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With Online and Distance Learning courses getting a huge boost due to the COVID-19 pandemic, students have started showing widespread interest in these courses. However, UGC has asked candidates to ensure that the courses are in adherence to UGC norms before enrolling.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a checklist for students who are looking to enrol in an Online and Distance Learning (OLD) programme. The commission has asked students to ensure that the course to which they are seeking enrolment complies with the directives issued by the UGC. Also, according to the new guidelines, the top 100 universities in India will be allowed to begin distance learning and online courses without seeking prior permission. The new guidelines are going to be a part of an integrated model of education of online and distance mode.
Top 100 universities as per the NIRF or having minimum 3.26 grade from NAAC will be allowed to start online programmes without any prior permission but it has to be in accordance with the regulations.
UGC has asked students to ensure that they check all the important factors associated with the course before taking admission. Students have been asked to check that all of the activities of the ODL course are within the territorial jurisdiction of UGC.
Also Read:Career Options after Distance Learning Courses - Check Placements Details
Things to Check Before Enrolling in an ODL Course
The information was released in a notice released by the commission. Rajish Jain, the Secretary of UGC, request the students to check the following factors before taking admission to a distance learning course.
- The minimum duration of the course
- Qualification for the course
- Nomenclature of the degree/course
- Admission Process
- Counselling Process
- Programme Delivery
- Examinations etc.
Students must also note that UGC had revised the timelines of the current academic session for ODL courses. The period has been kept as 12 months and it will start from September to October 2020 and February to March 2021.
All of the factors must adhere to the norms issued by the UGC for distance learning universities in India. Students have been asked to take precautions before enrolling in an ODL course.
Also Read:Exam Process for Distance Learning Courses
UGC Guidelines on Distance Learning Admissions
UGC has issued strict guidelines for institutes and universities offering distance education in India. It has asked HEIs to ensure that the admission process is conducted in a transparent manner and from the headquarter of the institutions.
HEIs also have been asked to refrain from franchising with any private coaching institutes for conducting admissions or delivering the course. UGC has warned the universities of strict punitive action in case any discrepancy is observed by a student.
Students must also ensure that they are not enrolling in a distance learning course banned by UGC.
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