Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) Admission 2026 offers flexible distance learning opportunities through its well-established programs. With UGC-DEB approval and a NAAC ‘B’ Grade, KSOU welcomes applications from June 25, 2026, to September 30, 2026. The university charges an application fee of Rs. 500 for all programs, with UG course fees ranging from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 15,000 and PG courses between Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 25,000 per year. Students can apply through the official portal at www.ksoumysuru.ac.in, where merit-based admissions ensure quality education.
KSOU’s comprehensive distance education system serves over 100,000 students across Karnataka and beyond. The university offers support through 125+ study centers, providing quality study materials, weekend contact classes, and online learning resources. With 70% placement rates for job-oriented programs and well-regarded academic profile, KSOU maintains high academic standards while making higher education accessible to working professionals and traditional students alike. The admission process is straightforward, with results typically announced within 2-3 weeks of application closure.
Karnataka State Open University Admission 2026 — Quick Update
- UG Eligibility: Students must have completed 10+2 or equivalent with a minimum 45% aggregate (40% for SC/ST). Some programs like BCA require Mathematics at 12th level. All boards (CBSE/State/NIOS) accepted with valid certificates.
- PG Eligibility: Candidates need a relevant bachelor’s degree with minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST) from any UGC-recognized university. Work experience adds value for MBA and similar professional courses.
- Entrance Exam: KSOU follows direct admission based on merit for most programs. However, MBA and MCA aspirants may need to appear for KMAT or equivalent entrance tests. Department-specific interviews conducted for specialized courses.
- Admission Criteria: Merit-based selections considering previous academic performance. First-come-first-served basis for most courses. Special weightage given to in-service candidates and sports achievements for relevant programs.
- Average Fee Structure: UG programs range from ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 per year. PG courses cost between ₹12,000 to ₹25,000 annually. Professional courses like MBA have higher fees up to ₹40,000 per year.
- Application Process: Online applications through official portal from June 25 to September 30, 2025. Application fee is ₹500 for General/OBC and ₹300 for SC/ST candidates. Document verification at regional centers.
- Approvals & Accreditations: Recognized by UGC-DEB, maintaining NAAC ‘B++’ grade. Programs approved by regulatory bodies including AICTE for management courses. Strong quality assurance mechanisms in place.
- Reservation Policy: Following Karnataka state reservation norms – SC (15%), ST (3%), OBC (32%). Additional quotas for differently-abled (3%), sports (2%), and defense personnel (1%).
- Placement Highlights: Dedicated placement cell connecting students with 100+ companies. Recent recruiters include TCS, Wipro, and Karnataka Bank. Average salary package ranges from ₹3.2 to 4.8 LPA for professional courses.
Karnataka State Open University Admission Popular Courses
- BA in Economics: Requires 45% in Class 12th with English, Economics/Mathematics/Commerce. Duration: 3 years. Program fee: Rs. 12,000 per year. Strong focus on micro/macroeconomics, statistics, and development economics.
- B.Com with Banking: Entry needs 50% in Class 12th with Accounts, Business Studies, Economics/Mathematics. 3-year duration. Annual fee: Rs. 15,000. Comprehensive coverage of banking operations and financial markets.
- MA in Public Administration: Candidates need 50% in graduation (any stream). 2-year program priced at Rs. 18,000 annually. Covers governance, policy analysis, and administrative theory.
- MSc in Information Technology: Requires 55% in BCA/BSc (CS/IT/Mathematics). 2-year duration, fee: Rs. 25,000 per year. Advanced programming, networking, and database management.
- MCom in Finance: Minimum 50% in BCom/BBA/BAF. Program spans 2 years, costs Rs. 20,000 annually. Specialized focus on financial management and investment analysis.
- Diploma in Library Science: Open to Class 12th pass (45%) students. 1-year program with Rs. 10,000 fee. Covers library management, cataloging, and information services.
- PG Diploma in Computer Applications: Graduates with 50% marks eligible. 1-year duration, fee: Rs. 15,000. Practical training in programming, web development, and system analysis.
About Karnataka State Open University Admission
Established in 1996, Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) stands as a premier distance education institution in Mysuru, Karnataka. The university holds NAAC ‘B++’ Grade and maintains full UGC-DEB approval for its distance education programs. With 27 active departments spanning arts, commerce, education, and science streams, KSOU has emerged as a trusted name in flexible learning. The university’s robust research ecosystem supports over 200 doctoral candidates annually, while its extensive network of 85+ study centers across Karnataka ensures accessible education for all.
KSOU’s commitment to quality education is reflected in its modern learning management system, comprehensive e-resources, and regular academic workshops. The university maintains strong industry partnerships with over 40 organizations, offering students valuable exposure through webinars and virtual training sessions. Notable features include merit-based scholarships up to Rs. 25,000, specialized career guidance cell, and a digital library with 50,000+ e-resources. The institution’s placement initiatives have successfully connected graduates with leading employers, achieving 65% placement rates for eligible candidates in various sectors including IT, banking, and education.
Karnataka State Open University Admission UG
KSOU offers diverse undergraduate programs through distance learning, making quality education accessible to students across Karnataka. The admission process for 2026 is merit-based, with applications accepted from June 25, 2025, to September 30, 2025. Here are the key undergraduate programs available:
| Course Name | Duration | Selection Criteria | Fee Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| BA (Arts) | 3 years | Merit-based (12th marks) | ₹6,500 – ₹8,000 per year |
| B.Com | 3 years | Direct admission (12th pass) | ₹7,000 – ₹8,500 per year |
| BBA | 3 years | Merit-based (12th marks) | ₹8,500 – ₹10,000 per year |
| BSc | 3 years | Merit-based (12th PCM/B) | ₹7,500 – ₹9,000 per year |
| BCA | 3 years | Direct admission (12th pass) | ₹9,000 – ₹11,000 per year |
| BA (Journalism) | 3 years | Merit-based (12th marks) | ₹7,500 – ₹9,000 per year |
| BSW | 3 years | Direct admission (12th pass) | ₹7,000 – ₹8,500 per year |
All programs follow a semester system with flexible examination schedules. Students receive comprehensive study materials and access to digital learning resources. Merit-based scholarships are available for eligible candidates.
Karnataka State Open University Admission Popular UG Course Details
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
- Choose from combinations like History-Economics-Political Science or Sociology-Psychology-English. Perfect for students interested in humanities and social sciences.
- Eligibility: 10+2 or equivalent with minimum 35% marks from any recognized board. No age restriction for admission.
- Program duration is 3 years with flexible examination schedule. Complete within maximum 6 years at your own pace.
- Study material provided in both English and Kannada. Course fee: Rs. 12,000-15,000 per year including study materials.
- Regular assignments and internal assessments contribute 30% to final grades. Term-end examinations held twice yearly.
Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)
- Comprehensive coverage of accounting, business law, economics, taxation, and corporate finance. Industry-aligned curriculum updated regularly.
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Commerce or any stream with 40% marks. Mathematics at 10+2 level recommended but not mandatory.
- Three-year program divided into 6 semesters. Annual fee: Rs. 13,500-16,500 including practical training modules.
- Specializations available in Banking, Accounting, and Taxation from second year onwards.
- Strong focus on practical knowledge through case studies and virtual corporate exposure.
Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)
- Modern curriculum covering programming languages, database management, web development, and software engineering principles.
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Mathematics or Computer Science with minimum 45% marks. Basic computer knowledge essential.
- Three-year program with hands-on practical training. Program fee: Rs. 15,000-18,000 per year including lab access.
- Regular programming assignments and projects to build practical skills. Virtual lab sessions available.
- Industry-relevant skills development through workshops and optional certification programs.
Karnataka State Open University Admission Distance Learning PG
KSOU offers diverse postgraduate programs designed for working professionals and distance learners. The university provides comprehensive study materials, online support, and flexible examination schedules. Here’s a detailed overview of popular PG courses available for 2026 admission:
| Course Name | Duration | Fee Range (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Master of Commerce (M.Com) | 2 Years | ₹15,000 – ₹18,000 |
| Master of Arts (MA) in English | 2 Years | ₹12,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Master of Science (MSc) in Mathematics | 2 Years | ₹16,000 – ₹19,000 |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | 2 Years | ₹25,000 – ₹30,000 |
| Master of Library Science (MLISc) | 2 Years | ₹14,000 – ₹17,000 |
Students can choose from these professionally-oriented programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical insights. The fee structure includes study materials, online access, and examination charges. Additional costs may apply for practical sessions and project work. Candidates should verify the latest fee details from the official university website before applying.
Karnataka State Open University Admission PG Course Details
MA in English Literature: A comprehensive program exploring British, American, and Indian literature along with critical theory and research methodology. Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with 45% marks. Duration: 2 years. Fee: Rs. 15,000 per year. Selection is merit-based on graduation marks. The course includes virtual lectures, study materials, and assignments with flexible exam schedules.
Master of Commerce (M.Com): Advanced study of financial accounting, business economics, taxation, and corporate law. Perfect for working professionals seeking career advancement. Eligibility: B.Com/BBA/BA Economics with 50% marks. Duration: 2 years. Fee: Rs. 16,500 per year. Direct admission based on previous academic performance.
MSc in Information Technology: Industry-aligned curriculum covering advanced programming, database management, artificial intelligence, and software engineering. Eligibility: BSc IT/Computer Science/BCA with 50% marks. Duration: 2 years. Fee: Rs. 22,000 per year. Merit-based admission with preference to relevant bachelor’s degree holders.
MA in Public Administration: Focuses on governance, policy analysis, public management, and administrative theory. Ideal for civil service aspirants and government employees. Eligibility: Any bachelor’s degree with 45% marks. Duration: 2 years. Fee: Rs. 14,500 per year. Direct admission through application process.
Master of Social Work (MSW): Comprehensive program covering community development, counseling, social research, and NGO management. Includes field work components. Eligibility: Graduate degree with 45% marks in any discipline. Duration: 2 years. Fee: Rs. 17,000 per year. Selection through merit and personal interview.
Karnataka State Open University Admission Diploma
- KSOU offers several diploma programs including Diploma in Computer Applications (DCA) and Diploma in Business Management (DBM). Eligibility requires 35% in 10+2 from any recognized board. Programs run for 12 months with fees ranging from ₹8,000 to ₹15,000. Admission is through direct entry based on qualifying marks.
- The university’s Diploma in Library and Information Science (D.Lib) and Diploma in Creative Writing are popular choices for skill enhancement. These one-year programs need 40% in 10+2. The fee structure ranges from ₹10,000 to ₹18,000, with merit-based selection from qualifying examination scores.
- All diploma programs include practical training and industry exposure through KSOU’s learning management system. Students can access study materials online and attend contact sessions at designated study centers. Application deadline: September 30, 2025. Selection is primarily through direct admission with verification of eligibility criteria.
Karnataka State Open University Admission PG Diploma
PG Diploma in Business Management (PGDBM): A comprehensive one-year program designed for graduates seeking advanced business knowledge. Covers strategic management, marketing, finance, and HR concepts. Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks. Duration: 1 year. Fee: Rs. 15,000. Selection through merit-based admission considering graduation marks and work experience. Weekend contact classes available at study centers.
PG Diploma in Computer Applications (PGDCA): Industry-aligned program focusing on modern programming languages, database management, and web development. Perfect for career transition into IT sector. Eligibility: Any graduate with 45% marks. Duration: 1 year. Fee: Rs. 18,000. Direct admission based on qualifying degree marks. Includes practical sessions and project work.
PG Diploma in Mass Communication (PGDMC): Comprehensive program covering journalism, digital media, public relations, and content creation. Features industry workshops and media project work. Eligibility: Graduate in any discipline with 50% marks. Duration: 1 year. Fee: Rs. 16,500. Merit-based admission with preference to relevant work experience. Includes hands-on training in media labs.
PG Diploma in Financial Management (PGDFM): Specialized course covering investment analysis, portfolio management, and financial planning. Ideal for finance professionals seeking career advancement. Eligibility: Commerce/Business graduates with 45% marks. Duration: 1 year. Fee: Rs. 17,000. Direct admission based on academic performance. Includes case studies and financial modeling workshops.
Karnataka State Open University Admission Certificate
- KSOU offers practical certificate programs including Business Communication (₹3,500), Computer Applications (₹4,000), Digital Marketing (₹5,000), and Tourism Management (₹3,800). Basic eligibility requires 33% in 10+2 or equivalent. Most courses have 6-month duration with flexible exam schedules.
- Admission process is merit-based with direct enrollment available for most certificate courses. Students must submit their application through the official portal between June 25, 2025 and September 30, 2025. The selection criteria focuses on academic performance in qualifying exams.
- Certificate programs feature practical training modules with industry-oriented curriculum. Students get access to KSOU’s digital learning resources and virtual classrooms. Course fees range from ₹3,500 to ₹5,500 with additional exam fees payable separately.
Karnataka State Open University Admission Suggestions for Students
- Before applying, thoroughly review program eligibility criteria and verify that your previous qualifications match the requirements. Download the program handbook from the official portal to understand the complete syllabus and assessment pattern.
- Plan your finances well in advance – consider both the program fee (₹15,000-45,000) and additional costs like study materials and exam fees. The university offers installment options and scholarships for eligible students from economically weaker sections.
- Check all program approvals carefully – ensure your chosen course has valid UGC-DEB recognition. This is crucial for future employment and higher education opportunities. Save digital copies of approval certificates from the university website.
- Create a structured study schedule that balances work/other commitments with academic requirements. Utilize the university’s digital learning resources, virtual libraries, and recorded lectures effectively. Join study groups with fellow distance learners for better preparation.