Is a distance learning or open university degree valid for SBI Clerk?

The SBI notification does not mention distance or open learning separately. It asks for graduation in any discipline from a recognised university, or any equivalent qualification recognised as such by the Central Government. So the question is really whether your degree is from a recognised institution and programme.

What the UGC says

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has stated that degrees obtained through open and distance learning (ODL) and online modes from higher education institutions recognised by the UGC are treated as equivalent to degrees obtained through the conventional mode. This comes from the UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020, and the UGC reaffirmed it in a public notice in September 2022.

Checklist for distance-degree holders

• Was the university allowed by the UGC (through its Distance Education Bureau) to run that programme in that mode for your academic years? Recognition is given programme-wise and year-wise.
• Did you study at the university's own centres or approved study centres within its permitted territorial jurisdiction?
• Is your degree a standard degree title as per UGC's specification of degrees (BA, BCom, BSc and so on)?
• Do you have the mark sheets and the degree or provisional certificate showing the date of passing?

If the answer to these is yes, your degree should be accepted as a valid graduation. IGNOU and state open universities are common examples of recognised ODL providers.

When problems arise

Trouble usually comes from degrees issued by institutions or study centres that were not approved for that programme or year. SBI checks eligibility at the time of joining, not before the exam, so an unrecognised degree can lead to cancellation after you have cleared both exams.