PSSOU Bilaspur-image
Pandit Sundarlal Sharma (Open) University: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Bilaspur Campus Life
location
Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 11 January 2026

More About PSSOU Bilaspur

Pt. Sundarlal Sharma (Open) University, Bilaspur, stands as a cornerstone of accessible higher education in Chhattisgarh. Established in 2005 by the state Legislature, PSSOU Bilaspur operates as an autonomous State Open University, empowering diverse learners, including working professionals and those in remote areas. Its founding marked a significant step in democratizing education, fostering flexible learning and broad regional reach.

The university offers 45 distinct programs, spanning undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate courses. These are structured and delivered through 10 specialized academic schools, including Arts, Humanities & Social Science, Science & Technology, Commerce & Management, Education, Computer Science & Information Technology, Health Sciences, Social Work, Journalism & Mass Communication, Law, and Vocational Studies. This comprehensive curriculum provides adaptable educational pathways through open and distance learning formats.

PSSOU Bilaspur emphasizes robust learner support and quality course materials, creating effective learning environments beyond conventional classrooms. While specific campus area or total student enrollment data isn''t commonly published for open universities, PSSOU efficiently uses technology and a network of study centers to reach its widespread student body across Chhattisgarh. Its commitment to quality education is evident in its program design, aligning with modern educational standards and skill development.

Admissions are primarily eligibility-based, avoiding competitive national entrance exams for wide accessibility. As an open university, its mission centers on academic empowerment. While traditional career outcome metrics like placements or median salaries aren''t tracked as in residential institutions, PSSOU qualifications significantly enhance graduates'' professional growth. Pt. Sundarlal Sharma (Open) University remains a vital institution for inclusive higher education in Chhattisgarh, empowering thousands annually.

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Year Of Established

2005

About Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University - [PSSOU] Bilaspur

Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University (PSSOU), established in 2005, is a state open university located in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh. It was founded by the Government of Chhattisgarh to provide accessible higher education through distance and open learning modes, named after the freedom fighter Pandit Sundarlal Sharma.

PSSOU holds an 'A+' grade accreditation from NAAC and is recognized by UGC, DEB, AICTE, and NCTE. The university offers over 40 programs across undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, certificate, and doctoral levels, with a focus on flexible and skill-oriented education. It serves thousands of students with a dedicated faculty and has established multiple regional centers to enhance outreach.

Key Highlights

ParameterDetails
Full NamePandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University
Established2005
TypeState Open University (Government)
AffiliationAutonomous
Approved ByUGC, DEB, AICTE, NCTE
NAAC GradeA+ (Valid till 2027)
CampusMain Campus, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh
Courses20+ UG, PG, Diploma, Certificate, PhD programs
Popular ProgrammesB.Ed, BA, B.Sc, MBA, PhD
StudentsThousands enrolled annually
FacultyQualified faculty across disciplines
Websitepssou.ac.in

Courses Offered at PSSOU Bilaspur

Specializations

Bachelor of ArtsBachelor of Arts

Specializations

Bachelor of Library and Information Science

Specializations

Diploma in Computer ApplicationDiploma in Elementary EducationDiploma in Elementary Language Teaching+1

Specializations

Master of Arts in EducationMaster of Arts in EnglishMaster of Arts in Hindi+5

Specializations

Ph.D in CommercePh.D in Computer SciencePh.D in Education+7

Specializations

Post Graduate Diploma in Advertising and Public RelationPost Graduate Diploma in Broadcast Journalism And New MediaPost Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications+10

Specializations

Bachelor of Business AdministrationBachelor of Business Administration

Specializations

Bachelor of CommerceBachelor of Commerce

Specializations

Bachelor of EducationBachelor of Education

Specializations

Bachelor of Science in Life ScienceBachelor of Science in Mathematics

Specializations

Certificate in Goods and Services TaxCertificate in Goods and Services Tax

Specializations

Master in Social Work

Admission Dates 2026

Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University (PSSOU) Bilaspur conducts admissions twice a year for various UG, PG, diploma, and certificate courses. Admissions are primarily merit-based, with entrance exams required for professional courses like B.Ed., D.El.Ed., and PhD. The application process is fully online through the university website.

ProgrammeEventDate
All UG/PG/Diploma/Certificate CoursesApplication Start01 July 2026
All UG/PG/Diploma/Certificate CoursesApplication Deadline (Without Late Fee)31 January 2026
All UG/PG/Diploma/Certificate CoursesApplication Deadline (With Late Fee)28 February 2026
MBAApplication Deadline31 January 2026
B.Ed. & D.El.Ed.Entrance ExamTo be notified (offline, 2 hours, objective type)
PhDApplication Deadline31 January 2026
PhDEntrance Exam & InterviewTo be notified

Admission Process

Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University (PSSOU) Bilaspur offers admissions primarily through online application based on merit for most UG and PG courses, while professional programs like B.Ed., D.El.Ed., and PhD require qualifying the university’s entrance exams. The application process involves registration, form submission, document upload, and fee payment.

UG and PG Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Visit the official PSSOU website (pssou.ac.in) and navigate to the “Online Admission” section.
  2. Create a new user account by registering with your email and mobile number.
  3. Log in and fill out the application form with personal and academic details.
  4. Upload scanned copies of required documents such as mark sheets, photo, signature, and caste certificate (if applicable).
  5. Pay the non-refundable application fee online (₹300 to ₹1000 depending on the program).
  6. Submit the application and download the confirmation page for future reference.
  7. Wait for the university to verify documents and merit; shortlisted candidates will receive admission offers or counseling schedules via email or SMS.
  8. Attend document verification and counseling (online/offline as notified) to finalize admission.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

ProgrammeQualificationEntrance ExamMin %Fees (per year)
Undergraduate (BA, BSc, BCom, BCA, BBA, B.Lib.I.Sc)10+2 from recognized boardNone (Merit-based)45%₹3,200 to ₹11,200
Postgraduate (MA, MSc, MCom, MBA, MSW, M.Lib.I.Sc)Bachelor’s degree from recognized universityNone (Merit-based, except MBA may require entrance)50%₹8,000 to ₹25,000
B.Ed.Graduate degree with 50% marksPSSOU Entrance Exam50%₹55,600
D.El.Ed.Graduate degree with 50% marksPSSOU Entrance Exam50%₹12,000 to ₹40,000
PhDMaster’s degree with 60-70% marksPSSOU Entrance Exam60%Varies by department

Documents Required

  • Class 10th and 12th mark sheets
  • Graduation/Postgraduation mark sheets and degree certificates
  • Entrance exam scorecard (for B.Ed., D.El.Ed., PhD)
  • Caste certificate (if applicable)
  • Transfer and migration certificates
  • Aadhar card photocopy or valid ID proof
  • Recent passport-size photographs
  • Application fee payment receipt

Nearest Attractions at PSSOU Bilaspur

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Bilasa Devi Kevat Airport, Bilaspur

14 km

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Bilaspur New Bus Stand

10.5 km

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CIMS (Chhattisgarh Institute of Medical Sciences), Bilaspur

6.5 km

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Bilaspur Junction

9.5 km

Placements 2025

Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University (PSSOU) Bilaspur has a modest placement record primarily in education and related sectors, with about 20-35% of students placed depending on the course. The highest monthly salary is ₹30,000, with average monthly salaries ranging between ₹15,000 and ₹20,000. Placement opportunities are mostly in teaching, sales, and marketing roles, with companies like Airtel, BSNL, and Coca Cola participating in recruitment drives.

Placement Statistics

ParameterValue
Highest Package₹3.6 LPA (₹30,000/month)
Average Package₹1.8–2.4 LPA (₹15,000–₹20,000/month)
Placement Rate20–35%
Students PlacedVaries by course (e.g., 25–35% for B.Com, 20–30% for B.Ed.)
Companies Visited5–7

Top Recruiters

IT: Airtel Services, BSNL

Consulting: Not specified

Core: Coca Cola, Educational Institutes

Branch-wise Placement

BranchHighestAverage%Placed
B.Com₹4–7 LPA₹2.5–4 LPA25–35%
B.Ed₹3–5 LPA₹2–3 LPA20–30%
M.Sc₹7–8 LPA₹3–5 LPA25%

Campus Facilities at PSSOU Bilaspur

Academic Spaces

Administrative Block (Main Campus)

Regional Centers

Study Centers

Basic Services

Administrative Offices

General Utilities & Maintenance

Printing Press

Disability Services

Accessible Study Materials

Entry/Exit Rules

Administrative Campus Access Control

IT Facilities

Computer Center

Online Learning Platform and Portals

Wi-Fi Connectivity

Laboratories

Computer Facilities at Study Centers

Library

Digital Library and Online Resources

University Library (Central)

Safety & Security

Security Personnel

Student Help Desks

Academic Counseling via Regional/Study Centers

Departmental Helpdesks/Contact Points

Grievance Redressal Committee

Transport Services

Parking Facilities

Rankings & Accreditations

Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University (PSSOU), Bilaspur, is not ranked in the NIRF 2025 university or open university categories. It holds a strong accreditation status with NAAC awarding it an A+ grade. The university is recognized by UGC and other regulatory bodies but does not appear in major national or international ranking lists for 2025.

NAAC Accreditation

  • NAAC: A+ Grade (Valid till 2028)

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Jitendra Pradhan

5

Love visiting here, so much greenery, soothing vibes and feels serene. Staff are kind and welcoming, makes the whole place feel really nice.

swati sharma

5

Place is very neat and clean . Easy to reach and very supportive staff

Deepak Kumar Pandey

5

The Pandit Sundarlal Sharma (Open) University Chhattisgarh, Bilaspur was established by the Chhattisgarh Govt. in 2005. The university campus is spread over in 70 acres and well planned infrastructure including administrative building, examination building, academic building, library building, bank, canteen, boys & gilrs hostel and guest house, officer's and employess buildings. There is also three helipads. .

BRIJESH KUMAR DEWANGAN

5

This university is built amidst beautiful views of nature. A very beautiful university building has been built.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University (PSSOU), Bilaspur, offers financial aid primarily through post-matric scholarships for SC/ST students and fee waivers for meritorious and economically disadvantaged students. These scholarships are disbursed via the Chhattisgarh government scholarship portal and the National Scholarship Portal, supporting tuition fees and maintenance allowances.

Institute Scholarships

ScholarshipEligibilityAmount
Merit-based Scholarship (State)Chhattisgarh domicile, board/entrance exam score above 75%Partial tuition fee waiver
Category-based Fee WaiversSC/ST and other reserved categoriesTuition fee waiver government norms

Government Scholarships

SchemeForAmountPortal
Post-Matric Scholarship for SC/STSC/ST students pursuing higher educationFull course fee + maintenance allowance (varies)Chhattisgarh Scholarship Portal / NSP
Minority Community ScholarshipMinority students with 50%+ in Class 12Varies, reserved 310 scholarships annuallyChhattisgarh Scholarship Portal
National Fellowship and Scholarship for Higher Education of ST StudentsST students in graduate and postgraduate professional/technical courses₹12,000 to ₹20,000 per annum depending on courseNational Scholarship Portal (NSP)

External Scholarships

  • UGC Scholarships: Financial aid for higher education students through NSP, including merit and need-based awards

Comparison

Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University (PSSOU) Bilaspur is compared with Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) Mysore as they are leading open universities in India offering distance and online education, recognized for their flexible learning models and significant student outreach.

ParameterPandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University - [PSSOU] BilaspurIndira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) Mysore
TypeState Open University (Private)Central Government Open UniversityState Open University
Established200419851996
NIRF 2025Not Ranked in Open University category#1 (Open Universities)#2 (Open Universities)
NAACA+A+A
Fee (Total)₹0.05 L (Approx.)₹0.03 L (Approx.)₹0.04 L (Approx.)
Highest Package₹5 LPA₹6 LPA₹4 LPA
Average Package₹3 LPA₹3.5 LPA₹2.5 LPA

Key Strengths

  • Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University - [PSSOU] Bilaspur: Strong regional presence in Chhattisgarh with diverse UG, PG, diploma, and doctoral programs and an A+ NAAC accreditation.
  • Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU): Largest open university in India with extensive course offerings, nationwide and international reach, and top NIRF ranking.
  • Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) Mysore: Known for integrating digital tools in distance education and strong student support services.

Campus & Infrastructure

Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University (PSSOU) is located on a sprawling 70-acre campus in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, featuring lush greenery and two small ponds near the main entrance that enhance the campus environment. The university infrastructure includes academic, administrative, examination buildings, a library, bank, canteen, and residential facilities for staff and guests.

Campus Details

ParameterDetails
Area70 acres
LocationBilaspur, Chhattisgarh
Nearest RailwayBilaspur Junction (approx. 10 km)
Nearest AirportSwami Vivekananda Airport, Raipur (approx. 120 km)

Academic Facilities

  • Library: Reference library with automation, online subscriptions to research journals, digital archives, and inter-library loan services
  • Labs: Departmental laboratories in Botany, Chemistry, Physics, Zoology, and Computer Science equipped with state-of-the-art equipment
  • Classrooms: Smart classrooms with interactive whiteboards, multimedia facilities, whiteboards, projectors, and ergonomic seating

Hostel

TypeCapacityFee/Year
BoysData not specifiedData not specified
GirlsData not specifiedData not specified

Other Facilities

  • On-campus banking services with multiple ATMs
  • Cafeteria
  • Auditorium for seminars, workshops, and cultural events
  • Sports facilities including grounds for outdoor sports and indoor courts for badminton and table tennis
  • IT infrastructure with high-speed internet connectivity and computer labs equipped with latest software tools
  • Guest house and staff residential buildings
  • Three helipads for important visitors

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the eligibility criteria for admission to undergraduate courses at PSSOU?

For bachelor's degree programs at PSSOU, students must have completed 10+2 from a recognized board. Specific eligibility may vary by course, so it is advisable to check the course-wise requirements on the official website.

Does PSSOU conduct any entrance exams for admission?

PSSOU primarily offers distance education and does not conduct a common entrance exam for most courses. Admission is generally based on eligibility and submission of required documents.

What is the fee structure for the Bachelor of Arts (BA) program at PSSOU?

The fee for the BA program at PSSOU is affordable and designed for distance learners, typically ranging around ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 per year, but exact fees should be confirmed from the university's official fee schedule.

Are scholarships available for students at Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University?

PSSOU offers scholarships primarily for reserved categories and economically weaker sections government norms. Students can apply through the university’s scholarship portal or during admission.

What are the placement opportunities and average salary packages for PSSOU graduates?

About 20-30% of students participate in placement drives annually. The average monthly salary ranges from ₹15,000 to ₹30,000, with most recruiters from sales, marketing, and teaching sectors.

Does PSSOU provide internship opportunities for its students?

The university facilitates internships mainly through its placement cell, focusing on sectors like marketing and social work, but internships are not mandatory for all courses.

What specializations are offered under the Faculty of Social Science at PSSOU?

The Faculty of Social Science offers specializations including Political Science, Public Administration, Sociology, and Social Work.

How qualified is the faculty at Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Open University?

PSSOU faculty members are experienced and hold advanced degrees in their respective fields, contributing to quality distance education and research guidance.

What research facilities are available at PSSOU?

PSSOU provides research facilities including a reference library, online journal subscriptions, statistical software like SPSS and AMOS, media laboratories, and science labs for Botany, Chemistry, Physics, and Zoology.

Is hostel accommodation available for students at PSSOU?

Hostel facilities for both boys and girls are available during contact classes. Students need to contact the program coordinator for hostel allotment and related details.

What is the campus environment like at PSSOU?

The university campus spans 70 acres with lush greenery, two ponds, and well-maintained academic and administrative buildings, providing a peaceful study environment.

Are there any cultural or extracurricular activities organized at PSSOU?

PSSOU organizes annual cultural fests, workshops, seminars, and celebrations like Yoga Day and Teacher’s Day to encourage student participation and overall development.

How accessible is PSSOU for students commuting from nearby cities?

The main campus is located on Koni-Birkona Road, Bilaspur, about 8.8 km from Rajiv Gandhi Chowk Bus Stop and 10.6 km from Ghutku Railway Station, with local transport options available.

Can students pursue part-time jobs while studying at PSSOU?

Since PSSOU offers distance education, students have flexible schedules allowing them to pursue part-time jobs alongside their studies.

Is there a dress code for students attending contact classes at PSSOU?

PSSOU does not enforce a strict dress code; however, students are expected to dress modestly and appropriately during contact classes and university events.

How does PSSOU compare with other open universities in India in terms of accreditation?

PSSOU is accredited with an A++ grade by NAAC and is approved by the UGC, placing it among the top-tier open universities in India.

What is the return on investment (ROI) for courses offered by PSSOU?

Given its affordable fee structure and decent placement packages (₹15,000 to ₹30,000 monthly), PSSOU offers a good ROI, especially for working professionals and distance learners.

Does PSSOU have an active alumni network?

PSSOU has a growing alumni network engaged through university events and social platforms, helping current students with mentorship and career guidance.

Are laptops or specific technical devices required for PSSOU courses?

While not mandatory, having a laptop or computer with internet access is recommended for accessing online study materials and submitting assignments.

What payment options are available for fee submission at PSSOU?

Students can pay fees online via the university portal or through designated bank branches associated with PSSOU, ensuring convenient payment methods.

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