Institute of Distance Education, University of Madras

To qualify for any undergraduate program, students must have completed their intermediate education with a minimum percentage from a recognised board. Selection is based on the scores obtained in the university's own entrance exam. The UG level offers various prescribed courses including B.A, B.Sc, BBA, BCA, and others.

At the postgraduate level, the University of Madras IDE offers courses such as MBA, M.A, M.Sc, MCA, and MCA (Lateral). Eligibility for these programs requires a relevant undergraduate degree from a recognised university. Admission is granted based on a qualifying score in the university's entrance exam. For the MBA program, the university accepts national-level exams like CAT/MAT/XAT/CMAT for admission.

Madras University Distance Education offers a diverse range of undergraduate courses across various disciplines. The B.A. programs, comprising nine courses, are available at tuition fees ranging from 16.7 K to 25.4 K. Similarly, the B.Sc. courses, totaling three in number, have tuition fees ranging from 20 K to 27.5 K. The B.Com. programs, consisting of four courses, are priced between 19.6 K and 21.8 K. Additionally, the BCA course is available at a fee of 27.5 K, while the BBA programme and BFA programme are priced at 19.7 K and 25.4 K, respectively. These undergraduate courses cater to a variety of interests and academic pursuits, providing students with a comprehensive education. The eligibility criteria for these programs vary and include examination requirements such as CBSE 12th, ISC, and more. The courses are designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills for their chosen fields.

Established in 1857, the University of Madras, also known as Madras University or UNOM, holds the distinction of being one of India's the oldest and most prominent universities. According to the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2023, it is ranked 50th in the 'University' category and 65th in the 'Overall' category. UNOM, a collegiate research university, boasts six campuses in different parts of the city, including Chepauk, Marina, Guindy, Taramani, Maduravoyal, and Chetpet. Accredited with an A+ grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), Madras University has been granted the status of a University with Potential for Excellence (UPE) by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

The Institute of Distance Education at the University of Madras, commonly referred to as Madras University Distance Education Institute, was founded in 1981 as an extension of the University of Madras. Presently, the Distance Education Institute of the University of Madras provides undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate programs in diverse specializations. The Institute offers education in the domains of Science, Arts, Commerce, Management, and Information Technology (IT). Additionally, IDE has a dedicated placement cell that provides students with training opportunities, placements, and internships. Furthermore, the Madras University Distance Education Institute extends scholarships to candidates belonging to reserved categories.