In 2025, distance education remains one of the most practical options for students who cannot attend regular college due to work, finances, or location. Among the most sought-after programmes is the
BA in Political Science
, ideal for UPSC and state civil service aspirants, as well as those planning careers in law, policy, or governance. This course covers key subjects like political theory, public administration, and international relations, all while offering the flexibility to study from home.
In this article, you’ll find a comparison of top UGC-DEB-approved universities that offer this programme via distance mode, with details on fees, eligibility, admission, and career scope.
Why Choose a Distance BA in Political Science in India?
A distance BA in Political Science offers several advantages, especially if you're preparing for competitive exams or balancing studies with other responsibilities. It allows you to learn at your own pace without relocating or quitting your job. The course fees are significantly lower than those of regular colleges, making it affordable and accessible, particularly for students in rural or remote areas.
Since UGC-DEB-approved universities offer the degree, it holds the same recognition as a regular one and is valid for UPSC, state PSCs, and postgraduate studies like an MA in Political Science.
Eligibility and Admission 2025: Distance BA in Political Science
To be eligible for a distance BA in Political Science, you must have:
- Passed 10+2 from a recognised board (any stream)
- No age limit, so the course is open to freshers, working professionals, or retired individuals
Most universities do not require an entrance exam. The admission process generally includes:
- Filling out the online application form on the university’s portal
- Uploading scanned documents like marksheets, ID proof, and photographs
- Paying the course fee (annually or semester-wise, depending on the university)
For the 2024–25 session, universities like IGNOU and DU SOL typically open admissions in June–August (July cycle) and again in November–January (January cycle).
10 Best UGC-Approved Universities for Distance BA Political Science
Below is a list of UGC-DEB-approved universities in India offering a BA in Political Science through distance mode, along with details on course structure, fees, and admission timelines.
- Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
- Location: New Delhi
- Mode of Delivery: Printed study material, online resources, regional learning centres
- Course Duration: 3 years standard, up to 6 years maximum
- Fees: ₹9,600 total
- Admission Cycle: Twice a year – January and July; July 2025 last date extended to July 31
- Delhi University – School of Open Learning (DU‑SOL)
- Location: New Delhi
- Mode of Delivery: Printed study material, online options
- Course Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
- Fees: Total ≈ ₹31,860 (2025–26)
- Admission Cycle: June–September for the 2025–26 session (closes around Sep 15)
- Tamil Nadu Open University (TNOU)
- Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- Mode of Delivery: Printed materials, e‑SLMs, regional centres
- Course Duration: 3–6 years
- Fees: Very affordable (estimations around ₹7,700–10,000 total)
- Admission Cycle: Two cycles – academic year (July–June) and calendar year (January–December)
- Netaji Subhas Open University (NSOU)
- Location: Kolkata, West Bengal
- Mode of Delivery: Printed materials, regional study centres, online support
- Course Duration: 3 years (with flexible extension)
- Fees: Estimated around ₹9,900–10,000 total
- Admission Cycle: Typically once or twice a year (confirm with university portal)
- Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU)
- Location: Hyderabad (Telangana)
- Mode of Delivery: Study centres, printed materials, online support
- Course Duration: 3 years (extendable up to 6 years)
- Fees: Approx ₹5,500–7,900 total
- Admission Cycle: Usually once a year (summer session)
- Karnataka State Open University (KSOU)
- Location: Mysuru, Karnataka
- Mode of Delivery: Printed materials, regional centres
- Course Duration: 3 years (flexible schedule)
- Fees: Around ₹10,000–30,000 total (varies by course combination)
- Admission Cycle: Generally twice a year (confirm with KSOU portal)
- Nalanda Open University (NOU)
- Location: Patna, Bihar
- Mode of Delivery: Printed materials, online management system (UMIS), regional support
- Course Duration: 3 years (extendable)
- Fees: Estimated ≈ ₹7,200–9,600 total
- Admission Cycle: Usually summer (confirm official portal)
- Annamalai University – Directorate of Distance Education
- Location: Tamil Nadu
- Mode of Delivery: Printed materials, online support
- Course Duration: 3 years (potential extensions)
- Fees: Varies by category (check official website)
- Admission Cycle: Typically once a year
- Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University (MPBOU)
- Location: Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
- Mode of Delivery: Printed study materials, online resources, study centres
- Course Duration: 3 years (Hons option available)
- Fees: Around ₹7,500 total
- Admission Cycle: Once a year – Apply by ~15 September 2025
- University of Mumbai – Institute of Distance & Open Learning (IDOL Mumbai)
- Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Mode of Delivery: Printed material, PCP Centres, online classes
- Course Duration: 3 years (6 semesters, CBCS/NEP aligned)
- Fees: Around ₹16,295 total
- Admission Cycle: July session – Apply by ~20 August 2025
How to Choose the Best Distance Learning University for BA Political Science?
When selecting a distance university for BA in Political Science, it's important to make an informed choice. Here are five key points to guide you:
- Check UGC-DEB Recognition: Only degrees from UGC-DEB-approved universities are valid for government exams or further education.
- Compare Fee Structures: Choose a university that offers quality education within your budget.
- Look for Online Resources: Access to digital classes, e-books, or recorded lectures can make your learning easier.
- Evaluate Student Support: Regional centres and helpdesks matter for exams, queries, and counselling.
- Confirm Eligibility for Exams/MA Admissions: Ensure UPSC, state PSCs, and postgraduate programs accept the degree.
Choosing the right university ensures your degree is recognised and your preparation remains uninterrupted.
Career Scope After Distance BA Political Science
A BA in Political Science from a UGC-DEB-recognised university is valid for most government and private sector roles. Many students use it to prepare for UPSC, SSC, state PSCs, or to pursue an MA in Political Science at reputed institutions.
Common career paths include:
- Civil services and administrative roles
- Teaching or academic research
- Journalism, content writing, or political reporting
- Policy research, NGOs, or think tanks
- Public administration and social research roles
This degree builds critical thinking, analytical skills, and subject expertise, making it suitable for both academic growth and professional success.
Also Read: How Does DU SOL's Online BA in Political Science Compare to IGNOU's Program?
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FAQs
IGNOU charges ₹5,000 per year for BA (Honours) Political Science, totaling ₹15,000 for the complete 3-year program, plus ₹300 registration fee. DU SOL fees are approximately ₹5,495-₹5,525 per year, totaling around ₹16,500 for three years. Both universities offer highly affordable education compared to private institutions, with flexible payment options and scholarship opportunities for eligible students
Yes, you can opt for an MA in Political Science after completing a BA from a distance university approved by UGC-DEB. A BA graduate from any distance university is accepted by both regular and distance universities. The validity remains equal regardless of the format in which you have completed it.
IGNOU and DU SOL hold significant value in the area of distance education. BA Political Science can be done here without being worried about quality. These universities provide nationwide accessibility, study materials, and costs as low as ₹5,000 per year for IGNOU. Meanwhile, Delhi University offers its degree at ₹5,495 per year with proper digital learning resources.
Yes, distance degrees in BA Political Science are valid for UPSC and all government jobs. One key factor that holds importance is that all of these must be UGC-DEB-approved. IGNOU, DU, SQL, and other universities approved by UGC are accepted by UPSC and other government agencies of recruitment. You must have proper documents and verification for the application.
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