Guide
Yes, when the university is approved by UGC-DEB to offer that program online. Under UGC rules, such a degree is treated as equivalent to a regular degree. Here is what that means for jobs and further study, and how to check a university before you enrol.
What it counts for
Jobs
Most recruitment notifications ask for a degree from a recognised university. An approved online degree meets that requirement.
Study
You can use an approved online degree to apply for a master's degree, a PG diploma or entrance exams, like a regular degree.
Abroad
Credential evaluators such as WES assess Indian degrees from recognised universities. Rules differ by country and employer.
Before you enrol
UGC-DEB publishes the list of universities entitled to offer online programs on its website, deb.ugc.ac.in, for each academic year.
Approval is given program by program and year by year. Make sure your exact program is listed for the year you join.
To offer online programs, a university needs a NAAC score of at least 3.26, or a place in the NIRF top 100 for universities, among other conditions.
Ask your counsellor to show you the approval. At NeoSkill we show approvals on every university page and walk you through them.
Know the limits
Online degrees from approved universities carry the same weight as regular degrees for most purposes. A few situations need care: some professional courses, such as medicine, nursing and law, cannot be studied online; some recruiters and foreign bodies set their own rules; and a degree from a university that was not approved for your program or year may not be accepted.
Questions students ask
Yes, when it comes from a university approved by UGC-DEB to offer that program online. The UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020 treat such degrees as equivalent to degrees earned in the regular mode.
Most government recruitment asks for a degree from a recognised university, which an approved online degree meets. Some posts ask for specific subjects or marks, so read the eligibility in each notification.
Yes. You can apply for higher studies with an approved online degree. Each university sets its own admission rules, such as minimum marks or entrance exams.
Credential evaluators such as WES assess Indian degrees from recognised universities. Rules differ by country and employer, so check with the body in the country you plan to move to.
Check the list of entitled universities on the UGC-DEB website, deb.ugc.ac.in, for the year you join. Make sure your exact program is listed.
Practice varies by university. Ask your counsellor to show you a sample certificate from the university you choose.
