About UGC-DEB Entitlement
The Distance Education Bureau (DEB) is a specialised bureau under the University Grants Commission (UGC) that regulates and oversees all higher education programmes offered through Open & Distance Learning (ODL) and Online (OL) modes in India. Universities seeking to offer such programmes must obtain an explicit entitlement from UGC-DEB.
MS Digital University has been granted entitlement by UGC-DEB to offer programmes in both ODL and OL modes. This entitlement is renewed and maintained in compliance with the UGC (ODL & Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020. All approved programmes are listed on the UGC-DEB portal at deb.ugc.ac.in.
Entitlement Scope
- Entitled to offer programmes through Online Learning (OL) mode
- Entitled to offer programmes through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode
- All OL & ODL programmes listed in the UGC-DEB portal (deb.ugc.ac.in)
- Compliant with UGC (ODL & Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020
- Students enrolled in OL/ODL programmes are eligible for Academic Bank of Credits (ABC)
- Programmes are recognised for employment in Central and State Government services
- Learners may study from any location within India and internationally
- Degrees and diplomas awarded carry the same national validity as conventional programmes
Online (OL) vs ODL — What's the Difference?
All learning, assessment, and interaction happens entirely through digital platforms. No physical attendance required. Ideal for working professionals and geographically dispersed learners.
- 100% Digital Delivery
- Live & Recorded Sessions
- Online Proctored Exams
- No Campus Visits Required
- 24/7 LMS Access
A blended approach combining self-study with limited in-person contact sessions. Students receive study materials and attend periodic counselling sessions at study centres.
- Self-Study + Contact Sessions
- Printed & Digital Materials
- Study Centre Network
- Flexible Examination Dates
- Academic Counselling Support
Degree Validity & Benefits
Government Jobs
Degrees from UGC-DEB entitled universities are valid for all Central and State Government employment, PSU recruitment, and public sector hiring.
Higher Studies
Graduates can pursue higher degrees, fellowships, and research programmes at recognised universities in India and abroad.
Professional Credentials
Credits earned via ABC (Academic Bank of Credits) are transferable across institutions under the NEP 2020 multiple entry-exit framework.
Global Recognition
UGC-recognised degrees are accepted by foreign universities for admission to higher education and by international employers.
Entitlement Details
- Issuing AuthorityUGC-DEB, New Delhi
- Modes ApprovedOL & ODL
- Effective Year2026–27
- Regulatory BasisUGC Regs. 2020
- Programme LevelsUG, PG, Diploma, Cert.
- Verification Portaldeb.ugc.ac.in