A DEB ID is a unique ID that UGC's Distance Education Bureau requires every learner to create before taking admission in an Open and Distance Learning (ODL) or online programme. It helps confirm that you are enrolling in a programme offered by a recognised institution. You need an ABC ID first, then you generate the DEB ID on the DEB portal.
Last updated: October 2026
What is a DEB ID?
The Distance Education Bureau describes the DEB ID as a unique ID that has to be created by the learner who wishes to take admission in an ODL or online programme. It links you to the UGC-DEB system so that your enrolment can be verified against recognised programmes. A UGC public notice dated 11 November 2024 made the DEB ID mandatory for learners enrolling in ODL and online programmes from academic year 2024-25.
Who needs a DEB ID?
Anyone seeking admission to a distance or online programme offered by a recognised higher education institution needs one before enrolment. If you are applying to a regular, on-campus programme, this ID is not the requirement. Check with the university which ID it asks for in your case.
DEB ID and ABC ID: what is the difference?
The ABC ID belongs to the Academic Bank of Credits, a system that stores your academic credits. The DEB ID sits on the UGC-DEB portal and is specific to ODL and online admissions. The DEB portal says students create the ABC ID first, which they can do through a DigiLocker account, and then use it to generate the DEB ID. Our separate guide explains what an ABC ID is and how to create it on DigiLocker.
How to create your DEB ID: step by step
Create your ABC ID through DigiLocker. Make sure your name, date of birth and gender match your records.
If something does not match, raise a request on the ABC support ticket system at support.abc.gov.in or call the ABC helpline listed there, and get it corrected first.
Visit the UGC Distance Education Bureau website and open the student DEB ID page.
Enter the details asked, such as your ABC ID, name as per Aadhaar, birth year, gender and the authentication details required, then complete the captcha.
Accept the declaration that you have reviewed the recognised programmes, and submit.
Save or download your DEB ID and keep it ready for the admission form.
If you face a technical problem on the DEB portal, the contact number listed on the student page is the one to use.
Common problems and how to avoid them
Name or date of birth mismatch: fix it in the ABC record before applying for the DEB ID.
Doing it at the last minute: complete the ABC and DEB steps before the admission deadline, not on the final day.
Assuming the ID proves the university is recognised: it does not. Verify the institution and programme separately on the DEB recognition lists.
Giving your DEB ID to an agent: keep your login details to yourself and apply directly on the official portals.
After the DEB ID: check the university
The DEB ID is only one step. Before paying fees, confirm that the university and your programme are on the UGC-DEB recognised list. We explain what recognition means in is an online degree valid in India, and the difference between the two modes in distance education vs online education.
When you are ready to compare programmes, look at online BBA, online MCA or UGC-entitled online MBA colleges.
Frequently asked questions
What is DEB ID full form?
DEB stands for Distance Education Bureau, the UGC body that regulates open, distance and online education. The DEB ID is the learner's unique ID on its portal.
Is DEB ID mandatory for online degree admission?
Yes. UGC's public notice dated 11 November 2024 made it mandatory for learners enrolling in ODL and online programmes from academic year 2024-25.
Do I need an ABC ID to create a DEB ID?
Yes. The DEB portal asks learners to create an ABC ID first, which can be done through DigiLocker, and then use it to generate the DEB ID.
Does DEB ID guarantee my university is approved?
No. Verify the institution and your specific programme in the recognition lists on the DEB website before you pay any fee.
Get personalised college recommendations based on your profile.
Compare placements, cut-offs, and fees across 400+ colleges — for free.
Explore Colleges →