Top 20 Online Universities in India: Top Courses, Fee, Ranking 

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Manavta

28 November, 2025

Top 20 Online Universities in India: Top Courses, Fee, Ranking 

Did you know that online education in India is projected to reach a market size of US$18.94 billion by 2029? Amity, Manipal, VIT, SRM, and Chandigarh University are some of the popular UGC-approved online degree colleges in India. UGC-approved online degree courses in India are fast becoming a top choice for quality education. Courses from
UGC approved online universities in India
can be an excellent choice for working professionals looking to upskill or pivot, or fresh graduates aiming to enhance their job prospects. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top 20 online universities in India to help you make an informed decision about your educational future.

Why Choose Online Education Universities?

Before diving into the details of UGC-approved online universities, it’s important to understand why choosing online universities in India can be beneficial. An online degree allows you to learn at your own time and pace. Here are some other advantages of pursuing online degrees in India:


  • 100% Flexibility and Convenience: Study from anywhere, anytime, at your own pace, without compromising your current job or personal life.

  • Pocket-Friendly Education: Unlike regular degrees, studying through UGC-approved online universities in India is more affordable as you save on commuting, accommodation, and other expenses.

  • Quality Education: You get digital study materials, video lectures, live sessions, campus immersion, and various resources for a seamless learning experience.

  • Global Recognition: UGC-approved online degrees are internationally accepted and open doors to global career opportunities.

Also read: Top 10 Universities for Distance Education in India

Types of Online Degree Courses in India

Online universities in India provide a variety of online courses tailored to your needs. Whether you are a working professional, a young professional, or a homemaker, you can choose the course that will help you with your career growth. Here is a list of types of courses that you can explore:

Types of Online CoursesPopular Courses
Online Graduation Courses in IndiaBBA, BCA, BA, BCom, BSc
Online Masters Degree Courses in IndiaMBA, MCA, MCom, MSc
Online Diploma Courses in IndiaDiploma in Cybersecurity, Diploma in AI & ML, Diploma in Financial Management
Online Certificate Courses in IndiaBusiness Management, Digital Marketing, Data Science, Cybersecurity

Exploring the List of Top 20 Online Universities in India

Selecting the top online degree course in India from so many colleges can be challenging. But what if you had a list of the best universities offering accredited online degrees in India? Here is an in-depth look at the top 20 UGC-approved online universities in India. Let’s begin:

Top Online Universities in IndiaFee Range (in INR)
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)INR 9,000 – INR 58,000
Amity University OnlineINR 99,000 – INR 2,99,000
Indian Institute of Management (IIM)INR 10,00,000 – INR 20,00,000
Manipal University JaipurINR 75,000 – INR 2,80,000
Dr DY Patil Vidyapeeth OnlineINR 20,000 – INR 1,89,400
Chandigarh University OnlineINR 1,00,000 – INR 4,00,000
Lovely Professional University OnlineINR 1,00,000 – INR 1,80,000
Symbiosis School for Online and Digital LearningINR 19,000 – INR 3,15,000
Jain University OnlineINR 30,000 – INR 2,50,000
NMIMS CDOEINR 99,000 – INR 4,00,000
Amrita OnlineINR 2,500 – INR 2,85,000
VIT OnlineINR 50,000 – INR 1,80,000
BITS PilaniINR 1,00,000 – INR 6,00,000
ICFAI OnlineINR 1,50,000 – INR 2,00,000
Uttaranchal University OnlineINR 61,200 – INR 1,40,000
Sharda OnlineINR 70,000 – INR 1,05,000
Shoolini UniversityINR 84,000 – INR 2,00,000
UPES OnlineINR 69,000 – INR 2,20,000
SRM OnlineINR 25,000 – INR 1,89,000
OP Jindal Global University OnlineINR 1,00,000 – INR 3,00,000

Let’s explore some of the top online universities in India in-depth, one by one:

1. Indira Gandhi National Open University

IGNOU is a top-ranked open university with an NAAC A+ grade and UGC-recognised online degrees. The university is known for its adaptable, flexible, and affordable online courses. Students receive study materials, recorded lectures, discussion sessions, and continuous assessment support.

IGNOU offers more than 333 online degree courses across various fields, with over 3 lakh students currently enrolled in UG and PG IGNOU courses. These programs help learners upskill and grow professionally.

Let’s take a look at the highlights of IGNOU’s online courses:

ParticularsInformation
Accreditation and RecognitionUGC / NIRF / NAAC
Popular Courses BBTM, BCA, BCom,
MBA,
MA, MCA
General Fee Range (in INR)INR 9,000 – INR 58,000 (excluding exam fees and additional costs)

2. Amity University Online

Amity University Online is a popular online private university. It is the first university to gain UGC approval to offer online education. The university offers a wide range of online UG and PG courses. The university is known for its national and international global recognition. With an online degree at Amity University, you get flexible learning, practical curriculum, industry expert sessions, and industry-expert sessions. Moreover, you would get extensive career support with resume building, interview preparation, personalised mentoring, and more. Additionally, the university provides placement assistance with over 500+ hiring partners. Here are the benefits of the Amity University UGC-approved online degree courses in India:

ParticularsInformation
Accreditation and RecognitionUGC-DEB/AICTE/NAAC/IAU/WES/ACBSP
Popular CoursesBBA, MBA, BCA, MA, MCA, BCom, MAJMC
General Fee Range (in INR)INR 99,000 – INR 2,99,000

3. Indian Institute of Management

IIMs, or the Indian Institutes of Management, are the most popular management schools recognised globally. IIMs offer both online and regular management courses. There are a total of 21 IIMs spread across India. They can be divided into BLACKI and baby IIMs. The top-most IIMs are IIM Bangalore, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Calcutta, Kozhikode, and Indore. These IIMs offer online MBA, hybrid MBAs, and other management courses. These institutes focus on an application-focused MBA curriculum through case studies, simulations, summer internships, and real-world industry projects. Moreover, you would get experienced faculty expertise, placement opportunities, and a stellar alumni network.

ParticularsInformation
Accreditation and RecognitionVaries depending on the IIM branch
Popular CoursesMBA, Executive MBA
General Fee Range (in INR)INR 10,00,000 – INR 20,00,000

4. Manipal University Jaipur Online

With over 70+ years of legacy in academic excellence, Manipal University Online offers UGC recognised online degree courses in India. It provides a broad range of UG and PG online courses.

This university is another very popular online degree university. The university focuses more on making education accessible and flexible for everyone. With courses available in a 100% online format, you can learn at your own pace from anywhere in the world.

Moreover, it provides a wide range of new-age certifications and industry-relevant degrees, with the latest skills and tools, boosting your CV. Furthermore, you would receive full placement support, from training to job placement drives.

ParticularsInformation
Accreditation and RecognitionNAAC/NIRF/NBA/UGC/AICTE
Popular CoursesMBA, MCA, MCom, BBA, BCA
General Fee Range (in INR)INR 75,000 – INR 2,80,000

5. Dr D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth Online

D.Y. Patil University is one of the popular online universities in India. It is known for its academic excellence and innovative learning methodology. The university offers a wide range of self-learning material, 980+ hours of e-tutorials, 750+ hours of digital content, and 400+ hours of additional learning videos.

School of Online Learning DY Patil provides a wide range of UG, PG, diploma, and certificate courses. Moreover, this top online university in India offers placement opportunities and industry partnerships. Here are some of the other highlights of
DY Patil Online courses:

ParticularsInformation
Accreditation and RecognitionUGC-DEB/NAAC/NIRF/AICTE
Popular CoursesMBA, MBA – WP, BBA, Certificate Courses
General Fee Range (in INR)INR 20,000 – INR 1,89,400

6. Chandigarh University Online

Chandigarh University Online is another popular top private online institution. It is NAAC A+ accredited and UGC-recognised, reflecting a strong commitment to academic excellence. This UGC-approved online university in India offers strong industry partnerships, access to world-class resources, an on-demand examination facility, and high-quality education.

Some of the popular CU Online courses include MBA, MCA, BBA, BA Journalism, and MA. At CU Online, you can learn at your own pace and tailor your education according to your interests with a wide range of specialisations. Additionally, students can avail a 25% early-bird scholarship. Let’s take a look at some other key highlights of UGC-approved online degree courses at CU Online.

ParticularsInformation
Accreditation and RecognitionNAAC/UGC/AICTE
Popular CoursesMBA, MSc, MCA, BBA, BCA, BA
General Fee Range (in INR)INR 1,00,000 – INR 4,00,000

Also Read: Is Chandigarh University Online Valid?

7. Lovely Professional University Online

NAAC-graded and UGC-recognised, LPU Online aims to provide state-of-the-art infrastructure, innovative pedagogy, advanced LMS, and hands-on training experience. It offers a wide range of online UG, PG, and diploma courses.

Some of the popular online degree courses at LPU include online MBA, MCA, BBA, and BSc. Furthermore, the LPU online courses cover various domains such as management, computer applications, science, commerce, and arts. Moreover, the university focuses on providing affordable and accessible quality education taught by expert faculty members.

ParticularsInformation
Accreditation and RecognitionNAAC/UGC
Popular CoursesMBA, MCA, BBA, BCA, DBA, M.Sc. in Economics
General Fee Range (in INR)INR 1,00,000 – INR 1,80,000

8. Symbiosis School for Online and Digital Learning

Symbiosis School for Online and Digital Learning offers a variety of online undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate courses. The university offers UGC and AICTE-recognised courses covering domains such as business, technology, humanities, and health care.

With online Symbiosis, you receive a dynamic LMS, peer learning, interdisciplinary courses, guest lectures, and a modern curriculum. Moreover, the Symbiosis online courses are affordable and flexible, making it easier to gain quality knowledge and skills.

ParticularsInformation
Accreditation and RecognitionUGC/NAAC/AICTE/NIRF
Popular CoursesBBA, B.Sc in Economics, M.Sc Data Science, M.Sc Economics, MBA, BCA
General Fee Range (in INR)INR 19,000 – INR 3,15,000

9. Jain University Online

NAAC A++ graded and UGC-entitled,
Jain Online University offers a broad range of industry-aligned curriculum. The university focuses on practical and innovative learning methodology taught by experts through UG, PG, and certificate courses. Moreover, it includes live sessions, micro video lessons, downloadable notes, Q&A sessions, self-assessment, discussion forums, and other visual aids.

Furthermore, you would get career advancement services such as interview preparation sessions, resume guidance, and more. Grab your chance to become a part of the top online universities in India.

ParticularsInformation
Accreditation and RecognitionUGC/NAAC/AICTE
Popular CoursesMBA, MCA, BCA, BBA, MA
General Fee Range (in INR)INR 30,000 – INR 2,50,000

10. Narsee Monjee Institute of Management

The Centre for Distance and Online Education, NMIMS, is a premier online education institute. NMIMS online offers UGC-certified and NAAC-graded flexible online courses for busy professionals, homemakers, and fresh graduates seeking to upskill and transform their careers. This institute provides 40+ years of excellence, industry connections, and an extensive alumni network across the globe.

Here, you would get to learn from top faculty members, an industry-aligned curriculum, and expert professional guidance.
NMIMS online courses are popular among working professionals looking to grow.

ParticularsInformation
Accreditation and RecognitionNAAC/UGC/NIRF
Popular CoursesBBA, BCom, MBA, EMBA
General Fee Range (in INR)INR 99,000 – INR 4,00,000

11. Amrita University Online

Amrita Online allows you to pursue your work without putting other responsibilities on hold. The university offers flexible online courses, helping you accelerate your career. It has been granted NAAC-accreditation and UGC-recognition to offer online degree programmes for all. The university focuses on an immersive and practical learning experience.

Moreover, you can get personalised mentorship, innovative pedagogy, up-to-date curriculum, and career assistance. Stay tuned for some other key highlights of online courses at Amrita University.

ParticularsInformation
Accreditation and RecognitionUGC/AICTE/NAAC
Popular CoursesBBA, MBA, BCom, MCom, BCA, MCA
General Fee Range (in INR)INR 2,500 – INR 2,85,000

12. VIT Online

Vellore Institute of Technology Online provides world-class education. It caters to the learning needs of busy working professionals with flexibility, affordability, and credibility. This UGC and AICTE-recognised institute offers a cutting-edge and tech-driven curriculum for its PG and certificate courses.

Some of the popular VIT online courses are MBA and MCA. Planning to upskill with a master’s degree? Choose online VIT.

ParticularsInformation
Accreditation and RecognitionUGC/AICTE/NAAC
Popular CoursesMBA and MCA
General Fee Range (in INR)INR 50,000 – INR 1,80,000

How to Choose the Right Online University in India?

With so many universities offering online education, choosing the right online university has become crucial. How do you know if the programme matches your career goals and aligns with your interests? By understanding a few factors, you shall be able to make an informed decision for yourself.

Choose the Right Online University in India

Eligibility Criteria for Top Online Universities in India

Surely, you must understand the importance of meeting the eligibility criteria for UGC-approved online degree colleges in India. While most online courses are easily accessible for all, there are some specific requirements that you must meet. In this section, we take an in-depth look at the eligibility criteria for UG and PG online courses. Let’s go:

Online Universities UG Course Eligibility Criteria

Here is the complete list of minimum admission criteria for top online universities in India:


  • You must have passed 10+2 or its equivalent examination from a recognised Board/University/Council.

  • Many online universities require you to score a minimum of 45-50% marks in 10+2. This requirement might vary depending on the category you fall into. For example, some universities offer 5% relaxation to the SC/ST/and other reserved category candidates.

  • Most universities do not conduct an entrance test for admission to their online course.

Online Universities PG Course Eligibility Criteria

Take a look at the general minimum PG eligibility criteria in the online universities in India:


  • You must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks from a recognised university.

  • Depending on the online course you pick, the requirement for a particular subject might differ. For example, to pursue an MCA from an online university in India, you might need a BCA or mathematics as a mandatory subject in 10+2, or more.

  • If you are planning to pursue an MBA or a hybrid MBA, top colleges like IIMs require you to have 2 or more years of work experience.

  • To pursue an MBA, top universities in India might require valid scores in CAT/GMAT/GRE or other individual university-based tests.

What is the Admission Process in the Top Online Universities?

Planning to pursue an online degree in India? We have got you. Once you have decided which course you wish to pursue, it is important that you meet the eligibility criteria as well. Once that is out of the way, you must follow the admission process to enroll in the course and start your education journey. Here is a general step-by-step admission process for online degree courses in India. Please note that for specific college application processes, you must visit the individual official university website.

  1. Open the official college website and select the course of your choice.

  2. Register yourself first to begin the application process. Use your email ID and contact number to make an account.

  3. Using your login credentials, open the application form and fill in your personal and academic information.

  4. Upload scanned copies of the required original documents.

  5. Pay the application fee to finally submit the form.

  6. Upon document verification, the university shall send a confirmation letter. Pay the first instalment or admission fee to book your seat.

Essential Documents Required for Admission in Online Universities

Here is a list of all the essential documents you shall need for online degrees in India.

Ensure all documents are scanned and ready before starting your application.


  • 1-2 passport-sized photographs

  • Class 10th mark sheet

  • Class 12th mark sheet or equivalent

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree certificates (depending on which course you are applying to)

  • Caste certificate (for SC/ST/OBC candidates)

  • Disability certificate (if applicable)

  • Work experience certificate (wherever required)

  • A valid government-authorised ID proof, such as Aadhar/Driving license/Pan Card

A Final Takeaway

Online education is not a future anymore; rather, it has become an important part of the present. Pursuing online degree courses in India offers flexibility, accessibility, and affordability. However, selecting an online university in India is a crucial decision can be a difficult decision. That is why we have created a list of the top 20 online universities in India with their popular online courses, fee range, eligibility criteria, and some other insights. Furthermore, we also discuss some of the features that you must keep in mind while choosing an online university for you. Are you ready to take the first step towards bettering your professional and personal journey? Let’s go.

FAQ

Q.1. What are the top 5 UGC-approved online universities in India?

Here is a list of the top 5 UGC-approved online universities in India:

  • Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
  • Amity University Online
  • Manipal University Jaipur
  • Dr DY Patil Vidyapeeth Online
  • Chandigarh University Online

Q.2. What are the emerging online courses in India?

Some of the emerging online courses are the ones that focus on in-demand trends such as data science, artificial intelligence, digital marketing, and cybersecurity.

Q.3. What are the top online courses in 2025?

Some of the top online courses in 2025 include MBA, BCA, MCA, MCom, and other specialised courses that focus on skill-based growth.

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With a Master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication and over six years of hands-on experience across journalism, PR, and content creation, Manavta Kaundinya brings both academic rigour and industry insight to her writing. At LR, she works on blogs, emailers, social platforms, editorial updates, educational campaigns and outreach initiatives. She is an enthusiastic person eager to help learners make informed choices aligning with their goals.

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