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More About BAOU
Campus Area
20
Year Of Established
1994
Total Faculty Numbers
4500
About Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University - [BAOU] Ahmedabad
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU), established in 1994, is located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. It is a government state university founded by the Government of Gujarat to provide open and distance learning education across the state. The university operates under the jurisdiction of Gujarat and is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
BAOU holds an A++ grade accreditation from NAAC and was ranked third among open universities in India by NIRF in 2024. It offers over 80 programs across undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, certificate, and PhD levels through its four schools of study. The university serves more than 8 lakh learners with a network of 9 regional centres and over 300 study centres, focusing on flexible, accessible education and skill development.
Key Highlights
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University |
| Established | 1994 |
| Type | Government State University |
| Affiliation | Autonomous (UGC Recognized) |
| Approved By | UGC |
| NAAC Grade | A++ (Valid till 2027) |
| NIRF 2024 | #3 in Open University Category |
| Campus | Large campus, Ahmedabad, Gujarat |
| Courses | 80+ UG, PG, Diploma, Certificate, PhD |
| Popular Programmes | BA, BCom, BCA, BBA, MBA, MCA, MA (English, Hindi, Gujarati, Sociology, Journalism) |
| Students | 800,000+ |
| Regional Centres | 9 across Gujarat |
| Study Centres | 300+ |
| Website | https://baou.edu.in |
Courses Offered at BAOU
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Admission Dates 2026
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU) Ahmedabad conducts admissions twice a year, primarily in January and July sessions. Admissions for most UG and PG programs are merit-based, while some professional courses like MBA and B.Ed require entrance exams. The application process is fully online through the GCAS or BAOU portals.
| Programme | Event | Date |
|---|---|---|
| UG & PG (General) | Application Start | 01 December 2025 |
| UG & PG (General) | Application Deadline | 31 January 2026 |
| MBA | Application Start | 16 April 2026 |
| MBA | Application Deadline | 31 January 2026 |
| B.Ed | Entrance Exam Date | July 2026 |
| PhD | Application Deadline | 31 January 2026 |
Campus Gallery Of BAOU
Admission Process
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU) Ahmedabad offers admission primarily through an online application process for UG, PG, diploma, certificate, and PhD programs. Admissions are merit-based for most courses, with some requiring entrance exams, and applications are submitted via the official BAOU portal or the GCAS portal.
UG & PG Admission
Steps to Apply
- Visit the official BAOU admission portal at baouadm.samarth.edu.in or the GCAS portal.
- Register and create your ABC ID and DEB ID on the portal.
- Log in using your credentials and fill out the online application form with personal and academic details.
- Upload required documents in JPG format as specified.
- Pay the application fee online (₹300 to ₹1,000 depending on the program) via credit/debit card or net banking.
- Select your preferred study center during the application process.
- Submit the completed application form and download the confirmation receipt for your records.
PhD Admission
Steps to Apply
- Ensure you meet eligibility with a relevant Master’s degree and qualifying scores in NET, SET, or GATE if applicable.
- Apply online through the official BAOU PhD admission portal when the form is released (usually by October).
- Pay the PhD application fee of ₹500 online.
- Appear for the BAOU PhD entrance test and subsequent interview or research presentation for final selection.
Eligibility Criteria & Fees
| Programme | Qualification | Entrance Exam | Min % | Fees (per year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (e.g., BA, BCom, BBA) | 10+2 or equivalent | Merit-based | 45% | ₹5,000 - ₹10,000 |
| Postgraduate (e.g., MA, MCom, MBA) | Bachelor’s degree in relevant field | MBA requires merit; some PG courses may require entrance | 50% (45% for reserved categories in MBA) | ₹10,000 - ₹25,000 |
| B.Ed. (ODL) | Bachelor’s degree | Merit-based | 50% (55% for science/math background) | ₹10,000 - ₹15,000 |
| PhD | Master’s degree in relevant discipline | BAOU PhD Entrance Test / NET / SET / GATE | ₹15,000 - ₹20,000 |
Documents Required
- Class 10 and 12 mark sheets and certificates
- Graduation mark sheet and degree certificate (for PG and PhD)
- Entrance exam scorecard (if applicable)
- Photograph and signature (scanned copies)
- Proof of identity (Aadhaar card, passport, etc.)
- Category certificate (if applicable)
Nearest Attractions at BAOU
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport
21 km
Geeta Mandir Central Bus Station
16 km
Sanjivani Multispecialty Hospital
2.5 km
Sabarmati Junction Railway Station
13.5 km
Placements 2025
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU), Ahmedabad, recorded a strong placement performance in 2025, with approximately 85% of BA students placed and a median salary package ranging from ₹1.44 to ₹3 LPA across undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The highest package reached ₹12 LPA, reflecting competitive opportunities primarily in IT, management, and consulting sectors.
Placement Statistics
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Highest Package | ₹12 LPA |
| Average Package | ₹6.5 LPA |
| Median Package | ₹2.40 - 3 LPA |
| Placement Rate | 85% (BA), 70% (BBA) |
| Students Placed | 552 UG, 3654 PG |
Top Recruiters
IT: TCS, Tech Mahindra, Wipro, Etech Global Services
Consulting: Adani Enterprises, Aditya Birla Group
Core: Tata Motors, HDFC Bank, IndiGo
Branch-wise Placement
| Branch | Highest | Average | %Placed |
|---|---|---|---|
| BA | ₹12 LPA | ₹6.5 LPA | 85% |
| BBA | 70% | ||
| PG Programs | ₹3 LPA | 3654 students |
Campus Facilities at BAOU
Administrative Offices
Counseling Rooms (Headquarters & Study Centers)
Seminar/Meeting Halls
Administrative Support Services
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Water Purifiers/Coolers
Accessibility Features (Main Campus)
Counseling and Support for Disabled Students
Access Control System (Main Campus)
Campus Canteen/Cafeteria
Centralized IT Infrastructure
Online Student Portal & Learning Management System
Wi-Fi Campus (Headquarters)
Audio-Visual Labs
Computer Labs
Central Library (Headquarters)
Digital Library and E-Resources
Study Center Reference Libraries
First Aid / Basic Medical Room
CCTV Surveillance
Campus Security Personnel
Grievance Redressal Mechanism
Student Support Desk (Headquarters & Study Centers)
Parking Facilities
Rankings & Accreditations
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU), Ahmedabad, holds a strong position among open universities in India, securing the 3rd rank in the NIRF Open University category for 2025. It is accredited with an A++ grade by NAAC, reflecting high academic standards and quality in distance education.
NIRF 2025
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Open University | #3 |
Accreditations
- NAAC: A++ Grade (Valid till 2029, based on 3.55 CGPA on 4-point scale)
- UGC-DEB: Recognized for Distance Education
- AICTE: Approved
Student Reviews & Testimonials
sharad shingrakhiya
The great job of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University and it's all center especially Smt. Hansa Mehta Library, Sayaji Ganj, Vadodara.💐🙏
Sylvester John
Lovely Place. The library and Public reading places are amazing. The whole university is very thoughtfully built without compromising nature.
Nishika Ramchandani
Initially my experience was not good they were not helping me in my WES for my degree and mark sheet but then they told me to come again with WES form and documents then they made it easy and quick for me I thankful to every one who helped me
Ashutosh Sharma
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar OU is situated on SG highway and nearby Norma University. It has been awarded A++ grade by NAAC that show’s quality of institution and its commitment towards excellence. It offers many courses along with MOOCs. They have a post office inside the campus that is open for general public as well in case they want to use their services.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU), Ahmedabad offers a variety of scholarships to support students from reserved categories, economically backward classes, and meritorious candidates. These include university-specific scholarships like Covid Shiksha Suraksha Yojana and research fellowships, as well as government scholarships accessible via the National Scholarship Portal and Digital Gujarat. Financial aid ranges from fee waivers to grants up to ₹2,00,000 for startups and research projects.
Institute Scholarships
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Covid Shiksha Suraksha Yojana | Students affected by Covid-19 pandemic (loss of parent/spouse) | Free education |
| Shaheed Samman Yojana | Children of army martyrs | Free education |
| Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Research Fellowship | SC/ST researchers undertaking projects | ₹25,000 per project |
| Parivar Pathey Yojana | Eligible students from reserved categories | Varies |
| Dronacharya Startup and Innovation Scheme | Students with innovative startup ideas | ₹2,00,000 grant |
Government Scholarships
| Scheme | For | Amount | Portal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Post-Matric Scholarship (SC/ST/OBC/SEBC) | Students from SC/ST/OBC/SEBC categories with income limits | Fee reimbursement, varies by scheme | Digital Gujarat / NSP |
| National Scholarship for Postgraduate Studies (UGC) | First-time PG students under 30 years | ₹10,000 per year or ₹15,000 per month | NSP |
| PM-USP (Prime Minister's Special Scholarship) | Students with ≥80% in Class 12, parental income ≤ ₹4.5 Lakhs | ₹82,000 per annum | NSP |
External Scholarships
- UGC-NET / CSIR-NET Fellowships: Monthly stipends and contingency grants for qualified research scholars
- Gargi Research Fellowship: ₹25,000 for selected female researchers from reserved categories
Comparison
Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU) Ahmedabad is compared with Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) Mysore as they are leading public open universities in India offering extensive distance education programs, recognized by NIRF for their quality and reach in open learning.
| Parameter | Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University - [BAOU] Ahmedabad | Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) | Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) Mysore |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Government | Government | Government |
| Established | 1994 | 1985 | 1996 |
| NIRF 2025 | Not ranked in top 3 open universities | #1 (Open Universities) | #2 (Open Universities) |
| NAAC | A Grade | A++ Grade | A Grade |
| Fee (Total) | ₹0.05 L (approx.) | ₹0.10 L (approx.) | ₹0.06 L (approx.) |
Key Strengths
- Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University - [BAOU] Ahmedabad: Strong regional presence in Gujarat with affordable fees and diverse distance learning programs tailored for local students.
- Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU): India’s largest open university with extensive national reach, highest NIRF rank among open universities, and a vast network of regional and learner support centers.
- Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) Mysore: Known for integrating digital tools effectively in distance education and strong emphasis on research and skill development.
Campus & Infrastructure
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU) in Ahmedabad features a modern campus with well-ventilated classrooms, air-conditioned labs, and a large library. The university supports flexible learning with digital classrooms, computer labs, and a seminar hall, complemented by sports and recreational facilities.
Campus Details
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Ahmedabad, Gujarat |
| Nearest Railway | Ahmedabad Junction (approx. 7 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (approx. 15 km) |
Academic Facilities
- Library: Over 73,000 books including national and international journals, reference materials, and a digital library
- Labs: Multiple air-conditioned computer laboratories with PCs
- Classrooms: Spacious, well-ventilated classrooms equipped with digital boards and high-speed internet
Other Facilities
- Auditorium for academic and cultural events
- Canteen serving hygienic and affordable food
- Sports facilities including tennis, badminton, chess, and carrom
- Seminar hall and yoga hall
- Wi-Fi enabled campus with high-speed internet access
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the eligibility criteria for admission to the BA program at BAOU?
To apply for the BA program, candidates must have passed Class 12 or an equivalent exam from a recognized board. Candidates with a B.P.P. examination qualification are also eligible. Admission is merit-based, considering marks obtained in the last qualifying exam.
Is there an entrance exam for MBA admission at BAOU?
No entrance exam is required for MBA admission. Candidates must have a bachelor's degree with at least 50% aggregate marks. Admission is based on merit from the qualifying degree.
What is the fee structure for undergraduate courses at BAOU?
Fees for UG courses range approximately from ₹3,600 to ₹54,000 depending on the program. The application fee is around ₹500 for general candidates and ₹300 for reserved categories.
Does BAOU provide scholarships or financial aid?
BAOU offers scholarships and financial assistance schemes for eligible students, including those with disabilities and economically weaker sections, as part of its learner support services.
Are there placement opportunities or campus recruitment drives at BAOU?
As an open university focused on distance learning, BAOU does not have a formal campus placement cell or recruitment drives. Students typically pursue career advancement through government exams, promotions, or entrepreneurship.
What specializations are available in postgraduate courses at BAOU?
BAOU offers PG courses in subjects like English, Hindi, Sociology, Gujarati, and Commerce, among others, with options for diplomas and certificate programs in various fields.
How is the faculty quality at BAOU?
The university has experienced faculty members who provide quality teaching through study centers and digital platforms, supporting distance learners effectively.
Does BAOU have hostel facilities for students?
BAOU provides five hostels (three for girls, two for boys) with air-conditioned rooms at ₹35,000 for six months. However, many distance learners prefer nearby PG accommodations due to limited hostel usage.
What are the campus facilities available at BAOU's main campus?
The main campus includes well-ventilated classrooms, e-classrooms, labs, a large library with over 73,000 books, seminar and yoga halls, sports facilities, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Is there a dress code or uniform requirement for BAOU students?
There is no dress code or uniform requirement since BAOU operates primarily through distance learning and study centers.
How accessible is BAOU's campus for students with disabilities?
The campus is equipped with ramps, elevators, wheelchair-accessible pathways, designated parking, and other facilities to support students with disabilities.
What is the application process for BAOU admissions?
Applicants must fill the online application form on the official BAOU portal, upload required documents, and pay the course fee. Admission is merit-based for most courses except B.Ed., which requires an entrance exam.
Are part-time jobs or internships available for BAOU students?
BAOU does not directly provide part-time job placements or internships, but students can seek opportunities independently, especially in their local areas, due to the flexible study mode.
How many study centers does BAOU have, and what is their role?
BAOU has over 250 study centers across Gujarat where students can attend counseling, access study materials, and receive academic support on weekends.
What is the duration of UG and PG courses at BAOU?
UG courses typically last 3 to 4 years, while PG courses have a duration of 2 years, following standard academic norms for distance education.
How is the commute and connectivity to BAOU's main campus in Ahmedabad?
The campus is located on the Sarkhej-Gandhinagar Highway near Chharodi, well connected by city buses and auto-rickshaws. The nearest metro station is not yet operational, so road transport is preferred.
Does BAOU provide digital learning resources for students?
Yes, BAOU offers e-learning materials, video lectures, and digital resources through its online portal to support distance learners effectively.
What is the reputation and accreditation status of BAOU?
BAOU is recognized by UGC-DEB and holds a NAAC grade of B++. It is the seventh established open university in India, known for affordable and accessible distance education.
Can students pursue research or Ph.D. programs at BAOU?
Yes, BAOU offers doctoral programs where admission is based on an entrance exam conducted by the university, followed by merit-based selection.
How does BAOU compare to other open universities in Gujarat?
BAOU has a large network of study centers and a wide range of programs, making it one of the leading open universities in Gujarat with affordable fees and recognized degrees.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University is good for engineering with a placement percentage of 70%, average package of Rs 5 LPA, and a strong specialty in the field of Technology and Management. The university's engineering programs are designed to equip students with industry-relevant skills, and its industry connect is facilitated through partnerships with top companies like TATA and Infosys. With its strong infrastructure and teaching quality, BAOU's engineering programs are well-regarded in the region, with students achieving a high ranking of #3 in the NIRF 2024 rankings for Open Universities.
- Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University is known for offering a wide range of courses across various disciplines, including Arts, Commerce, Science, Education, and Management, and is ranked #3 in the Open University category as per the NIRF 2024 rankings. The university is also recognized for its collaborations with national and international organizations, having signed MoUs with institutions such as Vardhman Mahaveer Open University and Astrakhan State University, Russia. Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University is particularly notable for its MBA programme, which is one of the most popular
- Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University is ranked #3 in NIRF 2025 and #4 in QS 2025 for the 'Open University' category. Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University is ranked #2 in Outlook 2025 for the 'Best Open University' category. Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University is ranked #1 in Times Higher Education 2025 for the 'Best Open University in India' category.
- The admission process at Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University requires XAT registration followed by counseling for MBA/PGDM courses. For other courses, the admission process involves checking the marks of the last qualifying exam and verifying the eligibility criteria, after which the candidates need to fill in their application forms and pay the registration fees. The candidates are then required to upload the required documents and submit the application, after which the university will conduct counseling and interviews for the selected candidates.
- Students at Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University rate it 4/5 for faculty, highlighting its well-structured curriculum, experienced faculty members, and flexible course offerings. However, some students rate it 3/5 for campus, citing limited infrastructure and resources, but praising the university's online courses and collaborative partnerships. Overall, students at BAOU Ahmedabad appreciate its affordable fees, with the MBA programme costing Rs 1.5 lakh per year, divided into Rs 75,000 per semester, and Rs 50,000 per term.
- The campus life at Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University offers 4 hostels with a seating capacity of 1,200 students, providing a comfortable living environment. The university offers various facilities, including a library with over 50,000 books, a sports complex with a basketball court and a cricket pitch, and a range of clubs and societies, including a cultural club, a sports club, and a student council. The university's campus is set amidst a serene environment, with lush greenery and a peaceful atmosphere, providing a perfect setting for students to focus on their studies and extr
- The eligibility for Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University requires a minimum of 45% marks in the subjects of English, Mathematics, and Statistics for UG and PG courses, and a minimum of 50% marks in the subjects of Mathematics, Statistics, and English for Diploma and Certificate courses. For MBA/PGDM courses, the eligibility requires a minimum of 50% marks in the XAT 2026 exam. The eligibility criteria also requires a minimum of 50% marks in the relevant subject for M.Sc. and M.Lib.I.Sc. courses, and a minimum of
- The important admission dates for Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University are: application starts from October 1, 2025, for the July Session, exam will be held on December 31, 2025, and results will be announced on January 15, 2026. The XAT registration process 2026 for MBA/PGDM courses is open until December 5, 2025. The XAT 2026 exam will be held on January 4, 2026, for the MBA/PGDM courses.
- The entrance exams accepted at Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University are JEE Main/Advanced, GATE, CAT, and NEET with cutoff of 90 percentile for UG admissions and 80 percentile for PG admissions. The XAT registration process 2026 is also accepted for MBA/PGDM courses with a cutoff of 60 percentile. The university does not specify a cutoff rank for NEET, but it is a mandatory exam for admission to medical courses.
- The placement at Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University shows 64.6% students placed with average package of Rs 4.50 LPA and highest of Rs 7.20 LPA.
- The placement at Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University shows 85% students placed with average package of Rs 2.20 LPA and highest of Rs 3.20 LPA. According to the NIRF Open University Report 2025, a total of 3654 postgraduate students were placed. The placement cell offered a median salary package of Rs 2.40 - 3 Lakh to postgraduate students.
