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Uttarakhand Open University: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Nainital Campus Life
location
Nainital, Uttarakhand
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 10 January 2026

More About UOU

The Uttarakhand Open University was established in 2005, situated in the picturesque city of Nainital, Uttarakhand. It is recognized as a top ranked premium open university, serving a wide student base. Uttarakhand Open University (UOU) has been notably ranked 1st by The Week in 2024 under the Science_Uttarakhand category, a significant achievement for the institution. The university offers various programs across numerous departments, aiming to provide flexible learning opportunities. Further, the institute is committed to fostering academic excellence.

Parameter Details
Established 2005
Location Nainital, Uttarakhand
Faculty Members 77
Faculty:Student Ratio 1:1948
Departments Various departments
  • Rankings & Recognition: Beyond its The Week ranking, the Uttarakhand Open University (UOU) also actively participated in the NIRF 2024 rankings, specifically under the Open_University category. This participation underscores the university's dedication to national educational standards.
  • Faculty Strength: The institution boasts a dedicated team of 77 faculty members, ensuring a strong academic foundation for its diverse student body.

Programs at the Uttarakhand Open University are offered across various departments, providing a wide array of choices for distance learners. The university, often referred to as UOU, emphasizes flexible and accessible education models.

Located in Nainital, the Uttarakhand Open University remains a significant educational institution in the region. With its 77 faculty members, the university continues its mission of providing quality distance learning.

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Faculty Student Ratio

1:1948

Year Of Established

2005

Total Faculty Numbers

77

About Uttarakhand Open University - [UOU] Nainital

Uttarakhand Open University (UOU), established in 2005, is a state public university located in Haldwani, Nainital district, Uttarakhand. It was founded through legislation by the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly and operates as a state open university providing distance education.

UOU is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and accredited by NAAC with a valid grade. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma programs in fields such as arts, science, commerce, management, and computer applications through distance learning. It serves a large student body with dedicated faculty and has made significant contributions to accessible higher education in the region.

Key Highlights

ParameterDetails
Full NameUttarakhand Open University
Established2005
TypeState Public University (Open University)
AffiliationAutonomous State University
Approved ByUGC-DEB
NAAC GradeB (Valid till 2027)
CampusLocated in Haldwani, Nainital, Uttarakhand
CoursesMultiple UG, PG, Diploma, and Certificate programs
Popular ProgrammesMA, M.Sc, MBA, MCA, BBA, B.Com
Fee Range₹4,700 - ₹22,900 per year
Websitehttps://www.uou.ac.in

Courses Offered at UOU

Specializations

Bachelor of ArtsBachelor of Arts in GeographyBachelor of Arts in Mathematics+1

Specializations

Bachelor of Library and Information Science

Specializations

Certification in Computer ApplicationCertification in GeoinformaticsCertification in Naturopathy+9

Specializations

Diploma in Commercial HorticultureDiploma in Front Office Management​Diploma in Hospitality+7

Specializations

Master of Arts in Development StudiesMaster of Arts in EconomicsMaster of Arts in Education+15

Specializations

Master of Social Work in Child ProtectionMaster of Social Work in Counselling

Specializations

Ph.D in BotanyPh.D in ChemistryPh.D in Commerce+21

Specializations

Bachelor of Business AdministrationBachelor of Business Administration

Specializations

Bachelor of CommerceBachelor of Commerce

Specializations

Bachelor of Computer ApplicationBachelor of Computer Application

Specializations

Bachelor of EducationBachelor of Education in Special Education

Specializations

Bachelor of Science

Admission Dates 2026

Uttarakhand Open University (UOU) conducts admissions twice a year for January and July sessions, offering both merit-based and entrance exam-based admissions depending on the program. Entrance exams are required for MBA, B.Ed, and MCA programs, while most other UG and PG courses admit students based on qualifying exam marks or merit. Applications are submitted online through the official university portal.

ProgrammeEventDate
All Programs (July Session)Admission Start01 July 2026
All Programs (July Session)Admission Deadline25 August 2026
All Programs (January Session)Admission StartSecond week of April 2026
All Programs (January Session)Admission Deadline11 May 2026
MBA, B.Ed, MCAEntrance ExamDates as per university notification (usually before admission deadline)
MBAEntrance Exam AcceptedUOU Entrance, CAT, MAT

Admission Process

Uttarakhand Open University (UOU) offers admission through both merit-based and entrance-based routes depending on the programme. Applications are accepted online or offline, with entrance exams required for courses like B.Ed and MBA, while most UG and PG courses admit students based on previous academic performance.

B.Ed Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Visit the official UOU website and navigate to the “Admissions” section.
  2. Register by creating a new admission account with valid details.
  3. Fill out the online application form selecting the B.Ed programme and preferred regional study centre.
  4. Upload required documents including academic certificates and identity proof.
  5. Pay the application fee online through net banking, debit/credit card, or UPI.
  6. Appear for the UOU B.Ed entrance examination conducted by the university.
  7. Participate in counselling based on entrance exam merit list for seat allotment.
  8. Complete admission by paying the programme fees and submitting all verification documents at the study centre.

MBA Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Access the UOU official website and select the MBA admission link.
  2. Create an admission profile and fill the application form with personal and academic details.
  3. Upload necessary documents such as graduation certificates and ID proof.
  4. Pay the application fee online.
  5. Submit valid scores of CAT, MAT, or UOU’s own entrance exam.
  6. Attend group discussion and personal interview rounds if applicable.
  7. Check the merit list and participate in counselling for final seat allocation.
  8. Confirm admission by fee payment and document verification at the designated centre.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

ProgrammeQualificationEntrance ExamMin %Fees (per year)
B.EdGraduation with 50% aggregate (45% for SC/ST/OBC/PWD)UOU B.Ed Entrance Exam50%₹44,300
MBAGraduation with 50% aggregateCAT/MAT/UOU Entrance Exam50%₹35,800
BA/BSc/BCom10+2 or equivalentMerit-based40%₹7,100
MA/MScGraduation in relevant streamMerit-based50%₹14,200

Documents Required

  • 10th and 12th mark sheets and passing certificates
  • Graduation mark sheets and degree certificate (for PG courses)
  • Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC), if applicable
  • Teaching experience certificate (for B.Ed applicants)
  • Valid photo ID proof (Aadhar card, Voter ID, Driving License, Passport)
  • Recent passport-sized photograph and signature
  • Entrance exam scorecard (for B.Ed, MBA)
  • Application fee payment receipt

Nearest Attractions at UOU

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Pantnagar Airport (PGH)

35 km

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Haldwani Bus Stand

9 km

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Dr. Susheela Tiwari Government Hospital

9 km

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Haldwani Railway Station

9 km

Placements 2025

Uttarakhand Open University (UOU) Nainital with a placement rate ranging between 70% and 90%. The highest package reached ₹13.12, while the average package stood at ₹5.75. The university's placement cell actively facilitates recruitment drives and training programs, with top recruiters including Amazon, Dell, Accenture, and ITC.

Placement Statistics

ParameterValue
Highest Package₹13.12
Average Package₹5.75
Median Package₹5.15
Placement Rate70% - 90%
Students Placed884 (postgraduate, 2024 data)

Top Recruiters

IT: Amazon, Dell, Accenture

Consulting: Accenture

Core: ITC, Marriott Group, Le Meridien, Radisson, JW Marriott

Branch-wise Placement

BranchHighestAverage%Placed
Postgraduate Programs₹13.12₹5.7570% - 90%
MA (2024 data)₹4₹887%

Campus Facilities at UOU

Academic Spaces

Academic Block

Administrative Block

Committee Room

Examination Hall

Seminar Hall

Accommodation for Parents

Guest House

Basic Services

ATM Facility

Drinking Water Facilities

Photocopy and Stationery Shop

Disability Services

Accessible Toilets

Assistive Technology Software

Ramps and Accessible Pathways

Entry/Exit Rules

Access Control System

Food Options

Campus Canteen

IT Facilities

Campus-wide Wi-Fi

Central Computer Center

Laboratories

Computer Lab 1

Computer Lab 2

Science Lab (General)

Library

Central Library

Digital Library

Reading Room

Medical Facilities

Emergency Medical Tie-ups

First-Aid Room

Recreational Areas

Common Room

Safety & Security

CCTV Surveillance

Fire Safety Systems

Security Personnel

Sports & Fitness

Indoor Games Area

Student Help Desks

Counseling Cell

Student Support Desk

Transport Services

Parking Facilities

Rankings & Accreditations

Uttarakhand Open University (UOU), Haldwani, is not ranked among the top open universities in the NIRF 2025 Open University category, which lists only three institutions. It does not appear in the overall or state public university rankings by NIRF for 2025. No rankings from QS, India Today, Outlook, or THE are available for UOU in 2025. The university is recognized and participates in NIRF submissions but currently holds no national ranking position.

NIRF 2025

CategoryRankScore
Open UniversityUnrankedNot Listed
Overall UniversityUnrankedNot Listed
State Public University (Uttarakhand)UnrankedNot Listed

Accreditations

  • NAAC: Accredited

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Sanjib Kalita

5

This is a best University. Best institute for open learning. I've done my Master's Degree in Yoga from here as in my state (assam) there was no distance degree course for Yoga so it is the best option for me, I found everybody in this University are friendly and very helpful. Dr. Bhanu Joshi (Yoga Dept.) sir helped me a lot . Thank you everyone

Prince Sain

4

Visited the UOU campus in Haldwani recently—what struck me first was how calm and green the surroundings feel, even though it's in a busy city. The campus is spacious, with broad walkways and lots of open lawns shaded by trees, giving it a peaceful, academic vibe. The central library building is large and well-kept, offering both physical books and digital resources through the campus network—great for serious study. Nearby, the computer labs are open and functional, and Wi-Fi coverage is decent across most areas . Hostel facilities exist for both boys and girls, though they seem part of a separate housing block rather than fully inside the main campus. Rooms share basic amenities like beds, almirahs and fans, and there’s free Wi-Fi inside . Hostels are clean, with separate washrooms and daily upkeep. The campus sports area is lively—you’ll see students playing cricket, volleyball, or indoor games like chess and carrom in the activity zone or auditorium . A well-equipped gym and auditorium with projectors and audio systems are there too for events and seminars . Cafeteria and canteen facilities are located near the academic blocks and cafeteria serves affordable meals and snacks; it’s a good place to grab a bite and connect with students . There’s also a guest room or waiting room for visiting faculty or family members . For much-needed health support, a small medical center provides first aid for students and staff . Administrative offices, exam control rooms, seminar halls, and a reading room all line the main academic block making the campus feel well-organized . I got the sense that UOU’s campus functions as a practical learning hub, supporting distance learners with infrastructure and regional resources. Even though many students study remotely, when you visit Haldwani campus it still feels active and maintained . Overall it felt like a calm, functional campus with good basic infrastructure—just right for study sessions, small events, or quiet walks between classes.

Dr. SAURABH KANDWAL

3

Good . Neat & clean university.Best University for open learning

ramesh kumar kushwaha

1

This is very bad university. They don't pick call or give response of email as well. They won't bother about students

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Uttarakhand Open University (UOU) offers various scholarships primarily for financially disadvantaged students, including SC/ST/OBC categories, minorities, and differently-abled students. Scholarships range from partial tuition fee waivers (10-20%) to full (100%) fee waivers, with some including monthly allowances. Additionally, students can avail government scholarships through the National Scholarship Portal and Uttarakhand state schemes tailored for reserved categories and disabled students.

Institute Scholarships

ScholarshipEligibilityAmount
Merit and Financial Need ScholarshipFinancially disadvantaged students including SC/ST/OBC, minorities, and differently-abled students10% to 100% tuition fee waiver
Direct 20% Tuition Fee DiscountEligible students without examination20% tuition fee waiver

Government Scholarships

SchemeForAmountPortal
Central Scholarship SchemeSC, ST, OBC, Divyang students at UOUVaries, up to full tuition fee reimbursementNational Scholarship Portal (NSP)
Post-Matric ScholarshipSC, ST, OBC, Divyang students at UOUUp to ₹2,50,000 for SC/ST; ₹1,00,000 for OBCNational Scholarship Portal (NSP)
Uttarakhand SC/ST/OBC Students Scholarship SchemeSC/ST/OBC students, Uttarakhand residents₹50 to ₹1,200/month depending on course and categoryState Government Portal

External Scholarships

  • AICTE Pragati Scholarship: ₹30,000 per year for girl students pursuing technical education
  • AICTE Saksham Scholarship: ₹30,000 per year for differently-abled students in technical courses
  • Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme: Financial aid for wards of police and railway personnel

Comparison

Uttarakhand Open University (UOU) Nainital is compared with Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) Mysore as they are the top-ranked open universities in India according to the NIRF 2025 rankings, offering flexible distance education and recognized for their contributions to open and distance learning.

ParameterUttarakhand Open University - [UOU] NainitalIndira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), New DelhiKarnataka State Open University (KSOU), Mysore
TypeGovernmentCentral GovernmentState Government
Established200519851996
NIRF 2025 (Open Universities)Not Ranked in Top 3#1#2
NAAC GradeAA+A
Fee (Total for UG Programs)₹15,000₹18,250₹20,000
Highest Package₹4₹12₹6
Average Package₹2₹5₹3.5

Key Strengths

  • Uttarakhand Open University - [UOU] Nainital: Strong regional presence in Uttarakhand with focus on flexible learning and affordable education for remote learners.
  • Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), New Delhi: Largest open university in India with extensive course offerings, nationwide network of regional centres, and top NIRF ranking.
  • Karnataka State Open University (KSOU), Mysore: Known for integrating digital tools and student-centric initiatives, providing quality education with strong research focus.

Campus & Infrastructure

Uttarakhand Open University (UOU) is located in Haldwani, Nainital, spread over approximately 25 acres. The campus includes administrative and academic blocks, a digital library, video labs, and a green open ground, providing a conducive environment for distance learning and research activities.

Campus Details

ParameterDetails
Area25 acres
LocationHaldwani, Uttarakhand
Nearest RailwayHaldwani Railway Station (approx. 3 km)
Nearest AirportPantnagar Airport (approx. 35 km)

Academic Facilities

  • Library: Central Library with 2000 sq. meters area, equipped with E-Granthalaya software, access to e-books including Pearson e-books (56 titles), and National Digital Library of India resources
  • Labs: CISCO Networking Lab, Video Laboratory
  • Classrooms: Spacious, air-conditioned smart classrooms with Wi-Fi

Other Facilities

  • Community Radio Station ("Hello Haldwani")
  • Conference Room and Seminar Halls
  • Sports Complex including basketball court, table tennis court, and indoor gaming room
  • Medical Room with certified doctors and hygiene facilities
  • Meditation Centre
  • Canteen
  • Free Wi-Fi across campus
  • Water filtration plant
  • Security services

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the eligibility criteria for undergraduate courses at Uttarakhand Open University?

For UG programs, candidates must have passed 10+2 in any stream from a recognized board to be eligible for admission at UOU.

Is there an entrance exam for admission to the MBA program at UOU?

Yes, admission to the MBA program requires clearing an entrance exam conducted by UOU or valid scores from exams like CAT or MAT, along with a minimum 50% graduation aggregate.

How can I apply for admission to Uttarakhand Open University?

Applications can be submitted online through the official UOU website by filling out the form with personal and academic details and uploading required documents.

What is the fee structure for the MBA program at Uttarakhand Open University?

The application fee for the MBA program is ₹1,000; detailed tuition fees vary by course and are available on the official website during admission.

Are scholarships available for students at Uttarakhand Open University?

UOU offers scholarships based on merit and reserved categories; students should check the official site or contact the university for specific scholarship schemes.

Does Uttarakhand Open University provide education loan assistance?

The university facilitates education loan guidance, but students must apply through banks or financial institutions independently.

What are the placement opportunities and average packages at UOU?

UOU provides training and placement support, but placement records and average salary packages are limited due to its distance education focus.

Which companies recruit from Uttarakhand Open University?

Recruitment is mostly local and regional; specific top recruiters are not prominently listed due to the university’s open and distance learning model.

How is the curriculum structured for postgraduate courses at UOU?

PG courses follow a semester system with a curriculum designed as per UGC guidelines, focusing on theory, assignments, and project work.

What research facilities does Uttarakhand Open University offer?

UOU supports research through its Ph.D. programs, equipped with seminar rooms, a library, and ICT facilities for research guidance and workshops.

Are there hostel facilities available on the UOU campus?

UOU does not have official on-campus hostels; students typically stay in nearby private hostels or PG accommodations costing around ₹4,000 to ₹6,000 per month.

What extracurricular activities and clubs are available at UOU?

The university encourages participation in cultural programs, community radio, and workshops, though student clubs are limited due to its distance learning nature.

How safe is the campus and surrounding area of Uttarakhand Open University?

The campus and regional centers maintain security with guards and a green, well-maintained environment, but students staying off-campus should take usual precautions.

Is there a dress code for students attending UOU regional centers or campus?

There is no strict dress code; students are expected to dress modestly and appropriately for academic activities and counseling sessions.

Can students work part-time while studying at Uttarakhand Open University?

Yes, as a distance learning university, UOU students can pursue part-time jobs alongside studies without campus restrictions.

How does Uttarakhand Open University compare with other open universities in India?

UOU is recognized by UGC and offers extensive regional support, but its placement and infrastructure are modest compared to larger open universities like IGNOU.

What is the return on investment (ROI) for courses at Uttarakhand Open University?

Courses at UOU are affordable with low fees, making ROI reasonable for students seeking flexible education, though placement-driven ROI is limited.

Does Uttarakhand Open University have an active alumni network?

UOU maintains an alumni association that facilitates networking and occasional events, but it is less active compared to traditional universities.

Are laptops or specific technology required for UOU courses?

Students are encouraged to have a laptop or computer with internet access for online study materials, assignments, and virtual counseling sessions.

What is the process for counseling and assignment submission at UOU?

Students attend counseling sessions at regional centers and submit assignments online or at learner support centers as per the academic calendar.

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