Original planning guide · Reviewed 16 October 2026
Identify the awarding university
A platform can market degrees from several institutions. Find the university named on the programme page and check that the same institution appears in the prospectus, application and eventual admission documents. For example, the Online Manipal platform includes different universities; a listing for Manipal University Jaipur should be compared as that specific institution. Do not substitute the platform name for the awarding institution.
Use the exact programme and mode
Write down the full award name, specialisation and delivery mode. Online and open-and-distance learning are distinct modes in official records. Similarly, a named specialisation may have different prerequisites or a different fee from the general programme. Keep the programme code if one is used. IGNOU’s MBAOL is an example of why checking a code can be useful.
Check the relevant session
Use UGC-DEB’s official resources to verify the institution and programme for the intended mode and admission session. A historical entitlement is not a substitute for the entry relevant to your application. If a record is unclear, request written clarification through the institution’s official channel before paying. Keep a copy or reference to the record and the date you checked it.
Check the next destination too
If your goal is a specific job, professional licence or further degree, confirm the receiving organisation’s eligibility rules independently. Recognition of an award does not automatically settle every employer, professional-body or university requirement. Ask a precise question with the awarding institution, programme, mode and duration included. Avoid relying only on a broad statement that a degree works everywhere.
Keep a decision folder
Save the official programme page, current prospectus, itemised quote and refund terms together. Add the written answer to any condition that matters to you, such as mathematical prerequisites or exam arrangements. This makes it easier to spot a mismatch between the advertised option and the application you are completing. FindMyDegree links to sources to help this process; it does not issue recognition or admission decisions.