Shruti Kumari25 Aug, 2025
Online MA Eligibility Criteria plays a crucial role in making students understand the major requirements that they need to meet. The entire online MA course has been delivered entirely in an online mode. Such a delivery format makes the course much more flexible and easily accessible to a larger set. Thereby making the course highly suitable for both working professionals and those handling other responsibilities.
Generally, the Online MA eligibility criteria may vary as per universities and their course offerings. To some extent, the general Online MA eligibility criteria remain in several aspects. Therefore, undertaking these criteria may help candidates in making an informed decision. Refer to the provided information to build a better understanding related to the requirements.
Online MA course, which is a two-year postgraduate course degree covers subjects related to humanities, social science, and more. The students who have an interest in such a field can opt to pursue the course. The course is delivered entirely online made which makes it easily accessible. Students who have completed their graduation, this course is ideal for them, aiming for higher studies.
With the effective use of the LMS, students can get access to live classes, recorded lectures, e-books, and more. These will help them understand the course knowledge in a better way. In fact, the flexibility, affordability, and UGC approval make Online MA a popular postgraduate option across India. Here is the brief on the Online MA course overview that students can look for better understanding:
| Online MA Course Overview | |
| Feature | Details |
| Course Name | Master of Arts (Online MA) |
| Duration | 2 Years (4 Semesters) |
| Delivery Mode | 100% Online |
| Specialisations | English, Journalism, Public Admin, Economics |
| Eligibility | Graduation with minimum 45% to 50% marks |
| Admission Process | Direct/Merit-Based |
| Ideal For | Graduates, Working Professionals, Homemakers |
Online MA Eligibility Criteria are the minimum academic and age requirements that a candidate must meet to apply for an Online MA program. These criteria vary slightly among universities but generally focus on graduation qualifications and a minimum required percentage.
The main advantage is that no entrance examination is required for most universities. Candidates from any stream in their undergraduate program. Whether Arts, Science, or Commerce, can apply. Below is a summary table of the general eligibility pattern.
| Online MA Eligibility Criteria | |
| Criteria Type | Details |
| Qualification | Bachelor's Degree (3 years or equivalent) |
| Minimum Marks | 45% to 50% (varies by university) |
| Stream | Any stream (Arts, Science, Commerce) |
| Reserved Category | 5% relaxation (SC/ST/OBC/EWS) in most cases |
| Admission Type | Merit-Based (No entrance exams required) |
| Mode of Learning | Fully Online |
Educational qualifications form the core requirement in Online MA Eligibility Criteria. To be eligible, students must hold a graduation degree from a recognized university or institution. The discipline of the undergraduate degree does not usually restrict the student’s application unless the university specifies subject-specific MA specialisations.
Some universities demand a minimum of 50% marks in graduation for general category candidates and provide a 5% relaxation to SC/ST categories. Students who have completed degrees like BA, BCom, BSc, or even BTech are generally eligible to apply. Refer to the table below to know about the Online MA Eligibility Criteria from the educational aspects.
| Online MA Eligibility Criteria - Educational | |
| Requirement | Details |
| Minimum Qualification | Bachelor's degree from a recognized university |
| Minimum Marks | 45%–50% |
| Stream | Arts, Science, Commerce—all accepted |
| Reserved Category Relaxation | 5% for SC/ST/OBC/EWS |
| Open University Degrees | Accepted if UGC-recognized |
One of the other major advantages of the ONline MA course is that students get age flexibility. That is Online MA eligibility criteria are highly flexible in this term. Most of the universities do not see any upper age limit for enrollment. Rather, one can seek admission at a minimum age of 20–21 years.
This age inclusiveness allows working professionals, homemakers, and even senior citizens to pursue a postgraduate degree at their own pace. Below is a table showing common age-related conditions.
| Online MA Eligibility Criteria - Age | |
| Age Requirement | Details |
| Minimum Age | Generally 20–21 years (after graduation) |
| Maximum Age | No upper age limit |
| Who Can Apply | Graduates, working professionals, homemakers |
| Proof of Age | Class 10 Certificate or Govt-issued ID |
There are multiple universities in India that offer an Online MA course. Each of these universities may have varied requirements. But in common, they all require students to have a graduate degree with at least 50% of marks. While some universities also do not limit on a minimum percentage basis. Reserved category candidates often receive 5% relaxation. Here is a table listing some popular universities offering Online MA along with their eligibility requirements and course fees:
| Online MA Universities & Eligibility Critera | |||
| University | Eligibility Requirement | Minimum Marks | Course Fee (INR) |
| Manipal University Jaipur | Graduation; 5% relaxation for SC/ST | 50% | ₹80,000 |
| Sikkim Manipal University | Graduation; 5% relaxation for SC/ST | 50% | ₹79,000 |
| Chandigarh University | Graduation; No minimum % required | Pass | ₹1,00,000–₹1,20,000 |
| VGU (Vivekananda Global Univ.) | Graduation; No percentage criteria | Pass | ₹64,000 |
| Mangalyatan University | Graduation; Minimum 45% marks required | 45% | ₹37,000 |
Admission to the online MA Course is a simple, merit-focused procedure carried out exclusively via the university's official website. Applicants must register online, complete the application form, and upload necessary documents including graduation marksheets, photo ID verification, and category certificates (when relevant).
The majority of universities do not have entrance exams, with admissions relying on qualifying exam results. After submission, the application undergoes review, and selected candidates are notified through email or SMS. Paying the admission fee finalizes the procedure. The entirely online system provides flexibility, enabling applicants from different areas to apply without in-person visits.
