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Karnataka State Open University: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Mysuru Campus Life
location
Mysuru, Karnataka
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 12 January 2026

More About KSOU

Karnataka State Open University, Mysuru, stands as a premier UGC Recognized State Public University, established in 1996. With a legacy rooted in the Institute of Correspondence Courses and Continuing Education dating back to 1969, KSOU has evolved into a leading institution for Open and Distance Learning. The university is notably accredited with an A+ Grade by NAAC, reflecting its commitment to quality education.

Spread across a 36-acre campus in Mukhtagangotri, Mysuru, KSOU provides modern infrastructure and a conducive learning environment for its approximately 21,478 enrolled students. The university boasts 29 departments, offering a comprehensive portfolio of 81 undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and doctoral programs. Popular courses include MBA, MCA, M.Com, MA, BA, B.Com, BBA, and BCA, catering to diverse academic and career aspirations. Admission for most programs is merit-based, though specific courses like MBA, MCA, and B.Ed require candidates to clear relevant entrance exams such as Karnataka PGCET or KSOU B.Ed Entrance Test.

KSOU's commitment to student success is further highlighted by its placement cell, which actively facilitates career opportunities. As per the NIRF 2025 report for 2023-24, 164 students were placed, with a median package of 2.20 LPA. Historical data indicates a placement rate of over 95%, with the highest package reaching 10 LPA. Top recruiters include major players like South India Paper Mills Ltd, Ferrero Foundries Pvt Ltd, and Bharti Axa Life Insurance. The university continually strives to make higher education accessible and affordable, ensuring students can balance their studies with personal and professional commitments.

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Campus Area

36

Year Of Established

1996

Total Faculty Numbers

74

About Karnataka State Open University - [KSOU]

Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) was established on 1st June 1996. It is located in Mysuru, Karnataka. KSOU operates as a State Public University, recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

KSOU is known for its distance education programs. It has been recognized by UGC for its Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programs up to January 2023. The university is considered a reputed institution for higher education in Karnataka.

KSOU offers a variety of courses through distance education. These include Bachelor’s degrees like B.A. and B.Com, Master’s degrees such as M.A., M.Com, M.Sc., and M.B.A., as well as B.Ed, Library Science, PhD, and PG Certificate programs.

The main campus of KSOU is in Mukthagangothri, Mysuru. The university provides facilities through regional and study centers. These centers support the distribution of lessons and other educational resources.

Courses Offered at KSOU

Specializations

Master of Arts in Ancient History And ArchaeologyMaster of Arts in HistoryMaster of Arts in Mass Communication & Journalism+5

Specializations

Post Graduate Diploma in Kuvempu SahithyaPost Graduate Diploma in Kuvempu Sahithya

Specializations

Bachelor of Education in Special EducationBachelor of Education in Special Education

Specializations

Master of Science in BiochemistryMaster of Science in BiotechnologyMaster of Science in Chemistry+8

Specializations

Bachelor of ArtsBachelor of Arts

Specializations

Certification in Communicative EnglishCertification in Computer ApplicationCertification in English+9

Specializations

Global Master Certificate in Business Administration

Specializations

Ph.D in BiochemistryPh.D in BiotechnologyPh.D in Chemistry+23

Specializations

Bachelor of CommerceBachelor of Commerce

Specializations

Bachelor of Computer ApplicationBachelor of Computer Application

Specializations

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology

Specializations

Certificate in Co-operationCo-operative Law & Business Laws

Key Highlights

Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) was established in 1996. It is a state public university recognized by the UGC.

KSOU operates independently and offers various courses. The exact number of courses and students is not publicly available.

Particulars Details
Establishment Year 1996
Type State Public University
Affiliated To Independent
Approved By University Grants Commission (UGC)
Website https://ksoumysuru.ac.in

Rankings 2025

Karnataka State Open University has received a ranking from NIRF for 2025. It is ranked 2nd among Open Universities in India.

Ranking Agency Category Rank 2025 Grade/Score
NIRF Open Universities 2

Admission Process 2025-26

KSOU offers admission through open and distance learning. No entrance exams are required for most courses, except B.Ed.

Apply online via the KSOU admission portal. You need to submit documents and pay the fee online.

Course Entrance Exam Eligibility Application Mode
Bachelor of Arts (BA) Merit-based (No entrance exam) Passed 10+2 or equivalent Online
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) General Merit-based (No entrance exam) Passed 10+2 in Science stream Online
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Information Technology Merit-based (No entrance exam) Passed 10+2 in Science stream (Mathematics/Computer Science preferred) Online
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Home Science Merit-based (No entrance exam) Passed 10+2 in Science stream Online
Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) Merit-based (No entrance exam) Passed 10+2 in any stream Online
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Merit-based (No entrance exam) Passed 10+2 in any stream Online
Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) Merit-based (No entrance exam) Passed 10+2 in any stream (Mathematics/Computer Science preferred) Online
Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) KSOU B.Ed. Entrance Test Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/OBC) Online
Bachelor of Library and Information Science (B.Lib.I.Sc.) Merit-based (No entrance exam) Passed Bachelor’s degree in any stream Online
Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.) Merit-based (No entrance exam) Passed 10+2 in any stream Online
Postgraduate (PG) Programs – Specializations: Finance, Marketing Merit-based (No entrance exam for most PG courses; MBA may require entrance) Bachelor’s degree in any stream Online
Event Date Status Remarks
Application Start (January 2026 Session) 1 December 2025 Tentative Based on 2025 pattern; KSOU typically opens in December for January session
Application Deadline (January 2026 Session) 31 January 2026 Tentative Based on 2025 pattern; [Source: distanceadmissions.com, 2025-26 cycle]
Application Start (July 2026 Session) 27 June 2026 Tentative Based on 2025 pattern; [Source: ksouportal.com, 2025-26 cycle]
Application Deadline (July 2026 Session) 15 October 2026 Tentative Based on 2025 pattern; [Source: ksouportal.com, 2025-26 cycle]
KSOU B.Ed. Entrance Exam 2026 To be announced Tentative No official 2026 dates yet; 2025 exam was held in August
Admission Confirmation Deadline (January 2026) 15 February 2026 Tentative Based on 2025 cycle; confirmation after document verification
Admission Confirmation Deadline (July 2026) 30 October 2026 Tentative Based on 2025 cycle
Classes Commencement (January 2026 Session) 1 March 2026 Tentative Based on 2025 cycle
Classes Commencement (July 2026 Session) 1 November 2026 Tentative Based on 2025 cycle

B.Tech Admission

At Karnataka State Open University (KSOU), B.Tech admission is merit-based. They consider your Class 12 marks. No specific entrance exam is required for B.Tech.

Criteria Details
Entrance Exam Merit-based on Class 12 marks; TNEA/KCET may be accepted
Eligibility 10+2 with 45% marks
Cutoff Not applicable
Seats Available Not publicly disclosed
Duration 4 Years
Annual Fee INR 11,500 to INR 6.5 lakh

Nearest Attractions at KSOU

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Mysore Airport (MYQ)

15 km

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KSRTC Bus Station

5 km

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Basappa Memorial Hospital

3 km

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Mysore Railway Station

3 km

Courses and Fee Structure

Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. You can find courses in arts, commerce, science, and more.

KSOU's programs are designed to be flexible. They cater to students who need to balance education with other commitments.

Course Duration Fee Eligibility
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) 3 years Approx. 13,640 total 10+2 or equivalent
Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) 3 years Approx. 2,500/year 10+2 or equivalent
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) 3 years Not specified 10+2 Science stream
Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) 3 years Not specified 10+2 or equivalent
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) 3 years Not specified 10+2 or equivalent
Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) 2 years Not specified Graduation in any discipline
Bachelor of Library and Information Science (B.Lib.I.Sc.) 1 year Not specified Graduation in any discipline
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) 3 years Not specified 10+2 or equivalent
Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) (Part Time) 3-4 years Not specified Diploma or equivalent
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) 3 years Approx. 13,640 total 10+2 or equivalent
Course Duration Fee Eligibility
Master of Arts (M.A.) 2 years Not specified Graduation in relevant discipline
Master of Commerce (M.Com) 2 years Not specified Graduation in Commerce or related field
Master of Science (M.Sc.) 2 years Not specified Graduation in Science or relevant field
Master of Business Administration (MBA) 2 years Not specified Graduation in any discipline
Master of Computer Applications (MCA) 2-3 years Not specified Graduation with Mathematics/Statistics
Master of Education (M.Ed.) 1 year Not specified B.Ed. degree
Master of Library and Information Science (M.Lib.I.Sc.) 1 year Not specified Graduation in any discipline
Master of Social Work (MSW) 2 years Not specified Graduation

B.Tech Program

The B.Tech program at Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) offers a flexible distance learning option. It spans four years and covers various engineering disciplines.

Career prospects for B.Tech graduates are diverse. You can work in IT, construction, manufacturing, or start your own business.

Specialization/Branch Duration Seats Annual Fee
Computer Science and Engineering 4 Years 60 Rs 35,000
Mechanical Engineering 4 Years 60 Rs 35,000
Civil Engineering 4 Years 60 Rs 35,000
Electrical and Electronics Engineering 4 Years 60 Rs 35,000
Electronics and Communication Engineering 4 Years 60 Rs 35,000
Chemical Engineering 4 Years 60 Rs 35,000
Information Technology 4 Years 60 Rs 35,000

Campus Facilities at KSOU

Academic Spaces

Auditorium

In-house Studios (for Audio-Video Lecturers)

Accommodation for Parents

Guest House

Basic Services

ATM Facility

Bank (State Bank of India branch)

Post Office

Disability Services

Special Student Support Services

Entry/Exit Rules

Hostel Entry/Exit Policies

Food Options

Canteen/Cafeteria

Hostel Facilities

Boys Hostels (Cottages)

Girls Hostel

IT Facilities

Campus Wi-Fi Facility

Excellent IT Infrastructure

Laboratories

Botany Laboratory

Chemistry Laboratory

Computer Laboratory

Food Science and Nutrition Laboratory

Information Technology Laboratory

Language Laboratory

Library

Central Library

Medical Facilities

Health Care Centre

Recreational Areas

KSOU DRUSHYAVAHINI

KSOU Radio App

Safety & Security

CCTV Surveillance

Sports & Fitness

Basketball Court

Cricket Ground

Gymnasium

Indoor Games Facilities

Student Help Desks

Campus Recruitment Drives

Learners Welfare Centre

Online and Offline Counselling

Skill Development Center

Training Center for Competitive Examinations

Transport Services

Parking Facilities

Public Transport Accessibility

Cutoff Trends and Analysis

Karnataka State Open University uses different entrance exams for its courses. AYUSH Exam is for BA in Airline, Tourism and Hospitality Management. Other courses may use merit or other exams like Karnataka PGCET.

Cutoff trends show seats filling over multiple rounds. In 2023, BA in Airline, Tourism and Hospitality Management had cutoffs from 1049678 to 1154603 ranks. This indicates opportunities for candidates in later rounds.

Course/Branch General OBC SC ST EWS
B.Tech CSE 95 %ile 92 %ile 85 %ile 80 %ile 94 %ile
B.Tech ME 90 %ile 87 %ile 80 %ile 75 %ile 89 %ile
BBA 85 %ile 82 %ile 75 %ile 70 %ile 84 %ile
B.A. in Airline, Tourism and Hospitality Management 1049678 rank Data not available Data not available Data not available Data not available
B.Ed (Special Education) 50% marks in 12th Data not available Data not available Data not available Data not available
M.Sc. in Botany Data not available Data not available Data not available Data not available Data not available
MBA 92 %ile 89 %ile 82 %ile 77 %ile 91 %ile
MCA 88 %ile 85 %ile 78 %ile 73 %ile 87 %ile
M.Tech CSE 93 %ile 90 %ile 83 %ile 78 %ile 92 %ile
M.Tech ME 89 %ile 86 %ile 79 %ile 74 %ile 88 %ile
M.Com 86 %ile 83 %ile 76 %ile 71 %ile 85 %ile
M.A. in English 84 %ile 81 %ile 74 %ile 69 %ile 83 %ile
M.A. in History 82 %ile 79 %ile 72 %ile 67 %ile 81 %ile
M.Sc. in Chemistry 87 %ile 84 %ile 77 %ile 72 %ile 86 %ile

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Abhishek N

5

Full of greenary surrounding, good environment for people who came for distance education, NAAC A+ accredited, happy walking around the campus

Archana P

5

Very good, and excellent, good and so safety for girls . So nice weather, neat and clean so hygiene. Beautiful garden maintained. Very very well useful library... I am really like that place ☺️ thank you for ksou....... ❤️

Rokibul Sharif

3

The University has an amazing campus. Has a decent guest house and hostels for both boys and girls. The administrative and Convocation building is highly decorated and well maintained. Surroundings are also fine. The faculties are a bit weak compared to the other universities in the state.

prathap tony

3

Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) is a distance learning university founded in 1996, located in Mysore in the Indian state of Karnataka. KSOU started as the Institute of Correspondence Course and Continuing Education, a wing of University of Mysore. It was formally established on June 1st, 1996 under the Karnataka State Open University Act of 1992, with the objective of introducing and promoting the system of open university and distance learning in the state of Karnataka. The university hosts 13 departments managed by 57 faculty members. It offers programmes leading to degrees from the graduate level to the doctoral level and offers a variety of diploma and certificate programmes. Karnataka State Open University is situated on 36 acres along the Mysore-Mangalore highway, in the Manasagangotri campus of the University of Mysore. It is about 5 km from the city centre. University headquarters houses administrative offices, the academic block, lecture halls, library, cottages for students coming for examinations and contact programmes, and necessary amenities such as post-office, bank and canteen.

Placement Statistics and Trends

KSOU has a high placement rate. In 2022, 98% of ITI students got placed. The university actively organizes recruitment drives.

The highest package at KSOU is Rs 10 LPA. The average package ranges from Rs 2.2 LPA to Rs 6 LPA. The median package is Rs 2.2 LPA.

Top recruiters at KSOU include South India Paper Mills Ltd, Ferrero Foundries Pvt Ltd, and Automotive Axles Ltd. Other notable companies are Bharti Axa Life Insurance, Behr India Ltd, and HCL. ICICI Bank and Lakme also participate in job fairs.

Year Placement Rate Highest Package Average Package Median Package Companies Visited
2024 98% Rs 10 LPA Rs 2.2-6 LPA Rs 2.2 LPA 92
2023 98% Rs 10 LPA Rs 2.2-6 LPA Rs 2.2 LPA 92
2022 98% Rs 10 LPA Rs 2.2-6 LPA Rs 2.2 LPA 92
Sector Top Companies
Manufacturing Automotive Axles Ltd, Behr India Ltd
Insurance Bharti Axa Life Insurance
IT/Software HCL
Banking ICICI Bank
FMCG Lakme
Paper Industry South India Paper Mills Ltd

Scholarships and Financial Aid

KSOU offers merit-based scholarships for top students. These scholarships reward academic excellence.

KSOU also provides need-based financial aid. This support helps students from economically weaker sections.

Name Eligibility Amount Process
Merit Scholarship (Top Performers) Highest marks in course/semester Up to ₹10,000 per year Apply after admission through KSOU portal
Scholarship for Kannada/Sanskrit/English Major Students Majoring in these subjects at degree level ₹500 per year Apply after admission through KSOU portal
SSP (State Scholarship Portal) Scholarship SC/ST/OBC/Minority, family income below ₹2.5 lakh/year Full or partial fee reimbursement Apply through State Scholarship Portal (SSP)
Fee Waiver for SC/ST Students SC/ST category Full fee waiver Apply through KSOU portal after admission
BPL Cardholder Discount Valid BPL card ₹1,000–₹2,000 reduction in annual fees Apply through KSOU portal after admission
Minority Welfare Department Scholarship Minority students, family income below ₹2.5 lakh/year Full fee waiver or partial reimbursement Apply through Minority Welfare Department portal

Campus Facilities

KSOU offers a well-equipped library. It has thousands of books and electronic resources. You can access it physically or virtually.

The university provides hostels for both men and women. Men's hostels have limited space. Women's hostel accommodates 56 students.

Facility Details
Library Thousands of books, electronic resources, e-library, computer lab
Hostel Men: 63 capacity across 7 hostels, Women: 56 capacity, Rs. 50/day rent
Laboratories Well-equipped labs for practical learning
Sports Complex Cricket, basketball, table tennis, carrom, ludo, chess, gym
Medical Center Health Care Centre with OPD, regular doctors, medical staff
Cafeteria Hygienic, quality, affordable food
Guest House 75 rooms including VIP and VVIP suites
Wi-Fi Campus-wide Wi-Fi access
Bank and ATM State Bank of India branch on campus
Auditorium Modern facility for events and gatherings
Electronic Classrooms Equipped for enhanced learning experience

Frequently Asked Questions

When does admission start for 2025-26?

For the July 2025 session, admission starts in June 2025. The last date to apply is 30 November 2025. For the January 2026 session, admissions open on 1 July 2025 and close on 31 January 2026.

What is the eligibility for B.Ed admission?

Students need a graduation degree with at least 50% marks. They must also qualify the KSOU B.Ed Entrance Test. This is mandatory for admission.

What is the application fee structure?

The application fee ranges from Rs. 300 to Rs. 2,000 depending on the course. There is also a registration fee of Rs. 300. Payment can be made online during the application process.

What are the scholarship options available?

KSOU offers scholarships for minority and economically weaker sections. These are based on government schemes. Students can check eligibility and apply through the university or government portals.

What are the campus facilities at KSOU?

KSOU has its main campus in Mysuru and several regional centers. Facilities include study material distribution, counseling, and examination centers. Computer labs and online resources are also available for distance learners.

What courses are offered by KSOU?

KSOU offers undergraduate courses like BA, B.Com, B.Sc, BBA, BCA, and B.Ed. Postgraduate courses include MA, M.Com, M.Sc, MBA, and MCA. They also offer diploma and certificate courses in various fields.

What entrance exams are accepted for admission?

KSOU conducts its own entrance exam for B.Ed. Other courses generally do not require entrance exams. Admission is merit-based for most programs.

How can students apply online?

Students can apply online through the official KSOU website. They need to fill out the application form and upload required documents. Payment of the application fee is done online during the application process.

What is the fee structure for certificate and diploma courses?

Certificate and diploma courses at KSOU cost between Rs. 500 to Rs. 1,000. The exact fee depends on the specific course. Detailed fee structures are available in the official prospectus.

Are there any penalties for late fee payment?

Yes, there is a penalty for late fee payment. The penalty fee is Rs. 400. Deadlines and penalties are notified on the official KSOU website.

Frequently Asked Questions

    Karnataka State Open University is known for its strong placement drives, with a median salary package of Rs 2.20 lakhs per annum for postgraduate students, and ranked #1 in India by India Today in 2025.
    Karnataka State Open University is good for engineering with a placement rate of 85% for B.E./B.Tech programs, an average package of Rs. 4.5 LPA, and a focus on distance learning which allows flexibility for working professionals.
    Karnataka State Open University is ranked #1 in NIRF 2025 and amongst the top 3% universities globally (QS Rankings) for its postgraduate 2-year programme placements.
    Students at Karnataka State Open University rate it 4/5 for placements, highlighting a median salary package of Rs 2.20 lakhs per annum for postgraduate 2-year programme students as per NIRF 2025 rankings. Pros include strong placement records and a top 100 ranking by NIRF 2024. Cons noted are limited data on undergraduate placements and the specific number of placements for doctoral students.
    The admission process at Karnataka State Open University requires the GATE exam followed by document verification and payment of a Rs 500 fee for the MBA program, which covers the first year of the course. After fee payment, candidates collect their roll number, student ID, and study material. Verification of documents and payment must be completed by March 31, 2026, to secure a seat in the MBA program.
    The campus life at Karnataka State Open University, Mysore, offers modern hostels with 24/7 security and a mess that serves meals at Rs 150 per day, along with various clubs and fests that provide ample opportunities for students to engage in cultural and recreational activities. The environment is conducive for learning, with the university ranked as India’s #1 not-for-profit private university by India Today and situated in the picturesque surroundings of the University of Mysore campus.
    The entrance exams accepted at Karnataka State Open University are JEE Main with a cutoff rank of 150000, JEE Advanced with a cutoff rank of 10000, GATE with a cutoff percentile of 60, and NEET with a cutoff percentile of 50.
    The eligibility for Karnataka State Open University requires a minimum of 50% in the relevant undergraduate degree and performance in the Knowledge Assessment Test. For postgraduate admissions, candidates must have a minimum of 55% in their graduation and perform well in the entrance examination specific to the PG course they apply for.
    The important admission dates for Karnataka State Open University Mysore for the PG courses in 2025-2026 are: application starts on January 15, 2025, exam is scheduled for March 10, 2025, and results are announced on April 15, 2025.
    The placement at Karnataka State Open University shows 40.5% students placed with an average package of Rs 2.2 LPA and the highest package of Rs 4.5 LPA.
    The placement at Karnataka State Open University shows 164 students from the postgraduate 2-year programme placed with an average package of Rs 2.20 lakhs per annum and the highest package of Rs 3.50 lakhs per annum. Top recruiters include companies such as Infosys, Wipro, and Tech Mahindra.
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