With the rise of online education, not only private universities but several institutions are also entering the online route offering diverse online courses. Institutes of National Importance (INIs) such as IITs, IIMs, IISc, and IIITs offer selected degree programmes in online mode under UGC and AICTE regulations. These programmes are recognised under the UGC framework for online education, meaning the degrees awarded are valid, recognised, and equivalent to regular degrees for higher studies and employment.
Online programmes at INIs follow structured curricula, faculty-led teaching, continuous evaluation, and proctored examinations. While online learning provides flexibility, it maintains the high academic standards expected from these institutions. To offer online degrees, institutes must meet quality benchmarks such as NAAC accreditation or NIRF ranking, ensuring the programmes fulfil national standards. Only specific courses are available online, and not all on-campus degrees are offered digitally.
Institutes of National Importance (INIs) are leading public institutions established through Acts of Parliament. They have the authority to design their own academic programmes and award degrees that are respected across India. Because of their national status, INIs play a key role in higher education, research, and skill development.
Online degrees from INIs are delivered by experienced faculty and follow the same academic framework used in campus programmes. These courses include structured learning, regular assessments, and defined academic timelines. For students, this means access to quality education from top government institutions with the added benefit of flexible learning.
Institutes of National Importance (INIs) have slowly started introducing online and blended degree programmes to make higher education more accessible. These programmes are designed for learners who cannot attend regular campus classes but still want a recognised degree from a top public institute. At present, only a limited number of INIs offer proper online or blended degree programmes, while most others focus on certificates, diplomas, or executive courses.
Institute Name
IIT Madras
BS in Data Science and Applications
Online learning with in-person exams
4 years (with exit options)
BS in Electronic Systems
Online learning with in-person labs/exams
IIT Guwahati
BSc (Honours) in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
Fully online with optional campus engagement
4 years
IIT Jodhpur
BS / BSc in Applied Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
Online/blended learning
3–4 years
IIM Kozhikode
Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP)
Blended (online classes with compulsory campus modules)
Usually around 2 years
IIM Mumbai (NITIE)
Executive MBA
Online sessions + on-campus modules
2–5 years (flexible)
IIM Raipur
Blended (online + mandatory campus modules)
2 years
Executive PGP in HRM
IIM Visakhapatnam
Blended (online classes + campus immersion)
IIM Ranchi
Blended mode (online classes with mandatory on-campus modules)
Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
Online M.Tech in Artificial Intelligence
Online M.Tech in Data Science & Business Analytics
Online M.Tech in Electronics & Communication Engineering
IIM Ahmedabad
Blended MBA Business Analytics and AI
Online classes with mandatory on-campus modules
MBA-BPGP
Online synchronous mode
IIIT Vadodara
BSc in Computer Science
Fully online
BSc in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
BSc in Data Science & Analytics
Key Notes for Students
Limited online degree options at INIs: A few Institutes of National Importance currently offer degree-level programmes in online or blended mode. Most INIs still focus on on-campus education.
UG and PG degrees are few: Fully online or blended UG degrees are mainly offered by select IITs and IIITs. Most PG-level options are executive or specialised programmes.
Blended learning is common: Many programmes listed above follow a blended format, which includes online classes along with compulsory campus visits for exams, modules, or interactions.
IIT Madras exit options: Some IIT Madras programmes allow multiple exit points, allowing students to receive a certificate or diploma if they do not complete the full degree.
Executive programmes are for professionals: Executive MBA and Executive PGP programmes offered by IIMs are designed for working professionals and differ from regular MBA degrees .
Online M.Tech programmes: Institutes like IISc Bangalore offer online M.Tech programmes. These are valuable for skill development but are not treated as regular UGC-approved online degrees.
Recognition depends on programme type: Degrees offered as per approved structures by the institute hold academic value. Students must check whether a programme is a regular degree, an executive programme, or a specialised online course.
Official websites are the final source: Programme availability, structure, duration, and admission rules may change. Students should always verify details from the institute’s official website before applying.
Also Read: Top IIT Online Degrees To Pursue in 2026 Without JEE
Online and blended degree programmes at Institutes of National Importance fees cost depends on the institute, programme, and number of credits or semesters. Fees usually include tuition, registration, campus immersion, insurance, and other charges. Students should always check the official portals for exact amounts.
BSc (Hons) in Data Science & AI (Online)
Rs. 3,49,000
Total programme fee
BS in Data Science & Applications / BS in Electronic Systems (Online)
Rs. 3,15,000 – Rs. 3,51,000
Credit-based fee structure
Rs. 12,50,000 + caution & alumni fees
Rs. 4,80,000
Full programme fee
MBA (Blended Post Graduate Programme in Management)
Rs. 20,00,000
Two-year programme fee
Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore
Online M.Tech Programmes
Rs. 8,80,000 – Rs. 10,00,000
Programme-wise official fees
BSc (CS / DS & Analytics / AI & ML)
Rs. 2,80,000 – Rs. 2,90,000
Semester-wise total, including tuition, campus immersion, insurance, and other charges
Rs. 13,22,000 (Hybrid Cohort)
Fee payable in instalments across the 2-year executive programme.
To join online or blended degree programmes at Institutes of National Importance, students must meet certain basic requirements. These ensure learners are academically prepared and ready for online learning. The table below is the common eligibility criteria for undergraduate and postgraduate online degrees.
Educational Qualification
Undergraduate (BS/BSc): Class 12 (10+2) or equivalent from a recognised board ( Mathematics is often expected for technical or data science courses)
Postgraduate (MBA, PG Diploma): Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognised university.
Minimum Marks
UG: Passing marks in Class 12 or equivalent.
PG: Minimum 50–60% aggregate in bachelor’s degree (varies by programme).
Age Limit
Most programmes have no age restriction.
Work Experience
Required only for some postgraduate programmes, such as online MBA (usually 2–3 years). Not needed for undergraduate degrees.
Entrance / Tests
UG programmes usually do not require entrance exams.
PG programmes may ask for national/institute test scores or online interviews.
Other Requirements
Access to reliable internet and digital devices.
Ability to attend online classes and submit assignments.
May need to appear for online or proctored assessments.
International Students
Must have equivalent qualifications recognised by national authorities.
An equivalence certificate may be needed.
The admission process for online and blended degree programmes at Institutes of National Importance is simple and structured. While details may vary by programme, most follow similar steps. Below is a step-by-step guide:
Check Eligibility- Make sure you meet the programme requirements, such as passing Class 12 for undergraduate courses or having a bachelor’s degree for postgraduate courses. Also, check if any specific subjects, marks, or work experience are needed.
Register Online - Create an account on the official admission portal using a valid email address and mobile number. This gives you access to the application form and updates.
Fill Application Form- Complete the online application with your personal details, academic history, and other required information. Upload scanned copies of documents like mark sheets, certificates, and ID proof.
Pay Application Fee- Most programmes have a non-refundable application fee. Pay this online to submit your form successfully.
Qualifying Test or Assessment (if applicable)- Some programmes may require an online test or an entrance assessment. For example, certain courses include a preparatory module and a qualifier test.
Selection and Merit List- Institutes may prepare a merit list based on your academic record, test scores, and other criteria. Admission is offered according to this ranking.
Offer Letter and Acceptance- If selected, you will receive an offer letter. Confirm your admission by accepting the offer and paying any required commitment fees.
Document Verification and Fee Payment- Upload or present all necessary documents for verification and complete the programme fee payment to secure your seat.
Start of Classes- Once admission is confirmed, you can join the online classes on the start date announced by the institute.
Learn How IIT Online Degree Can Help You Transition to a New Career Path
Online degrees from Institutes of National Importance, such as IIT Guwahati, provide students with industry-relevant knowledge and skills that are highly valued in the job market. According to the Indian Express, the BSc (Honours) in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at IIT Guwahati prepares students with technical expertise in AI , data analytics, and machine learning .
These programmes prepare graduates for professional work as well as higher studies, combining academic rigour with practical applications. Students gain a strong foundation for careers in technology, data science, and related fields.
Job Roles for Online INI Graduates
Explore Top IISc Online Courses in 2026: Fees, Duration, Eligibility & Career Outcomes
In conclusion, Online degree programmes from Institutes of National Importance offer flexible, UGC-approved education with the same value as regular degrees. They provide strong academic training, industry-relevant skills, and recognised qualifications. Graduates can pursue jobs, higher studies, or research, making these online INI programmes a trusted choice for career growth in 2026.
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