UGC Approved Distance Education University List 2025-26: Guide!

In today's time finding the right distance education university is not only about ease in learning in 2025. Through the Distance Education Bureau (DEB), the UGC developed a streamlined process to approve universities and programs.

If your distance learning degree program does not have UGC (DEB) approval, then it may not be accepted for employment with Government, competitive examinations, or International opportunities.

In this guide on distance education universities and distance education in general for 2025 you will find the current distance education university list approved by UGC and also an overview of all the state-wise details.

Key Takeaways:

Always check UGC-DEB status before enrolling.
Download the latest PDF list from the official UGC site.
Avoid fake universities claiming UGC approval.

What Does UGC Approval Mean for Distance Education?

UGC is the appropriate register of higher education in India. UGC approval is required for any university that is providing distance educational activities or online courses since the authority gives credibility to the institution in the eyes of the government and employers.

Understanding UGC-DEB

The Distance Education Bureau (DEB) is a subdivision of UGC that is specifically responsible for monitoring and providing approvals for distance and online education activities in India. A degree earned without UGC-DEB approval will not be valid; this means:

If you want to apply for a government job.
If you want to do further studies (postgraduate or doctorate, etc.).
The degree may not be accepted outside of India.

UGC vs AICTE vs DEC: Key Differences

There is considerable confusion among students about UGC, AICTE, and DEC approvals. Here is what they mean:

Which Courses Require AICTE Approval?

Courses requiring AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education) approval are technical programs such as engineering, MBA, MCA and management degrees.

Universities require UGC + AICTE approvals for these courses to be considered valid.

UGC-AICTE-DEC Joint Committee

There used to be a joint committee for distance education in India, but at this time, UGC-DEB is solely responsible for overseeing approvals.

How to Check If a University is UGC Approved?

If you follow these easy steps, it is simple to verify UGC approval:

Step 1: Access the Official Portal: Go to deb.ugc.ac.in, and click on HEI/Program List.

Step 2: Search by University Name or State: Type in the name of the university or filter by university name or state to verify status.

Step 3: Download the Latest UGC Approved List (PDF): Click on Download Notices to get the most current list. (For the reader's convenience, we share the link and summary below).

Download the latest UGC Approved University List PDF 2025-26

UGC Approved Distance Education University List 2025: (State-Wise)

Here's the updated list of universities approved by UGC-DEB for distance education in 2025:

Online UGC Approved in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh provides several UGC-approved universities for online and distance learning, ensuring valid degrees for higher education and employment.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	No. of Programs	Approved Programs
Acharya Nagarjuna University	State University	2024-25 to 2028-29	12	M.Sc (Computer Science, Food & Nutrition, Psychology, Statistics, Mathematics, Microbiology, Chemistry, Physics, Zoology, Botany), MBA, MCA
Sri Padmavati Mahila Vishwavidyalayam	State University	2024-25 to 2028-29	02	M.Com, M.A (Telugu)
Yogi Vemana University	State University	2024-25 to 2028-29	01	BFA (Hons.)
National Sanskrit University	State University	2023-24 to 2028-29	08	Shastri (Hons.), BA (Hons.) Sanskrit, Acharya, PG Diploma (Yoga Vijnan)
Jawaharlal Nehru Technological Univ.	State University	2024-25 to 2028-29	01	MBA (General Management)
Sri Venkateswara University	State University	2024-25 to 2029-30	17	MA (Economics, English, History, Sociology), M.Sc (Botany, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, Zoology), MBA

Online UGC Approved in Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh provides high-quality higher education by offering UGC approved universities such as Rajiv Gandhi University, where distance learners will receive a degree that is recognized.

If you are searching for a list of UGC approved universities in Arunachal Pradesh, these universities will be considered for attaining valid credentials for jobs and higher education.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	No. of Programs	Approved Programs
Rajiv Gandhi University	Central University	2021-22 to 2025-26	08	BA (General), MA (Economics, Education, English, Hindi, History, Pol. Science, Sociology)

Online UGC Approved in Assam

In Assam, there are various opportunities for online education with UGC approved universities like Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University and Gauhati University.

If you are an individual in search of an UGC approved university in Assam, then those universities ensure your valid degree for career growth and higher studies.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	No. of Programs	Approved Programs
Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University	State Open Univ.	2023-24 to 2026-27	Multiple	MBA, MA, M.Com, B.Com, BA, IT, Journalism, Social Work
Gauhati University	State University	2023-24 to 2027-28	07	MA (Assamese, English, Pol. Science), M.Com, Mass Comm
Tezpur University	Central University	2025-26 to 2029-30	03	MA (Journalism & Mass Comm, Sociology, English)

Online UGC Approved in Bihar

Bihar has recognized online and distance learning through organisations such as Nalanda Open University. If you need a UGC-approved university in Bihar, those universities provide valid degrees for jobs and higher education.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	No. of Programs	Approved Programs
Nalanda Open University	State Open Univ.	2024-25 to 2028-29	Multiple	MA (History, Sociology, Hindi), M.Sc (Math, Physics, Chemistry), MCA, BCA, M.Com, PG Diplomas

Online UGC Approved in Chandigarh

Chandigarh has trustworthy distance learning options with UGC approved universities that provide valid degrees in the areas of arts, commerce, and management.

If you are looking for a UGC approved university in Chandigarh, all of these universities will provide you with valid credentials for jobs and for further education.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Approved Programs
Panjab University	State University	2023-24 to 2027-28	Bachelor of Arts (English, Hindi, Punjabi, Economics, History, Mathematics, Public Administration, Philosophy, Political Science, Statistics, Human Rights and Duties, Sanskrit, Psychology, Geography, Sociology, Women Studies) Bachelor of Commerce Bachelor of Library & Information Sciences Master of Arts (Economics, Education, English, Hindi, History, Political Science, Public Administration, Punjabi, Sociology) Master of Commerce Master of Business Administration

Online UGC Approved in Chhattisgarh

Students can take admission into either UGC recognized universities in Chhattisgarh like Pt. Sundarlal Sharma Open University or private universities like Dr. C.V. Raman University.

Each of these universities and colleges offers MBA, MCA, and a variety of other professional degrees that are recognized by the industry.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
Pt. Sundarlal Sharma Open University	State Open Univ.	2024-25 to 2028-29	BA, B.Com, MA (English, Hindi, Political Science), MBA, PG Diplomas
Dr. C.V. Raman University	Private University	2024-25 to 2028-29	MBA, BBA, B.Com, MA (History, English), M.Com
Mats University	Private University	2025-26 to 2029-30	BBA, BCA, BA, MA, M.Com

Online UGC Approved in Delhi

Delhi has some of the finest UGC approved colleges in delhi, such as the University of Delhi, Jamia Millia Islamia, and Jamia Hamdard, etc. It offers superior programs in the disciplines of distance education in the fields of arts, commerce, and management that distance learners can take for quality and recognition.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
University of Delhi	Central University	2021-22 to 2026-27	MA (History, Pol. Science), MBA, BA Hons
Jamia Millia Islamia	Central University	2021-22 to 2026-27	BA, B.Com, MBA, MA (Education, English), M.Com
Jamia Hamdard	Deemed University	2025-26	BBA, BCA

Online UGC Approved in Gujarat

There are many UGC approved universities in gujarat such as Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University and private universities. It offers UGC approved degree programs at graduate and undergraduate levels in commerce, arts, and professional fields like MBA and MCA targeted towards working professionals and distant learners.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open Univ.	State Open Univ.	2021-22 to 2025-26	BA, B.Com, MBA, MCA, M.Com, MA
Gokul Global University	Private University	2024-25 to 2028-29	MBA (Finance, Marketing, HR), M.Com, MA

Online UGC Approved in Haryana

Haryana has many UGC recognized universities, such as Maharshi Dayanand University and Guru Jambheshwar University. It also offers online and distance courses in arts, science, and management to meet a variety of academic aspirations.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
Guru Jambheshwar University	State University	2022-23 to 2028-29	BA, B.Com, MBA, M.Com, MCA
Maharshi Dayanand University	State University	2021-22 to 2025-26	BA, B.Com, MA, M.Com, MSc
Central University of Haryana	Central University	2024-25 to 2029-30	MA, M.Com

Online UGC Approved in Himachal Pradesh

For students, some UGC-approved universities in Himachal Pradesh, like Himachal Pradesh University and some private universities/providing Universities offer distance mode programs in management, arts, and commerce, so there are many options where students can pursue a recognized qualification to get ahead for their careers.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
Himachal Pradesh University	State University	2023-24 to 2029-30	BA, B.Com, MA, MBA
Shoolini University	Private University	2022-23 to 2026-27	BBA, B.Com, MBA, MA

Online UGC Approved in Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu & Kashmir provides dependable choices for students looking for flexibility through the University of Jammu and the University of Kashmir, which offer UGC-approved programs in commerce and the arts.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
University of Kashmir	State University	2021-22 to 2026-27	MA, M.Com
University of Jammu	State University	2024-25 to 2028-29	MA, M.Com

Online UGC Approved in Jharkhand

For professional development, students in Jharkhand can enrol in courses in management, commerce, and information technology at Jharkhand State Open University and other private universities recognised by the UGC.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
Jharkhand State Open University	State Open Univ.	2024-25 to 2028-29	BBA, BCA, B.Com, M.Com
Arka Jain University	Private University	2024-25 to 2028-29	BBA, MBA

Online UGC Approved in Karnataka

Karnataka has top UGC recognized universities such as Karnataka State Open University and Jain University; they both can offer courses in various disciplines from BA to MBA, this also makes the degree suitable for people who are already in a job and also just starting out.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
Karnataka State Open University	State Open Univ.	2023-24 to 2029-30	BA, BBA, B.Com, MBA, MCA
Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana	Deemed University	2021-22 to 2026-27	BA, B.Sc, MBA, MA

Online UGC Approved in Kerala

Kerala's UGC-approved universities, such as Kerala University and the University of Calicut, offer top-notch professional, scientific, and artistic education while guaranteeing academic flexibility and recognition.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
University of Calicut	State University	2021-22 to 2025-26	BA, B.Com, MBA, MA
Kerala University	State University	2021-22 to 2025-26	BA, B.Com, MA, MSc
Sreenarayanaguru Open Univ.	State Open Univ.	2022-23 to 2026-27	BA, MA, MBA

Online UGC Approved in Madhya Pradesh

Universities in Madhya Pradesh, such as MP Bhoj Open University and Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, provide UGC-approved courses in management, commerce, and the arts that are ideal for students juggling work and school.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya	State University	2022-23 to 2026-27	MBA, MCA
MP Bhoj (Open) University	State Open Univ.	2023-24 to 2029-30	BA, B.Com, MBA, MCA, MA, PG Diplomas
Jiwaji University	State University	2021 to 2025-26	B.Com, MBA, MCA
Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya	State University	2025-2026	B.Com & BA

Online UGC Approved in Maharashtra

Maharashtra is home to well-known UGC-approved universities like Shivaji University and SNDT Women's University, which provide a variety of distance learning programs in the arts, business, and professions.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
Shivaji University	State University	2022-23 to 2026-27	BA, B.Com, MA
SNDT Women's University	State University	2021-22 to 2026-27	BA, B.Com, MA
Mahatma Gandhi Hindi Univ.	Central Univ.	2021-22 to 2026-27	MA, MBA
Yashwantrao Chavan Open University	State University	2023-24 to 2027-28	BA, B.Com
University of Mumbai	State University	2021-22, academic	BA, B.Com
International Institute for Population Sciences	Deemed University	2023 to 2027-28	M.A

Online UGC Approved in Meghalaya

Meghalaya has strong online and distance education through UGC Recognized universities including North Eastern Hill University. If you are looking for an UGC Recognized university in Meghalaya, these offer accredited programs in arts, social sciences, and management for career-oriented learners.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	No. of Programs	Approved Programs
University of Science & Technology	Private University	2023-24 to 2028-29	01	Master of Commerce

Online UGC Approved in Odisha

Odisha has high-quality online and distance education via UGC approved universities such as Sambalpur University. If you want to know about an UGC approved university in Odisha, these professional universities offer UGC accredited programs in commerce, arts, and management, so you will receive degree qualifications that add value to your professional qualifications.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	No. of Programs	Approved Programs
Sambalpur University	State University	2023-24 to 2027-28	03	B.Com, MA
Utkal University	State University	2024-25 to 2028-29	15	BA, B.Com, MBA, MA
Odisha State Open Univ.	State Open Univ.	2024-25 to 2028-29	04	MA
Sri Sri University	Private University	2024-25 to 2029-30	04	B.Com, MA
Fakir Mohan University	State University	2024-25 to 2029-30	10	MA
North Orissa University	State University	2025-26 to 2030	05	MA

Online UGC Approved in Puducherry

Puducherry offers quality online and distance education via UGC approved universities such as Pondicherry University. At UGC approved universities in Puducherry, you will find accredited online or distance programs in arts, commerce, and management, all representing recognized qualifications for the enhancement of your career.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	No. of Programs	Approved Programs
Pondicherry University	Central University	2021-22 to 2025-26	12	B.Com, MA, MBA

Online UGC Approved in Punjab

Punjab's UGC-approved universities, such as Guru Nanak Dev University and Punjabi University, assist students in pursuing accredited degrees through distance learning and concentrate on arts, commerce, and management programs.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
Punjabi University	State University	2023-24 to 2028-29	BA, B.Com, MA
Guru Nanak Dev University	State University	2023-24 to 2028-29	MA, M.Com
Chandigarh University	Private University	2021-22 to 2026	BA, B.Com, MA
LPU University	Private University	2021-22 to 2025-26	BA, B.Com, MBA, MA
Desh Bhagat University	-	2024-25 to 2029	BA & MA

Online UGC Approved in Rajasthan

Rajasthani students have options such as Vardhman Mahaveer Open University, which provides flexible programs for the arts and commerce streams that have been approved by the UGC.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
Vardhman Mahaveer Open University	State Open Univ.	2023-24 to 2029-30	BA, B.Com, MA
Suresh Gyan Vihar University	Private University	2021 to 2026	B.com, MA, BA
Jaipur National University	Private University	2024 to 2028-29	BA, B.Com, MA, MBA
Vivekananda Global University	Private University	2023-24 to 2027	B.com, MA, BA

Online UGC Approved in Tamil Nadu

Well-known UGC (University Grants Commission) recognized universities in the state of Tamil Nadu include Annamalai University and Tamil Nadu Open University, both of which offer distance education programs in the subjects of arts, science, and management.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
Tamil Nadu Open University	State Open Univ.	2021-22 to 2025-26	BA, B.Com, MBA, MA
Annamalai University	State University	2021-22 to 2025-26	MA, M.Sc, MBA

Online UGC Approved in Telangana

Distance learners can trust Osmania University and Kakatiya University in Telangana because they offer UGC-approved arts and management programs.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
Osmania University	State University	2024-25 to 2029-30	MA, M.Com
Kakatiya University	State University	2024-25 to 2029-30	MA, MBA

Online UGC Approved in Uttar Pradesh

For students looking for career flexibility, UP provides reputable options through Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University and CSJM University, which offer UGC-approved degrees in arts, commerce, and management.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University	State University	2023-24 to 2028-29	BA, MA
CSJM University, Kanpur	State University	2023-24 to 2028-29	BA, MA

Online UGC Approved in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand Open University, a UGC-approved institution that offers programs in the arts, commerce, and professional courses, provides high-quality distance education to students in Uttarakhand.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
Uttarakhand Open University	State Open Univ.	2023-24 to 2028-29	BA, MA, MBA

Online UGC Approved in West Bengal

One of the top UGC-approved distance learning institutions in West Bengal is Netaji Subhas Open University, which offers legitimate degrees in the social sciences, arts, and commerce.

University Name	Type	Recognition Period	Programs
Netaji Subhas Open University	State Open Univ.	2024-25 to 2028-29	BA, B.Com, MA
Rabindra Bharati University	State University	2021 to 2026	MA
University of Kalyani	State University	2021 to 2026	MA
University of North Bengal	State University	2022-23 to 2027	B.Com, MA

Conclusion

When selecting a distance education university that is UGC-approved, you want to make sure you are earning a degree that will be legitimate for employment and future study. Always check the university through the official portal and stay informed by watching UGC announcements, updates, and news.

Are you looking for help to pick the best UGC approved distance university in India? Get in touch with EduKyu today for expert guidance & free counselling!