BAOU Distance Education 2026: Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU) is a university in Gujarat. It offers affordable distance education courses. Admission for UG and PG courses has started at BAOU for the 2026 session. The tentative last date to apply for BAOU admission will be 31st January 2026*.
You can choose courses from a variety of bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Major subjects that BAOU offers are languages including Hindi, English, Gujarati, etc. You also get courses in Science, arts, and social studies in this university. The admission process is online. To apply, visit the official website at baou.edu.in.
BAOU Latest Updates 2026:
- Jan Update: BAOU admission process starts soon for the distance learning session 2026-27 and the last date to apply as a student at BAOU is 31st January 2026*. Source
BAOU Distance Education Admission 2026 Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
| University Full Name | Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University |
| University Short Name | BAOU |
| Establishment | 1994 |
| Type of University | Public (State Open University) |
| Departments | School of Humanities & Social Sciences, School of Commerce & Management, School of Education, School of Computer Science, and others |
| Popular Courses | BA, B.Com, B.Ed (Special Education), BCA, MA, M.Com, MBA |
| Mode of Admission | Online application |
| Selection Criteria | Merit-based, based on previous academic qualifications |
| Name of Entrance Exam | No entrance exam for most courses; some may have specific eligibility criteria |
| Website URL | baou.edu.in |
| Application Fee | Typically around INR 200 (varies by course) |
| Approval | University Grants Commission (UGC) |
BAOU Distance Education Popular Programs
- Bachelor of Arts (BA): Eligibility: 10+2 with 45% marks. Core subjects include History, Psychology, and Sociology. Duration: 3 years. Fee: INR 4,000/year for males, INR 4,000/year for females.
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom): Eligibility: 10+2 with 40% marks. Core subjects include Accounting, Business Management, and Economics. Duration: 3 years. Fee: INR 3,700/year for males, INR 1,200/year for females.
- Master of Arts (MA): Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with 45% marks. Specializations in Literature, History, and Economics. Duration: 2 years. Fee: INR 5,000/year.
- Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA): Eligibility: 10+2 with 45% marks in any stream. Core subjects include Programming, Database Management, and Web Development. Duration: 3 years. Fee: INR 4,000/semester.
Benefits of Choosing BAOU Admission
- Flexible Learning System: BAOU offers a comprehensive distance learning platform that allows students to study at their own pace. The university provides well-structured study materials and online resources accessible 24/7.
- Affordable Education: The university maintains highly competitive fee structures with special concessions for female students. Various scholarships are available for SC/ST students and economically weaker sections.
- Quality Study Materials: Students receive professionally designed study materials in both print and digital formats. The university regularly updates course content to match industry requirements.
- Strong Support System: BAOU maintains 270+ study centers across Gujarat, providing easy access to academic support. Regular counseling sessions are conducted to help students with their studies.
About BAOU
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU), established in 1994, stands as Gujarat’s premier distance learning institution. Located in Ahmedabad, the university has earned an A++ grade from NAAC and maintains strong recognition from the UGC. With 7 regional centers and over 270 study centers, BAOU serves more than 800,000 learners across Gujarat.
The university operates through various schools offering 80+ programs in humanities, commerce, science, and management. BAOU’s commitment to quality education is evident through its innovative teaching methodologies, comprehensive study materials, and student support services. The university focuses on making higher education accessible to all sections of society, particularly those in remote areas.
BAOU Entrance Examination
- Admission Process: Most BAOU programs follow a merit-based admission system without entrance exams, making education accessible to all qualified candidates.
- Special Programs: Only B.Ed. programs require an entrance examination. The exam fee is approximately INR 500.
- B.Ed. Entrance Test Pattern: Multiple choice questions covering teaching aptitude, General knowledge and current affairs, Basic language proficiency, and Logical reasoning
BAOU Distance Education Admission Process 2026
- Admission Process: Applications are accepted through both online and offline modes. Students can apply through the official website www.baou.edu.in.
- Eligibility: For undergraduate programs, 10+2 pass with minimum marks ranging from 33% to 50%. For postgraduate programs, relevant bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 45% marks.
- Age Limit: No upper age limit for most programs. Minimum age should be 17 years at the time of admission.
- Application Fees: Approx fee for general category: INR 500, SC/ST Category: INR 300, and Female Candidates: INR 300
- Scholarships: Available for SC/ST students, economically weaker sections, and female candidates.
- Selection Criteria: Merit-based admission for most courses, considering marks in qualifying examination.
- University Reservation Policy: Follows Gujarat state reservation policy for SC/ST/OBC categories.
- University Approvals: UGC-DEB recognized, NAAC A++ accredited institution.
How to Apply for BAOU Distance Education Admission
- Visit the official website www.baou.edu.in
- Click on “New Admission” section
- Register using valid email and mobile number
- Fill the BAOU Distance Education application form with accurate details
- Upload required documents in specified format
- Pay application fees online
- Submit the form and note application number
- Track application status through student portal
Required Documents
- 10th and 12th mark sheets (original and copies)
- Passport size photographs (recent)
- Valid ID proof (Aadhar card preferred)
- Address proof
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Migration certificate (if required)
- Previous degree certificates (for PG courses)
- Character certificate from last institution
BAOU Campus and Facilities
- Digital Infrastructure: State-of-the-art digital learning platform serving 800,000+ students. 24/7 access to online resources and study materials.
- Study Centers Network: They have established 270+ study centers in gujarat making academic support and counseling readily available to all students.
- Library Resources: Comprehensive digital library with over 64,000 books and journals. Access to e-resources through an online portal.
- Student Support Services: Dedicated helpdesk, career counseling, and placement assistance available at regional centers.
FAQs
Q: Is a BAOU Distance Education degree valid for government jobs?
A: Yes, degrees from BAOU are recognized by the UGC and are valid for government positions and further education.
Q: Can I study multiple courses simultaneously?
A: Students can pursue one-degree program along with a certificate/diploma course.
Q: What is the fee payment structure of BAOU Distance Education?
A: Fees can be paid annually or semester-wise through an online payment gateway.
Q: Are there any physical classes to attend?
A: While attendance isn’t mandatory, counseling sessions are conducted at study centers on weekends.
Q: How do I connect with my course instructor?
A: Instructors stay in touch with their online program learners in a variety of ways, depending upon the course design.