More About KSOU
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
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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 |
Campus Gallery Of KSOU







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

Mysore Airport (MYQ)
15 km

KSRTC Bus Station
5 km

Basappa Memorial Hospital
3 km

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
Auditorium
In-house Studios (for Audio-Video Lecturers)
Guest House
ATM Facility
Bank (State Bank of India branch)
Post Office
Special Student Support Services
Hostel Entry/Exit Policies
Canteen/Cafeteria
Boys Hostels (Cottages)
Girls Hostel
Campus Wi-Fi Facility
Excellent IT Infrastructure
Botany Laboratory
Chemistry Laboratory
Computer Laboratory
Food Science and Nutrition Laboratory
Information Technology Laboratory
Language Laboratory
Central Library
Health Care Centre
KSOU DRUSHYAVAHINI
KSOU Radio App
CCTV Surveillance
Basketball Court
Cricket Ground
Gymnasium
Indoor Games Facilities
Campus Recruitment Drives
Learners Welfare Centre
Online and Offline Counselling
Skill Development Center
Training Center for Competitive Examinations
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
Full of greenary surrounding, good environment for people who came for distance education, NAAC A+ accredited, happy walking around the campus
Archana P
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
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
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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