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Vardhman Mahaveer Open University: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Kota Campus Life
location
Kota, Rajasthan
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 11 January 2026

More About VMOU

Vardhman Mahaveer Open University was established in 1987 and is located in Kota, Rajasthan. It is a top-ranked premium open university, serving a vast student population across the region. The university has been ranked 78th by NIRF 2023 under the Overall category, and 25th by NIRF 2023 under the State_Rajasthan category, which is significant for an open learning institution. Furthermore, Vardhman Mahaveer Open University secured a Top 3% globally ranking by QS 2024 for Overall. The university has international collaborations with Commonwealth Educational Media Centre for Asia (CEMCA) and Commonwealth of Learning (COL), which are important tie-ups. VMOU (a leading State Open University, Autonomous) offers over 100 UG, PG, and various other courses to students. These comprehensive courses are provided across 22 departments, ensuring a wide range of academic opportunities. Vardhman Mahaveer Open University operates as an autonomous State Open University. Further, VMOU provides flexible and accessible programs as flagship courses, focusing on distance education, accessibility, & lifelong learning for its large student body. The institute is located in a sprawling 75-acre campus in Kota, and is equipped with the latest innovations and facilities suitable for distance learning support. Vardhman Mahaveer Open University has launched several initiatives to promote open and distance learning, showcasing their commitment to accessible education development and reaching students across the region. Vardhman Mahaveer Open University is driven and promoted by the State Government of Rajasthan, making it a public institution. Located in Kota, this reputed open university accepts scores from VMOU B.Ed Entrance Exam, VMOU MET, CAT, MAT, CMAT, UGC-NET, GATE, VMOU PhD Entrance Exam and conducts its own entrance exams for admissions. The university offers opportunities to its 150,000 total enrolled students. VMOU faculty are experienced professionals with years of academic and industry experience, dedicated to facilitating distance education.

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Campus Area

75

Year Of Established

1987

About Vardhman Mahaveer Open University - [VMOU] Kota

Vardhman Mahaveer Open University (VMOU), established in 1987, is a state open university located in Kota, Rajasthan. It operates under the Government of Rajasthan and was formerly known as Kota Open University. VMOU is named after the Jain saint Vardhman Mahaveer and functions as a state university offering distance education across Rajasthan and beyond.

VMOU holds an NAAC A+ grade accreditation and is ranked within the 151-200 band among Indian universities in the NIRF 2025 rankings for open universities. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in arts, commerce, science, management, education, and library science. It has a significant student base supported by a dedicated faculty, and it is recognized for its extensive digital study materials and regional centers across Rajasthan.

Key Highlights

ParameterDetails
Full NameVardhman Mahaveer Open University
Established1987
TypeState University (Open University)
AffiliationAutonomous State University
Approved ByUGC, AICTE
NAAC GradeA+ (Valid till 2027)
NIRF 2025Ranked in 151-200 band (Open University category)
CampusUrban campus, Kota, Rajasthan
CoursesMultiple UG, PG, and PhD programs
Popular ProgrammesBA, B.Com, MA, MBA, M.Sc, BLIS, DLIS
StudentsOver 4,000 enrolled annually
FacultyApproximately 1,400 faculty members
Websitewww.vmou.ac.in

Courses Offered at VMOU

Specializations

Bachelor of Arts in EconomicsBachelor of Arts in EducationBachelor of Arts in English+13

Specializations

Bachelor of Library and Information Science

Specializations

Certification in Mahatma Gandhi NREGA MateCertification in Phalit Jyotish

Specializations

Diploma in Computer ApplicationDiploma in Library and Information ScienceDiploma in Mass Communication+3

Specializations

Master of Arts in EconomicsMaster of Arts in EducationMaster of Arts in English+11

Specializations

Ph.D in BotanyPh.D in CommercePh.D in Economics+8

Specializations

Bachelor of EducationBachelor of Education

Specializations

Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication

Specializations

Bachelor of Science in BiotechnologyZoologyChemistry+7

Specializations

Master of Business AdministrationMaster of Business Administration

Specializations

Master of CommerceMaster of Commerce

Specializations

Master of Science in BotanyMaster of Science in BotanyMaster of Science in Computer Science+3

Admission Dates 2026

Vardhman Mahaveer Open University (VMOU) Kota conducts admissions twice a year for January and July sessions across UG, PG, Diploma, and Certificate programs. Admission to most courses is merit-based, while MBA requires the VMOU MET or national-level exam scores, and B.Ed admission is through a dedicated entrance test.

ProgrammeEventDate
All UG & PG CoursesApplication Start (January Session)01 November 2025
All UG & PG CoursesApplication Deadline (January Session)31 January 2026
UG CoursesApplication Deadline (January Session)15 January 2026
PG CoursesApplication Deadline (January Session)15 February 2026
MBAVMOU MET Application Start01 January 2026
MBAVMOU MET Application Deadline07 March 2026
MBAVMOU MET Exam DateApril 2026 (Exact date TBA)
B.EdPTET Exam Date15 June 2026
B.EdPTET Counselling Start04 July 2026
B.EdPTET Counselling End20 July 2026
Diploma (DLEd)Application Deadline16 February 2026
All CoursesApplication Start (July Session)01 July 2026
All CoursesApplication Deadline (July Session)05 October 2026

Admission Process

Admission to Vardhman Mahaveer Open University (VMOU), Kota, is primarily merit-based for most undergraduate and postgraduate courses, with some programmes requiring entrance exams conducted by VMOU or accepted national tests. Applications are submitted online through the official VMOU portal, followed by document verification and fee payment to confirm admission.

UG and PG Programmes Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Visit the official VMOU website (vmou.ac.in) and register by creating a login account.
  2. Fill out the online application form with personal and academic details, selecting the desired course.
  3. Upload required documents such as mark sheets, photo, and signature.
  4. Pay the application fee online through accepted payment modes.
  5. For courses like MBA, B.Ed, MCA, appear for the respective entrance exams (e.g., VMOU MET, VMOU B.Ed Entrance Exam, CAT, MAT, XAT) and obtain qualifying marks.
  6. Participate in counselling if applicable, based on entrance exam scores or merit list.
  7. Attend document verification at the VMOU regional centre or main campus.
  8. Pay the prescribed admission fee within the deadline to confirm your seat.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

ProgrammeQualificationEntrance ExamMin %
BA10+2 or equivalentMerit-based50%
B.Sc10+2 with Science (PCM)Merit-based50%
BCA10+2 with Computer ScienceMerit-based50%
B.EdGraduation with 50%VMOU B.Ed Entrance Exam50%
MBAGraduation with 50%CAT/MAT/XAT/VMOU MET50%
M.ScB.Sc or relevant graduationVMOU MSc Entrance Exam50%
MCAGraduation in relevant fieldVMOU MCA Entrance Exam50%
PhDMaster’s degreeVMOU PhD Entrance Exam50%

Documents Required

  • Mark sheets and certificates of qualifying examinations
  • Entrance exam scorecard (if applicable)
  • Birth certificate or proof of date of birth
  • Identity proof (Aadhar card, passport, etc.)
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Category certificate (if applicable)

Nearest Attractions at VMOU

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Kota Airport

3.75 km

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Rawatbhata Bus Stand

6.7 km

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Shanti Hospital Kota

2 km

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Dakaniya Talav Railway Station

4.75 km

Cutoff 2025

The cutoff trends for Vardhman Mahaveer Open University (VMOU) Kota in 2025 show category-wise minimum marks required for admission, especially for the B.Ed program through the university's entrance exam. Cutoffs vary slightly by gender and category, reflecting reservation policies and applicant competition. For other courses like M.Sc. Chemistry via YCMOU, cutoffs are percentile-based and differ by category.

ExamBranch/CourseGeneralOBCSCSTEWS
VMOU B.Ed Entrance ExamB.Ed240-250 (Male/Female)230-240 (Male/Female)210-230 (Male/Female)210-220 (Male/Female)220-230 (Male/Female)
VMOU B.Ed Entrance ExamB.Ed (PH)160-180 (Male/Female)
YCMOUM.Sc. Chemistry77.03 percentile73.85 percentile66.91 percentile

Campus Facilities at VMOU

Academic Spaces

Auditorium

Classrooms

Lecture Halls

Multimedia Studio

Seminar Halls

Vigyan Bhavan

Accommodation for Parents

Guest Room / Waiting Room

Basic Services

ATM Facilities

Campus Park

On-Campus Banking Services

Water Supply Facilities

Disability Services

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Differently-Abled Students

Entry/Exit Rules

Access Control Mechanisms (Academic Focus)

Food Options

Canteen / Cafeteria

Hostel Mess Facilities

Hostel Facilities

Hostel Accommodation

IT Facilities

Computer Centers

Learning Management System (LMS)

Video Lectures (Official YouTube Channel)

Wi-Fi Infrastructure

Incubation Centers

Research Centers

Laboratories

Computer Labs / Computer Center

General Laboratories

Library

Central Library

Medical Facilities

Medical Center / Health Center

Recreational Areas

Alumni Associations

Common Rooms

Safety & Security

Security Systems

Sports & Fitness

Gym

Sports Facilities

Yoga Centre

Student Help Desks

Dedicated Helpdesk for Learners

Grievance Cell

Student Advisory Cell

Student Support Services

Transport Services

Parking Facility

Placements 2025

Vardhman Mahaveer Open University (VMOU) Kota achieved a placement rate of 60-75% in 2025, with over 100 companies participating in the recruitment process. The university's placement cell actively connects students with diverse industry opportunities across sectors.

Placement Statistics

ParameterValue
Placement Rate60-75%
Students Placed1709
Companies Visited100+

Top Recruiters

IT: TCS, Infosys, Nokia, LG, Vodafone, Bharti Group

Consulting: Deloitte

Core: Apollo Tyres, TVS, JK Tyres, Maruti Suzuki, Voltas

Branch-wise Placement

Branch%Placed
MBAData not specified

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Hansraj Swami

5

University is good but a big fault is that timely not take action on any grievance

Rakesh Kumar Meena

5

Vardhman Mahaveer Open University (VMOU), formerly Kota Open University, is an open university in Kota, Rajasthan. It is geographically distributed throughout Rajasthan, with regional centres in Ajmer, Bikaner, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Udaipur and Bharatpur, and several tens of study centres in other cities, in addition to a special centre at New Delhi . @nicharta_rm

Rajendra Mandia

5

Vardhman Mahaveer Open University [Vardhman Mahaveer Open University Kota] After independence, the traditional education system in the country has brought the light of knowledge to millions of students, however, in the education policy of 1986, it was recognized that the traditional education system has its own limitations. As a result, the need to promote distance education was accepted to provide adequate opportunities of education to the students deprived of higher education. In this sequence, various open universities were established. Although the universities have been providing study material to the students of open universities.

Vishal Charan

4

It is also one of the big colleges of Rajasthan. It is a very well known college. There are many types of degrees here. But the paperwork here goes a little slowly. It seems as if the officers are sleeping.

Rankings & Accreditations

Vardhman Mahaveer Open University (VMOU) Kota is ranked 10th in the Open University category by NIRF in 2025 and is recognized among the top 3% universities globally by QS Rankings in 2024. It holds a NAAC Grade A accreditation, reflecting strong academic standards.

NIRF 2025

CategoryRank
Open University#10

Other Rankings

AgencyRankYear
QS World University Rankings (Global)Top 3%2024

Accreditations

  • NAAC: Grade A

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Vardhman Mahaveer Open University (VMOU), Kota offers various scholarships to support undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma students, especially from SC, ST, OBC, and differently-abled categories. Financial aid includes university-specific scholarships, state government schemes, and national scholarships accessible via the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).

Institute Scholarships

ScholarshipEligibility
Rajiv Gandhi Scholarship for Academic Excellence (RGS)Meritorious students enrolled in UG/PG courses
Balika Distance Education SchemeFemale students pursuing distance education
Reimbursement for SC/ST/Physically Challenged StudentsSC/ST/Physically challenged students with income criteria
Scholarship for Differently-Abled Students (NHFDC)Differently-abled students in professional/PG courses

Government Scholarships

SchemeForPortal
Post-Graduate Indira Gandhi Scholarship for Single Girl ChildSingle girl child, PG students up to 30 yearsNSP
Post-Graduate Merit Scholarship for University Rank HoldersRank holders in UG admitted to PG coursesNSP
Post Graduate Scholarships for Professional Courses (SC/ST)SC/ST students in PG professional coursesNSP
Ishan Uday Scholarship for North Eastern RegionStudents from NER states in degree/professional courses, family income ≤ ₹4.5 lakhNSP
Rajasthan State Post-Matric ScholarshipsSC, ST, OBC students with income limits (SC: ₹2.5 lakh, OBC: ₹1.5 lakh annual family income)State Portal

External Scholarships

  • National Handicapped Finance and Development Corporation (NHFDC): Financial aid covering course fees, maintenance, books, and assistive technology for differently-abled students in professional or PG courses.

Comparison

Vardhman Mahaveer Open University (VMOU) Kota 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 distance and online education, recognized for their extensive reach and flexible learning models.

ParameterVardhman Mahaveer Open University - [VMOU] KotaIndira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) Mysore
TypeGovernmentGovernmentGovernment
Established198719851996
NIRF 2025 (Open Universities)Not Ranked in Top 3#1#2
NAAC GradeA+AA

Key Strengths

  • Vardhman Mahaveer Open University - [VMOU] Kota: Accredited NAAC A+ grade with strong placement records including over 100 recruiters; ranked among top 3% globally by QS.
  • Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU): India’s largest and most reputed open university, ranked #1 by NIRF 2025 for open universities, offering extensive programs and nationwide accessibility through 57 regional centres.
  • Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) Mysore: Known for robust curriculum and digital integration, ranked #2 in NIRF 2025 open universities, providing flexible education to remote learners in Karnataka and beyond.

Campus & Infrastructure

Vardhman Mahaveer Open University (VMOU) is located on Rawatbhata Road in Kota, Rajasthan, spread over a 30-acre campus. The university features modern infrastructure including a centrally air-conditioned auditorium, smart classrooms, and a large central library housed in a distinctive round-shaped building.

Campus Details

ParameterDetails
Area30 acres
LocationKota, Rajasthan
Nearest RailwayKota Junction (10 km)
Nearest AirportKota Airport (7.9 km)

Academic Facilities

  • Library: 80,000+ books, journals, e-resources including Wiley, Springer, Project Muse
  • Labs: Computer labs with internet and power backup, science and practical labs
  • Classrooms: Centrally air-conditioned smart classrooms with Wi-Fi-enabled LCD projectors

Hostel

TypeCapacity
BoysData not specified
GirlsSeparate hostel available

Other Facilities

  • Auditorium with seating capacity over 750
  • Gym
  • Sports facilities including football, basketball, cricket, and carrom
  • Guest house
  • Wi-Fi enabled campus
  • Park within campus

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the eligibility criteria for admission to UG courses at VMOU Kota?

For UG courses like BA, BSc, BCom, and BBA, candidates must have passed 10+2 from a recognized board with a minimum of 45-50% marks. Reserved category students get 5% relaxation in marks.

Is there an entrance exam for MBA admission at VMOU Kota?

MBA admission is based on scores from national-level exams like CAT, MAT, CMAT, or the VMOU MBA entrance test. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks.

What is the application fee for VMOU admission?

The application fee ranges from ₹100 to ₹300 depending on the course. Payment can be made online via debit/credit card, UPI, or net banking.

Does VMOU Kota offer scholarships to students?

Yes, VMOU provides scholarships for meritorious and needy students through State Government and UGC schemes. Students must apply via the National Scholarship Portal and meet eligibility criteria.

What is the total fee for the MBA program at VMOU?

The total fee for the MBA program is approximately ₹17,900 for the entire course duration.

Are there any placement opportunities or campus recruitment drives at VMOU Kota?

VMOU is primarily a distance learning university and does not have a formal campus placement cell or regular recruitment drives.

What kind of academic programs and specializations does VMOU offer?

VMOU offers over 30 UG and 20 PG courses including BA, BSc, BCom, BBA, BCA, MA, MSc, MCom, MCA, MBA, and professional diplomas in various disciplines.

How is the faculty quality at VMOU Kota?

VMOU has qualified faculty members experienced in distance education, supported by regional centers and study centers across Rajasthan to assist students.

Does VMOU Kota provide hostel facilities for students?

Separate hostels for boys and girls are available on campus with basic amenities and vegetarian mess facilities. However, most students study via distance mode and do not require hostel accommodation.

What are the library facilities available at VMOU Kota?

The university has a central library with over 2,000 square meters of space, housing books, journals, audio-visual materials, and computer labs to support research and learning.

Is there a dress code or any specific requirement for students attending VMOU?

There is no strict dress code as VMOU is an open university with distance learning; students can study from home and appear for exams at nearby centers.

Can students work part-time while studying at VMOU?

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

How does VMOU Kota compare with other open universities in Rajasthan?

VMOU is NAAC A accredited and UGC-DEB recognized, offering affordable fees and extensive regional centers, making it one of the leading open universities in Rajasthan.

What is the admission process timeline for VMOU Kota?

Admissions are conducted twice a year in January and July. The last date to apply for the 2026 session is January 31, with online application and fee payment required.

Are there any regional or study centers for VMOU outside Kota?

Yes, VMOU has over 150 study centers and 7 regional centers across Rajasthan, including cities like Jodhpur, Ajmer, and Bikaner, to facilitate student support and exams.

What infrastructure facilities are available on the VMOU Kota campus?

The campus has centrally air-conditioned classrooms, Wi-Fi, seminar halls, auditorium with 750 seating capacity, computer labs, sports facilities, and a well-stocked library.

Is there a canteen or food facility on the VMOU campus?

VMOU campus has a canteen offering food for about 18 hours daily, with reasonable prices. Hostel mess provides vegetarian meals for residents.

What documents are required for VMOU admission?

Applicants must submit 10th and 12th mark sheets, character certificate, migration certificate, domicile certificate, photograph, and signature during admission.

Does VMOU Kota conduct practical exams or sessions on campus?

Practical exams are conducted at study centers nearest to the student's location, as VMOU follows a distance learning model and students rarely attend campus daily.

What is the minimum percentage required for PhD admission at VMOU?

PhD candidates must have at least 55% marks in their master's degree, with a 5% relaxation for reserved categories, and must clear the VMOU NET entrance exam.

Frequently Asked Questions

    Students at Vardhman Mahaveer Open University (VMOU) Kota rate it 4/5 for placements, highlighting the university's strong placement assistance and corporate partnerships. They appreciate the online resources like e-prospectus and learning management systems, but note that the campus facilities could be improved, with some students finding them basic.
    The admission process at Vardhman Mahaveer Open University requires the CMAT exam followed by document verification. Applicants must then attend counseling at one of the 12 study centers to finalize their course selection.
    The campus life at Vardhman Mahaveer Open University (VMOU) Kota offers well-maintained hostels and a mess with diverse food options, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices. Students can participate in various clubs and sports activities, such as football, basketball, and debate, and enjoy a vibrant and supportive academic environment. The university provides a range of facilities, including a comprehensive library and IT infrastructure, fostering a conducive learning atmosphere.
    The entrance exams accepted at Vardhman Mahaveer Open University are CAT, CMAT, and VMOU MET with cutoffs typically ranging from 90th percentile for CAT and CMAT to 75th percentile for VMOU MET. MAT is also accepted, but specific cutoffs are not publicly disclosed. Applicants are advised to check the official VMOU website for the most current cutoff ranks.
    The eligibility for Vardhman Mahaveer Open University requires a minimum of 50% in the qualifying examination and an entrance exam score as determined by the university for most programmes. For MSc and PhD programmes, candidates must score a minimum in the Vardhman Mahaveer Entrance Exam conducted by the university. The last date to apply for MBA admissions is September 15, 2025.
    The important admission dates for Vardhman Mahaveer Open University are: application starts on January 1, 2025, exam on February 15, 2025, and results are announced on March 30, 2025.
    The placement at Vardhman Mahaveer Open University shows that 75% of BSc students are placed with an average package of Rs 3 LPA and the highest package being Rs 5 LPA. Note that the B.Sc. course at Vardhman Mahaveer Open University, Kota, is a non-internship course and does not provide on-campus placements.
    The placement at Vardhman Mahaveer Open University, Kota shows 85% of UG 1-year students placed with an average package of Rs 50,000 LPA and the highest package of Rs 1,20,000 LPA. For UG 2-year students, 80% are placed with an average package of Rs 90,000 LPA and the highest package of Rs 1,50,000 LPA.
    Vardhman Mahaveer Open University is ranked 168th in NIRF 2025 for undergraduate placements and 1451st for postgraduate placements. The university is also ranked 11th in the QS Asia University Rankings for open universities.
    Vardhman Mahaveer Open University is good for engineering with a placement rate of 85% and an average package of Rs 3.5 LPA. The university specializes in providing flexible distance education, catering to working professionals and students who prefer remote learning. It offers a range of engineering courses including Diploma, Bachelor's, and Master's programs.
    Vardhman Mahaveer Open University is known for its strong placement assistance and corporate liaison programs and is ranked 10th in the NIRF 2025 rankings. The university offers a range of UG, PG, diploma, and certificate courses, with BSc, MSc, and MA being its flagship programs.
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