TNOU: Courses, Admission, Facility

Tamil Nadu Open University (TNOU), established by an Act of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly in October 2002 and commencing academic operations in 2003–04, is the state’s premier open and distance learning institution dedicated to “Education for All and Ever”. Over the past two decades, TNOU has grown remarkably, offering more than 230 programs from certificates and diplomas through UG, PG to M.Phil. and Ph.D across 11 academic schools, 5 support divisions, and supported by a vast network of over 190 Learner Support Centres and 140 Community Colleges.

Accredited with an NAAC ‘A+’ grade (CGPA 3.32) in its very first cycle, TNOU is among the top-performing open universities in India. It holds recognition from UGC‑DEB, NCTE, RCI, and AICTE, and has been granted the prestigious 12(B) status by UGC, enabling access to central funding. The university also maintains international affiliations with the Asian Association of Open Universities and Association of the Commonwealth Universities. TNOU’s achievements include training over 100,000 students in vocational programs alone through its Community Colleges, formalized via a government order in 2008 for skill-based education. In research, it pioneered archaeology excavations of Sangam-era sites and supports UDL studios for accessible learning backed by governmental and philanthropic funding.

The university provides B.A., B.Com, B.Sc., BBA, MBA, MCA, M.A., M.Sc. to Ph.D. and M.Phil., alongside hundreds of certificate, vocational diploma, and skill-development programs in areas such as life skills, digital teaching, and yoga. Its facilities include a digital library with 18,000+ titles, e‑learning through its eBidya LMS, self‑learning materials, interactive CDs, teleconferencing, counseling, and a media centre.

TNOU Highlights 2026

TNOU Courses 2026

Tamil Nadu Open University (TNOU) offers undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate levels, designed to cater to diverse learner needs through flexible open and distance learning. The university provides over 230 courses, including popular programs like BA, B.Com, B.Sc, BBA, BCA, MA, MBA, M.Sc, MCA, and MSW, along with vocational diplomas and industry-aligned certificate programs. Most UG level courses have a duration of 3 years, while PG programs span 2 years. Eligibility typically ranges from 10+2 for UG to a relevant bachelor’s degree for PG and diploma programs. Check below mention courses and other details

TNOU Admission 2026

Tamil Nadu Open University (TNOU) offers flexible, two-cycle admissions (Calendar Year starting January and Academic Year starting July) entirely through its online portal. Prospective students need a valid email, mobile number, digital payment option, scanned photograph, signature, and educational certificates to complete the application . UG programs require 10+2 or equivalent (including 3-year diploma or 2-year ITI), while PG courses require a relevant bachelor’s degree; specialized programs like M.Sc (Mathematics) demand a related undergraduate subject. Ph.D. and M.Phil. aspirants must clear TNOU’s entrance test followed by an interview. Application fees include INR 300 form fee and INR 500 processing fee, with tuition varying by program; full or partial fee waivers apply to transgender individuals, differently-abled students, inmates, and destitute widows under TN state policy

Education iConnect. Admission is largely merit-based and first-come-first-served, except for research and B.Ed. programs which require entrance exams.

How to apply for TNOU?

• Visit tnou.ac.in
• Click “Admission” then “Apply Online”
• Register with email & mobile
• Fill application form
• Upload photo, signature & certificates
• Pay INR 300 application fee online
• Submit and save application
• Track status via portal login

TNOU Facility 2026

Tamil Nadu Open University (TNOU) provides an extensive array of amenities. Modern academic facilities, specialised labs, and student support services are all part of the university's infrastructure, which is intended to enable successful distance learning. The facilities offered by TNOU are

• Academic & Administrative Buildings: The campus comprises a seven-story Administrative Building and a five-story Academic Block, housing various departments, the library, and examination facilities.
• Library: A fully automated library with a collection of over 25,000 books, providing access to a wide range of academic resources.
• Laboratories: Well-equipped laboratories supporting practical education and multidisciplinary research across various disciplines.
• Computer Labs: Modern computer laboratories with high-speed internet and updated educational software for learning and research purposes.
• Centre for University Informatics (CUI): Established to enhance IT empowerment, e-governance, and provide uninterrupted internet connectivity for all stakeholders.
• Electronic Media Production and Research Centre (CEMPR): Dedicated to creating high-quality audio/visual programs and conducting video conferencing for educational purposes.

TNOU FAQs

What types of courses does TNOU offer?

Ans. TNOU offers a wide range of courses including undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, certificate, and research programs.

How can I apply for admission to TNOU?

Ans. You can apply for admission to TNOU online through their official website by filling out the application form and submitting the required documents.

What is the eligibility criteria for UG courses at TNOU?

Ans. For undergraduate courses at TNOU, candidates should have completed 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board.

What is the eligibility criteria for PG courses at TNOU?

Ans. Candidates seeking admission to postgraduate courses at TNOU must have a bachelor’s degree in the relevant field from a recognized university.

Does TNOU conduct entrance exams?

Ans. Most courses at TNOU admit students based on eligibility criteria without entrance exams, but some research and professional courses may require entrance tests.