Tamil Nadu Open University
(TNOU Distance Education)
About About Tamil Nadu Open University Online Chennai
Tamil Nadu Open University Distance Education in Chennai is a prestigious college located in South India for open and distance-learning. It was established in the year 2002 by Government of Tamil Nadu. It has UGC-DEB accreditation, NAAC A+ accreditation as well as worldwide memberships with the top organizations. A variety of valid distance degrees are offered. It covers postgraduate, undergraduate diploma, certification, and diploma programs.
Tamil Nadu Open University distance education is a State-run open university. It offers flexibility to learners to learn at their individual pace. The distance education programs offered by Distance education at TNOU provide top-quality education at a reasonable cost structure. The distance education programs are available in a variety of disciplines.
The university has a variety of regional centres to facilitate better connectivity. There are multiple schools as well as knowledgeable faculty. Program coordinators assist students through their distance education classes. Tamil Nadu Open University distance education programs allow students gain relevant and job-oriented abilities to succeed in their career.
TNOU Distance Accreditations and Approvals
- UGC is recognized by University Grants Commission, confirming its legitimacy in higher education.
- DEB approved by the Distance Education Bureau, allowing the school to offer legitimate distance and online programs.
- NAAC A+: Accredited as an NAAC A+ rating which reflects academic excellence and a strong performance of the institution.
- AICTE: AICTE approval ensures that the institution is in compliance with national guidelines for professional and technical courses.

UGC Entitled
Recognized by the University Grants Commission

Grade NAAC A++ Accredited
Accredited by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council

NIRF Ranking
National Institutional Ranking Framework

AICTE Accredited
All India Council for Technical Education
Tamil Nadu Open University Distance Education Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| University Name | Tamil Nadu Open University |
| Centre Name | Open and Distance Learning |
| Establishment Year | 2002 |
| Approval | UGC-DEB |
| Accreditation | NAAC A+ |
| Program Types | Graduate, Postgraduate, Diploma, Certificate |
| Many Years of Excellence | 23 Years Old |
| Focus Areas | To meet the need of higher educational institutions in the society |
| Student Support Services | Access to open resources, academic planners, and E-SLMs |
| Mode of Education | Open and Distance Learning |
| LMS Portal | Accessible and easy to use |
| Admission Process | Online |
| Student Rating | 4.5/5 |
Advantages of Tamil Nadu Open University Distance Education
- Variety of Programs: There are a range of distance-education courses offered in undergraduate and postgraduate programs, diplomas and certificate programs. The distance-education courses offered in TamilNadu provide valid and recognized certificates.
- The largest student base: More than 10,000 students are continuing or begin their education via distance in TamilNadu. The university will become the largest university offering open and distance-learning programs.
- Academic Planner: Academic Planner Tamil Nadu Open University in Chennai offers a full academic calendar for the entire year. It provides the entire schedule from admission to the end of the year and obtaining the degree.
- Cost-effective Fee Structure: Tamil Nadu Open University is a public university. It offers more than 100 courses and provides reasonable program fees. Students can pursue their studies without financial pressure.
- Electronic Self Learning Resources: The students will be granted access to learning materials that are digital on the official site that is maintained by the University. The materials include self-learning learning resources that aid students in gaining a deeper understanding.
- Direct Admissions: This University invites online applications through its official admissions portal. Tamil Nadu Open University distance education courses are offered directly without entrance tests or tests.
Tamil Nadu Open University Distance Courses with New Fees for 2026
| COURSE NAME | Fee/Year (approx) | DURATION | DEGREE TYPE | EMI AVAILABLE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA | Rs. 2,975 – 4,300 | 3 Years | Bachelor | Yes |
| BSc | Rs. 6,100 – 7,800 | 3 Years | Bachelor | Yes |
| BCom | Rs. 3,600 – 4,300 | 3 Years | Bachelor | Yes |
| BBA | Rs. 4,850 – 5,550 | 3 Years | Bachelor | Yes |
| BCA | Rs. 9,600 – 10,300 | 3 Years | Bachelor | Yes |
| MBA | Rs. 12,600 – 13,300 | 2 Years | Master | Yes |
| MA | Rs. 3,950 – 5,100 | 2 Years | Master | Yes |
| MSc | Rs. 5,600 – 11,300 | 2 Years | Master | Yes |
| MCom | Rs. 5,100 – 5,800 | 2 Years | Master | Yes |
EMI Options for Tamil Nadu Open University Distance Education
TNOU Distance University Scholarships
Yes, Tamil Nadu Open University (TNOU) provides scholarships and financial aid to support students, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds. These are mainly offered through State Government schemes, Community College programs, and Alumni endowments, helping with fee concessions and other financial assistance for distance learners.
Types of Scholarships and Financial Aid at TNOU:
- Government Schemes: TNOU helps students access Tamil Nadu government scholarships for SC/ST/MBC/DNC communities, which often cover tuition and other educational expenses.
- Community College Programs: State-funded scholarships (e.g., G.O. 369/2008, 47/2013) are available through TNOU’s Community Colleges, focusing on skill-based education.
- Alumni Association: Scholarships, prizes, and medals are offered to academically meritorious or economically disadvantaged students, supported by TNOU’s Alumni network and Shiksha forums.
- SC/ST Cell: This cell promotes awareness and assists students from Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities in accessing government scholarships and fellowships.
- How to Apply or Find Scholarships:
- Visit TNOU’s official website for updates and announcements from the SC/ST Cell or general scholarship information.
- Check the Tamil Nadu State Scholarship Portal (SSP) for state-level schemes available to TNOU students.
- Contact TNOU’s Community Colleges directly to learn about scholarships for specific programs.
Study Method of Tamil Nadu Open University in Chennai
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Access to Open Learning Resources | The University provides students access to digital learning tools, helping them gain greater knowledge of their subjects. |
| Self-Learning Study Materials | Tamil Nadu Open University (TNOU) offers digital study materials that allow students to gain in-depth knowledge and solve any academic questions effectively. |
| National Digital Library | Students can access the nation’s electronic library, which contains a wide collection of high-quality and authentic content from all domains. |
| Skill-based Training | Through TNOU’s SWAYAM Online courses, students can take distance-learning programs focused on developing in-demand skills for career growth. |
| Student Interaction | TNOU distance education offers virtual labs, teacher guidance, placement assistance, and an Equal Opportunity Cell to increase interaction and support among students. |
| LMS Portal | Students receive login credentials to access TNOU’s Learning Management System (LMS), which is user-friendly and provides all study materials online. |
TNOU Distance Education Assignment & Exam Evaluation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Transparent Conduct of Examination | At Tamil Nadu Open University (TNOU), faculty members are responsible for preparing exams. They follow all rules and regulations, ensure question papers are secure, and maintain a smooth examination process. |
| Exam Notifications | Students who register for exams online receive timely notifications. Hall tickets and all necessary exam materials are provided well before the exam date. |
| Strict Invigilation | Only authorized university inspectors and invigilators monitor exam centers to ensure a fair and orderly examination process. |
| Assessment Process | If students are unsatisfied with their results, they can apply for Revaluation or Retotalling. A photocopy of answer scripts can be requested within 15 days of result announcement. |
| Conduct and Misconduct | Any violation of exam rules is taken seriously. Misconduct is closely monitored, and students must strictly adhere to all exam regulations under invigilator supervision. |
Why Should You Choose TNOU Chennai distance learning?
- Recognized Distance Education: The University offers a variety of UGC-DEB Approved distance learning courses like BA, BSC, BCOM, MA, MCOM, and more. There are also distinct specialisations within these courses.
- Student Support Student Support: The Tamil Nadu Open University gives students access to all educational tools. It offers printed study material as well as visual learning content and career advice.
- Professional Distance Programs Professional programs like those that offer the Master of Business Administration and Master of Computer Applications, are available by the Tamil Nadu Open University in Chennai.
- Placement Assistance Distance Education Courses at TamilNadu Open University offer a guideline and placement cell for career guidance.
- Learners interact with each other: Students be able to access the library online labs, virtual labs and help with placement, career advice as well as faculty support. Also, you can provide different ways to guard students their rights.
- Highly Experienced Faculty: Students receive guidance and support from well-qualified and experienced faculty members.
Last Date of Admission in TNOU University Distance Education
Tamil Nadu Open University Distance Education Admission Cycle. TNOU offers distance education programs in two main admission cycles every year. January Cycle: Admissions start at the beginning of the calendar year, usually in January. Students can apply for undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate courses. This cycle is ideal for those who want to begin their studies early in the year., July Cycle: The second admission cycle begins around July.
This allows students who missed the January cycle to enroll in the same year. Admissions are done completely online through the official TNOU portal: https://www.tnou.ac.in. Students can choose courses according to their convenience and schedule.. Each cycle has a fixed last date for application submission, which is announced on the official website. The university provides all necessary guidance, study materials, and support after admission.
| Admission Cycle | Details |
|---|---|
| January Admission Cycle | Admissions usually start in Begining of the year in January and classes start soon. |
| July Admission Cycle | Admissions usually start in May and classes begin in July. |
Additional Fees:
Examination Fee: ₹200/- Per Course
Application: ₹500 (one-time) for UG, PG Courses
Note: EMI options available at TNOU Distance Education University
Tamil Nadu Open University Online Admission Process
- Step 1: Check Eligibility & Choose Program: Visit the official TNOU website tnou.ac.in to see available UG, PG, Diploma, and Certificate courses. Make sure you meet the academic requirements for your chosen program.
- Step 2: Monitor Admissions: Keep an eye on the TNOU website for the admission announcement and important dates for the academic session (e.g., 2026-27).
- Step 3: Online Registration: When admissions open, fill out the online application form with your personal and educational details.
- Step 4: Pay Fees: Pay the application fee (usually around INR 500) and the program fee as specified.
- Step 5: Submit Documents: Upload necessary documents such as mark sheets, ID proof, photographs, and other required certificates.
- Step 6: Confirmation: After verification, your admission will be confirmed. TNOU or its study centers may provide guidance throughout this process.
Tamil Nadu Distance Education University Frequently Asked Question
TNOU offers a variety of programs for students through distance learning. This includes undergraduate courses like BA, BCom, BSc, BBA, and BCA, postgraduate programs such as MA, MCom, MSc, MBA, along with diploma and certificate courses.
You can apply online through TNOU’s official website. Fill out the application form, upload the required documents (like mark sheets, photo, ID proof), pay the application fee (around INR 500), and submit before the last date.
For undergraduate programs, students must have completed 10+2 or an equivalent qualification. For postgraduate courses, a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is required.
The application fee is minimal, around INR 500. Tuition fees for UG and PG courses are reasonable, making TNOU an affordable option for distance learning students.
After enrollment, TNOU provides study materials digitally via their online portal. Students also get access to e-learning resources, self-study guides, and other academic support to help them learn effectively from home.
