Sikkim Manipal University, Gangtok is incorporated under the State Legislative Act (Act IX of 1995) of the Government of Sikkim. It is recognised by UGC under section 2(f) of UGC Act, 1956.

It is recognised by UGC to continue offering programmes through Open & Distance Learning (ODL) mode for the session 2016-2017 vide F. No. UGC/DEB-II/SMU/Recog./2015 Vol. V of the University Grants Commission dated 21/03/2016.

SMU-DE has won the following awards and recognitions:

ASSOCHAM Award: Best University in Online and Distance Learning 2014

The Associated Chambers of Commerce & Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) has recognised it at the National Education Excellence Awards 2014 for its valuable contribution towards innovation and excellence in the field of Distance Education.
Sikkim Manipal University is awarded with the prize of Best University in Distance Education.

CSR Award for Top Distance Learning Institute India- 2013 Sikkim Manipal University - Distance Education has been recognised as the ‘Top Distance Learning Institute’ for 3 Consecutive years since 2011.

Silicon India has ranked SMU-DE as the ‘Number One Institute for MBA in Distance Learning’.

Winner of the ICT Award
SMU-DE was conferred the 'Digital Learning ICT Enabled University of the year for its new technology infused learning system EduNxt at the 5th e-India 2009 Awards Conference and Exhibition organised by Centre for Science, Development and Media Studies in Hyderabad on August 26, 2009.