The notification stated that "HEIs may kindly note that the mere submission of an application should not be considered as grant of approval and that all application(s) shall be subject to scrutiny with respect to the standards stipulated in the UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programs and Online Programs) Regulations, 2020 and its amendments".
The UGC amended the guidelines for online and open learning in September of last year to permit autonomous colleges in India to start providing online and distance education programs in the academic year 2022–2023 without requesting prior authorization. Additionally, they will be able to use education technology companies to create content and assessment systems thanks to the modified regulations. To request permission, some categories of HEIs must still submit an application to the higher education regulator. "Eligible HEIs that have already been recognized by the UGC to offer ODL and/or Online Programmes for academic year 2023-24 may apply for recognition of additional Programmes, if any", the notification continued.
