
DEB ID Card: What It Is, How to Create It, Purpose, and FAQs
The DEB ID Card is an identity card that has been developed for the purpose of helping students with online education throughout the country of India. DEB is an abbreviation for Distance Education Bureau, which is part of the University Grants Commission (UGC). In short Distance Education Bureau manages and approves online and distance learning programs. The DEB ID Card assists students studying in online and distance education to prove their identity. In this blog, we will explain the DEB ID Card, how to make it, its objective and uses, and answer popular questions.
What is a DEB ID Card?
A DEB ID Card is a student identification card issued to students who are registered in UGC-DEB recognised programmes. The ID Card is the same ID used in college. It includes the student’s name, photo, enrolment number, course name, and the name of the university. The DEB ID card is important for a student to get services, give exams, and be recognized as a student of the university.
List of Objectives of the DEB ID Card
The DEB ID Card has been created for several important reasons:
1. Verification of Student Identity
It verifies the identity of students during examinations and other academic processes. It serves as valid evidence that students are registered students of an approved program.
2. Digital Integration
The DEB ID enables universities and the UGC to engage with student data via a digital interface. This can allow universities and the UGC to complete monitoring of student progression.
3. Transparency
The ID card generates transparency (especially in the area of distance education) as it verifies that only verified students participate in courses and examinations.
4. Access to Services
Students with a DEB ID card can easily access the university’s portal, accessible to course materials, exam portals, and the university’s student support services.
How to Create a DEB ID Card?
Obtaining a DEB ID Card is a fairly straightforward process, which typically occurs after you gain admission into a distance or online programme. The process is as follows:
Step 1 – Admission
To get a DEB ID card, the first step is to take admission in a UGC-DEB-approved and recognized university for an online or distance education programme.
Step 2 – Required Documents
After admission, the university will usually ask you for the following documents:
- A passport-size photo
- Identity proof (eg, Aadhaar card, PAN card, etc.)
- Educational certificates or degrees.
- A digital or scanned signature.
Step 3 – Verification by the University
After submission of documents and information to the university, they will verify your information and documents, and put your information into the student records.
Step 4 – DEB ID Card Generated
Once verification is done by the university, they will then issue you the DEB ID card, which will either be a physical card or a downloadable card in a digital format.
Step 5 – Use the DEB ID card
After receiving the card, you can now use the card for attending online classes, studying, exams, the university portal, etc.
What Information Does the DEB ID Card Contain?
Below is a list of common information printed on a DEB ID Card:
Field | Description |
---|---|
Student Name | Full legal name of the student |
Enrollment Number | Unique ID given by the university |
University/Institute Name | Name of the UGC-DEB-approved university |
Course Name | Name of the program (example: MBA, BBA) |
Course Duration | Start and end date of the course |
Student Photo | Passport-size photo |
Signature | Scanned or digital signature of the student |
QR Code or Barcode (optional) | Used for digital verification |
What is the purpose of the DEB ID Card?

The primary reason for requiring a DEB ID Card is to help students engaged in online and distance learning to prove their identity. It can also create a more secure and digital education system. Here are some primary examples of use:
- Identity Proof
The DEB ID Card acts as a valid identity document in exams and university events.
- Access to University Portals
Some online classes and learning materials can only be accessed using a DEB ID Card.
- Government Schemes and Scholarships
If applying for any education-related benefit from the government, you may need to show a DEB ID Card.
- Placement Support
Many of the universities will request your DEB ID if applying for job placements or internships.
- Remote Exams
If you are doing an online exam from home, the DEB ID will likely be used for identification.
Who Needs a DEB ID Card?
The following students will need a DEB ID card:
- Students registered in UGC-DEB recognized online or distance learning courses.
- Learners studying UG, PG, diploma, or certificate courses in the distance mode.
- Learners using digital education platforms run by UGC recognized institutions.
Benefits of Having a DEB ID Card
Here is the list of the benefits of having a DEB ID card:
Benefit | Explanation |
---|---|
Official Student Identity | Confirms you are a registered distance learner |
Recognized Nationally | Accepted across India by UGC-approved institutes |
Easy to Use | Helps in accessing university services easily |
Academic Record Tracking | Keeps your learning and exam records safe |
Required for Placements and Exams | Helps in getting jobs, internships, and taking exams |
Is the DEB ID Card Mandatory?
Yes, it is required for most students in online or distance learning programs. It is recognized as the official identity card for exams, classes, and student services.
Is the DEB ID Card the Same as the ABC ID?
No, they are two different cards:
- The DEB ID card is a form of identity to prove you are a student in online/distance education.
- ABC ID (Academic Bank of Credits ID) is used in connection with storing your academic credits according to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Both are important, but they serve a different purpose.
Conclusion
The DEB ID Card is an important document for any student in a distance education or online program. It helps identify you, gives you access to digital services, and is usually required for exams, job placement, and scholarships. If you are thinking of studying through an online or distance learning programme in India, then make sure your university gives you a DEB ID Card. It is important to keep it safe and use it whenever required throughout your education.
FAQs:
What is a DEB ID Card?
A DEB ID Card is the identity card issued to students who are registered in online or distance education course programs that are approved by the UGC-DEB.
How do I obtain my DEB ID Card?
You can get it from your university once you are registered in a course and after submitting the proper documentation.
Is the DEB ID Card required for online programs?
Yes, most universities will require it for taking exams, online classes, and obtaining student services.
Can I use my DEB ID to apply for scholarships?
Yes, it will help you obtain government scholarships or education schemes for distance learners.
What should I do if there is an error on my DEB ID Card?
Well, you should contact your university (support team) and request the change.