Tamil Nadu Open University (TNOU) Admission 2026 offers flexible distance education opportunities for students seeking quality higher education. The university welcomes applications from 25 June 2026 to 30 September 2026 with an application fee of Rs. 500. TNOU provides affordable education with UG programs starting at Rs. 15,000-25,000 per year and PG programs at Rs. 20,000-35,000 per year. The university holds prestigious UGC-DEB approval and maintains a strong track record with over 75% placement rates for eligible candidates.
Admissions are primarily merit-based, evaluating past academic performance. Students can apply through the official portal at www.tnou.ac.in, with options for both online and offline application submission. The university offers comprehensive study materials, virtual learning resources, and personal contact programs. Merit lists are typically released within 2-3 weeks of application closure, followed by counseling rounds for specific programs. With 6 regional centers and 500+ study centers across Tamil Nadu, TNOU ensures accessible education for all.
Tamil Nadu Open University Admission 2026 — Quick Update
- UG Eligibility: Candidates must have completed 10+2 or equivalent with a minimum 45% aggregate (40% for SC/ST). Key subjects required vary by program. Age relaxation available for working professionals seeking distance education.
- PG Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in relevant discipline with minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST). Some programs may require specific subject combinations or work experience. Bridge courses available for non-subject graduates.
- No Entrance Exam Required: TNOU follows a merit-based admission process for most programs. Direct admission based on qualifying exam marks. However, some professional courses may require a basic entrance assessment.
- Admission Criteria: Merit-based selection considering academic performance in qualifying exams. Additional weightage for relevant work experience. First-come-first-served basis for programs with limited seats.
- Average Program Fees: UG courses range from ₹15,000 to ₹30,000 per year. PG programs cost between ₹20,000 to ₹40,000 annually. Flexible payment options and scholarship schemes available for eligible students.
- Application Process: Online applications open from June 25, 2025, to September 30, 2025. Registration fee of ₹300 for general category. Complete verification and document submission within specified timeline.
- Accreditations & Recognition: UGC-DEB approved institution. Programs recognized by AICTE, DEC, and NAAC ‘B’ Grade. International collaborations enhance program quality and student opportunities.
- Reservation Policy: 69% reservation following Tamil Nadu government norms – BC (26.5%), MBC (20%), SC (18%), and ST (1%). Additional quotes for differently-abled and ex-servicemen categories.
- Placement Support: Dedicated career guidance cell with 60% average placement rate. Top recruiters include TCS, Wipro, and government sectors. Average package ranges from ₹3.5 to 6 LPA for technical courses.
Tamil Nadu Open University Admission Popular Course
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA): Entry requires 45% in Class 12 (Commerce/Math/Economics). 3-year duration with flexible study options. Program fee: Rs. 15,000 per year. Strong focus on management fundamentals and business analytics.
- BA English Literature: Open to students with 40% in Class 12 (any stream with English). 3-year program covering British, American, and Indian literature. Annual fee: Rs. 12,000. Perfect for aspiring writers and teachers.
- Master of Commerce (M.Com): Requires 50% in B.Com/BBA/related degree. 2-year duration with specialization options in Finance/Banking. Program fee: Rs. 20,000 per year. Advanced accounting and finance focus.
- MA Public Administration: Bachelor’s degree with 45% marks required. 2-year course covering governance and policy studies. Total fee: Rs. 18,000 per year. Ideal for civil service aspirants.
- MSc Information Technology: Graduate with 50% in Computer Science/IT/Mathematics. 2-year program with hands-on practical training. Course fee: Rs. 25,000 annually. Industry-aligned curriculum.
- Diploma in Early Childhood Care: Class 12 pass with 40% marks required. 1-year duration with practical training components. Program fee: Rs. 10,000. Perfect for preschool teaching careers.
- PG Diploma in Journalism: Any graduate with 45% marks eligible. 1-year program covering digital and print media. Total fee: Rs. 15,000. Includes practical media projects and internships.
About Tamil Nadu Open University Admission
Tamil Nadu Open University (TNOU), established in 2002, stands as a premier distance education institution in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The university holds NAAC ‘B++’ Grade and operates under the steadfast approval of the Distance Education Bureau (DEB-UGC). With its main campus in Chennai and 14 regional centers across Tamil Nadu, TNOU serves over 100,000 students through 150+ study centers. The university offers comprehensive academic support through a network of 12 schools of study, covering disciplines from humanities to technical education.
The university’s commitment to quality education is evident through its robust digital infrastructure, including a state-of-the-art Learning Management System (LMS) and virtual classrooms. TNOU maintains strong industry collaborations with over 50 corporate partners and offers specialized skill development programs. The institution provides significant financial support through various scholarship schemes, benefiting more than 15,000 students annually. With a placement cell actively connecting students to opportunities, TNOU maintains an impressive 70% placement rate for eligible candidates. The university’s research initiatives include 25 ongoing projects and numerous publications in international journals, establishing its position as a leading distance education provider in South India.
Tamil Nadu Open University Admission UG
TNOU offers diverse undergraduate programs through distance learning mode, making quality education accessible to working professionals and students across Tamil Nadu. Here’s a comprehensive overview of popular UG courses available for admission 2026:
| Course Name | Duration | Selection Criteria | Fee Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| BA Tamil Language & Literature | 3 years | Merit-based (12th marks) | ₹12,000 – ₹15,000 per year |
| BA English Literature | 3 years | Direct admission | ₹13,500 – ₹16,500 per year |
| BCom General | 3 years | Merit-based (12th marks) | ₹15,000 – ₹18,000 per year |
| BBA Business Administration | 3 years | Direct admission | ₹16,500 – ₹19,500 per year |
| BSc Computer Science | 3 years | Merit-based (12th marks) | ₹18,000 – ₹21,000 per year |
| BSc Mathematics | 3 years | Direct admission | ₹14,000 – ₹17,000 per year |
| BA History | 3 years | Merit-based (12th marks) | ₹12,500 – ₹15,500 per year |
Students can apply for these programs through the university portal from June 25, 2025 to September 30, 2025. All courses are UGC-DEB approved and follow semester-based evaluation system with flexible examination schedules.
Tamil Nadu Open University Admission Popular UG Course Details
Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)
- A comprehensive three-year program focusing on computer programming, software development, database management, and networking fundamentals. Perfect for aspiring IT professionals.
- Eligibility: 10+2 pass with minimum 45% marks (40% for SC/ST). Mathematics as a subject at 10+2 level is mandatory.
- Course includes practical training in Python, Java, C++, web development, and mobile app creation. Students get hands-on experience with current technologies.
- Fee structure: Rs. 15,000-18,000 per year. Additional exam fees of Rs. 1,200 per semester apply.
- Flexible learning with monthly contact classes and access to digital study materials through TNOU’s learning management system.
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
- Three-year management program covering business fundamentals, marketing, finance, human resources, and entrepreneurship development.
- Eligibility: 10+2 pass in any stream with minimum 40% marks (35% for SC/ST candidates).
- Curriculum includes case studies, business simulations, and industry projects to develop practical management skills.
- Annual fee: Rs. 12,000-15,000. Additional costs include study materials and examination fees.
- Regular workshops and webinars with industry experts enhance learning experience and career prospects.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) English
- Three-year program offering comprehensive study of English literature, language, and communication skills.
- Eligibility requirement: 10+2 pass with 40% marks (35% for reserved categories). No specific subject restrictions.
- Covers British, American, and Indian literature, along with creative writing and business communication modules.
- Program fee: Rs. 8,000-10,000 annually. Includes study materials and basic examination charges.
- Regular assignments and projects help develop critical thinking and analytical writing abilities.
Tamil Nadu Open University Admission PG
Tamil Nadu Open University offers diverse postgraduate programs designed for working professionals and distance learners. These programs combine academic excellence with flexible learning schedules, making higher education accessible to all. Here’s a comprehensive overview of popular PG courses:
| Course Name | Duration | Fee Range (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | 2 Years | ₹15,000 – ₹18,000 |
| Master of Computer Applications (MCA) | 2 Years | ₹12,000 – ₹15,000 |
| MA English Literature | 2 Years | ₹8,000 – ₹10,000 |
| MSc Information Technology | 2 Years | ₹10,000 – ₹12,000 |
| MA Public Administration | 2 Years | ₹8,000 – ₹10,000 |
All PG programs include comprehensive study materials, virtual learning support, and practical training components where applicable. Students can access course content through the university’s learning management system and attend contact classes at designated study centers. Application window for 2026 admission: July 15, 2025 to September 30, 2025.
Tamil Nadu Open University Admission PG Course Details
M.A. English Literature offers an in-depth study of British, American, and Indian literature through distance mode. Eligibility: Any bachelor’s degree with 50% marks. Duration: 2 years split into 4 semesters. Fee: Rs. 15,000 per year. Selection is merit-based on graduation marks. The program includes virtual tutorials and comprehensive study materials for language mastery.
Master of Commerce (M.Com) focuses on advanced accounting, finance, and business management principles. Eligibility: B.Com/BBA/B.A Economics with 45% marks. Duration: 2 years. Fee: Rs. 12,500 per year. Direct admission based on undergraduate scores. The program offers specializations in Banking, Finance, and Corporate Accounting.
M.A. Public Administration prepares students for civil services and public sector roles. Eligibility: Any bachelor’s degree with 45% marks. Duration: 2 years. Fee: Rs. 13,000 per year. Merit-based admission process. Includes practical exposure through case studies and policy analysis modules.
M.Sc. Information Technology provides advanced knowledge in software development and digital technologies. Eligibility: BCA/B.Sc CS/IT with 50% marks. Duration: 2 years. Fee: Rs. 18,000 per year. Selection through academic merit. The program features practical assignments and industry-relevant projects.
Master of Social Work (MSW) trains professionals in community development and social welfare. Eligibility: Any bachelor’s degree with 45% marks. Duration: 2 years. Fee: Rs. 14,000 per year. Direct admission based on graduation marks. Includes field work and NGO internships for hands-on experience.
Tamil Nadu Open University Admission Diploma
- TNOU offers flexible diploma programs including Diploma in Computer Applications (DCA), Diploma in Early Childhood Care & Education (DECCE), and Diploma in Cooperative Management (DCM). The minimum eligibility is 35% in 10+2 from any recognized board. Programs run for 1 year with fees ranging from Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 15,000.
- Admission is based on direct entry through merit in qualifying exams. Students can apply online through the TNOU portal between 25 June 2026 and 30 September 2025. The university provides comprehensive study materials and contact classes at designated learning centers. Special focus on practical training enhances employability.
- The Tamil Nadu Open University diploma courses are recognized by UGC-DEB and aligned with industry requirements. Students receive hands-on training through practical sessions and workshops. Course delivery combines self-study materials, online resources, and periodic contact sessions at study centers across Tamil Nadu.
Tamil Nadu Open University Admission PG Diploma
PG Diploma in Computer Applications (PGDCA)
This industry-aligned program equips students with advanced computer application skills. Eligibility: Any bachelor’s degree with 45% marks. Duration: 1 year (2 semesters). Program fee: Rs. 15,000. Selection through merit-based admission. The curriculum covers programming languages, database management, web development, and software testing fundamentals. Study materials provided through distance mode with practical sessions at study centers.
PG Diploma in Business Management (PGDBM)
A comprehensive management program designed for working professionals and entrepreneurs. Eligibility: Graduate degree in any discipline with 50% marks. Duration: 1 year. Course fee: Rs. 18,500. Direct admission based on academic merit. Covers strategic management, marketing, finance, and human resources. Includes case studies and project work for practical exposure.
PG Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication
Develop professional skills in media and communication through this specialized program. Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with 45% marks. Duration: 1 year. Program fee: Rs. 16,000. Merit-based admission process. The curriculum includes print media, broadcast journalism, digital media, and media laws. Features industry interactions and practical assignments.
PG Diploma in Environmental Management
This specialized program focuses on sustainable development and environmental protection. Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in Science/Engineering with 50% marks. Duration: 1 year. Course fee: Rs. 17,000. Direct admission based on academic performance. Covers environmental policy, waste management, pollution control, and environmental impact assessment with practical field studies.
Tamil Nadu Open University Admission Certificate
- TNOU offers diverse certificate programs including Computer Applications, Tamil Language, Office Management, and Early Childhood Care. Basic eligibility requires 33% in 10th standard. Duration ranges from 3-6 months with fees between ₹2,500 – ₹4,000.
- Selection is primarily through direct admission on a first-come-first-served basis. Candidates must submit their application through the TNOU portal between June 25, 2025 – September 30, 2025. Limited seats are available for each program batch.
- Certificate courses include flexible study options with weekend contact classes. Students receive comprehensive study materials and access to TNOU’s digital learning platform. Program completion requires 40% marks in both assignments and term-end examinations.