Distance education or Distance learning is an instructional system design where teachers and students may communicate at times, chosen by them. The exchange of information is through print or electronic or online media.

The technology used in distance education may be synchronous and asynchronous. Synchronous Technology follows a fixed schedule where all participants are present at the same time. The communication here may be through Telephone, Videoconferencing and Web conferencing. In case of asynchronous technology participants access their course material on line at their own schedule. The technology used here may though Audiocassettes, Print Materials, E-mail, Message Board Forums, Voice Mail or Videocassettes.

However, physical presence of a participant is required for taking the test. Since Internet plays major role in online learning, there are many secure exam software which can make online testing more effective.

An attempt is made here to list here various Educational Institutions offering courses in Distance Education in India The Distance Education Council (DEC) in India is responsible for the promotion and co ordination of the university and distance education system and the determination of its standards. It is highly recommended that the students enrolling into a Distance Education Program to confirm if the course offered by a particular university is recognized by Distance Education Council(DEC), New Delhi.