This article lists the top 10 distance MBA colleges in India for 2024 based on factors like faculty, fees, placements, etc. It also mentions five more good institutes that didn’t make the top 10 but are still noteworthy options for pursuing distance management programs.
The option of pursuing a distance MBA program is a great alternative for professionals working or for those who are unable to attend the full-time classes due to work or other obligations. India offers no shortage of respected institutions that offer distance-learning MBA courses that are acknowledged and approved by regulatory agencies such as UGC and AICTE.
Why choose a Distance MBA program in India?
There are several benefits to pursuing a distance MBA course from a reputed college:
- Flexibility to study as per your schedule from anywhere
- Job opportunities increase substantially after an MBA.
- Skills and knowledge needed for leadership roles
- Higher salaries: MBA degree holders get better compensation
- Entrepreneurship:The MBA equips you with business management skills.
The right distance MBA program can provide all these benefits without having to leave your job or home.
Methodology for Ranking the Top 10 Distance MBA Colleges India
We have ranked the top distance MBA colleges in India based on:
- Faculty: quality of teachers, profile, industry experience
- Course curriculum: depth, variety, and application of concepts covered
- Industry partnerships: tie-ups with companies that facilitate placements
- Infrastructure: libraries, computer labs, and learning management systems
- Placement support is provided, guidance is provided, and campus recruitment drives
- Fees: balance of cost versus all services and facilities provided
Which is the best distance MBA in India?
List OF Top 10 Distance MBA Colleges
Based on the above criteria, here is the list of the 10 best distance MBA colleges in India.
Please note that the location mentioned for each university refers to the main campus or headquarters of the respective institution.
1 IGNOU
Up TO INR 35,000 Scholarship Grant: Apply Now
| Established | 1985 |
|---|---|
| Recognition | Institution of National Importance by the Government of India |
| Key Highlights | – Over 3 million students |
| – Courses recognized globally | |
| – Robust placement assistance | |
| – High-quality study material | |
| – Over 67 programs to choose from | |
| Fees | Rs. 31,000 to Rs. 51,000 |
| Placement Support | – Online placement preparation modules |
| – Resume-building workshops | |
| – Mock interviews or GDs with recruiter feedback | |
| – National recruitment drives | |
| Verdict | With a pan-India presence, high-quality education, and global recognition, IGNOU is undoubtedly #1 for distance MBA programs in India. |
Verdict: With a pan-India presence, high-quality education, and global recognition, IGNOU is undoubtedly #1 for distance MBA programs in India.
2. Sikkim Manipal University, Directorate of Distance Education (SMU-DDE)
Up TO INR 35,000 Scholarship Grant: Apply Now
| Established | 2001 |
|---|---|
| Recognition | Programs approved by the UGC |
| Key Highlights | – Affordable fees |
| – Flexi payment options | |
| – Strong industry partnerships: KPMG, IBM | |
| – 3500+ recruitment partners | |
| Fees | Rs. 75,000 (full program) |
| Placement Support | – Soft skills workshops |
| – Corporate leadership lectures | |
| – 80% placement record |
Verdict: Excellent value for money and placement record make SMU-DDE one of the best choices for distance MBA.
3. Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL), Pune
Up TO INR 35,000 Scholarship Grant: Apply Now
| Established | 2001 |
|---|---|
| Recognition | MBA approved by AICTE |
| Key Highlights | – 325+ companies participate in placements |
| – 10,000+ alumni network | |
| – 120+ programs across management, engineering, etc. | |
| – Strong industry partnerships | |
| Fees | Rs. 1.8 lakh (total program fees) |
| Placement Support | – Resume building and soft skills workshops |
| – Mock interviews | |
| – National recruitment drives | |
| Verdict | Comprehensive student support and an expansive alumni network make SCDL a top choice for an MBA. |
4. NMIMS-Global Access School for Continuing Education (NGA-SCE)
Up TO INR 35,000 Scholarship Grant: Apply Now
| Established | 2013 |
|---|---|
| Recognition | Programs approved by the UGC |
| Key Highlights | – Part of the reputed NMIMS University |
| – The faculty includes executives from top corporations | |
| – Innovative pedagogy using the latest tools | |
| – Strong alumni networks | |
| Fees | -Rs. 1.70 lakhs |
| Placement Support | – Dedicated placement assistance team |
| – Guidance from faculty and alumni | |
| – Workshops and recruitment drives | |
| Verdict | Innovation-focused programs under the NMIMS brand make NGA-SCE a leading choice for MBA. |
5. IMT: Institute of Distance and Open Learning (Idol Ghaziabad)
Up TO INR 35,000 Scholarship Grant: Apply Now
| Established | 2006 |
|---|---|
| Recognition | Programs approved by the UGC |
| Key Highlights | – Strong legacy: Part of the prestigious IMT Ghaziabad |
| – Customized program offering | |
| – E-learning infrastructure | |
| Fees | Rs. 3.60 lakh (complete program) |
| Placement Support | – Resume building and soft skills training |
| – 1-1 mentor guidance | |
| – National recruitment events |
Verdict: Legacy and personalized mentorship provide a solid return on investment from IMT-IDOL.
Redeem Your Scholarship Code
6. Amity Online MBA, Amity University, Noida
Up TO INR 35,000 Scholarship Grant: Apply Now
| Established | 2014 |
|---|---|
| Recognition | Programs approved by the UGC |
| Key Highlights | – 180 education programs |
| – 400+ strong faculty | |
| – Robust e-learning platform | |
| – 130 MoUs with foreign universities | |
| Fees | Rs. 1.57 lakh (complete MBA program) |
| Placement Support | – Dedicated placement cell |
| – Online training in soft skills and aptitude | |
| – Campus recruitment events | |
| Verdict | With foreign collaborations and extensive e-learning infrastructure, Amity Online MBA offers good value. |
7. ICFAI University, Dehradun
Up TO INR 35,000 Scholarship Grant: Apply Now
| Established | 2002 |
|---|---|
| Recognition | UGC, AICTE, and AIU approved |
| Key Highlights | – 300+ academic collaborations globally |
| – 100% assignment-based evaluation | |
| – Option for global internships and exposure | |
| Fees | Rs. 3.6 lakh (full program) |
| Placement Support | – Finish school (grooming in soft skills) |
| – Guidance for entrepreneurship projects | |
| – Campus placements | |
| Verdict | ICFAI offers comprehensive education with global exposure. |
8. School of Management Studies, Noida, Indira Gandhi National Open University (SOMS-IGNOU)
Up TO INR 35,000 Scholarship Grant: Apply Now
| Established | 2007 |
|---|---|
| Recognition | Recognized under the IGNOU Act 1985 |
| Key Highlights | – Over 20 programs to choose from |
| – Strong industry and international partnerships | |
| – Emphasis on holistic development | |
| Fees | Rs. 75,000 (full program) |
| Placement Support | – Hands-on skills workshop |
| – 1-on-1 mentoring | |
| – Simulated interview practice | |
| Verdict | As a division of the prestigious IGNOU, SOMS delivers excellent remote education and infrastructure. |
9. DY Patil University
Up TO INR 35,000 Scholarship Grant: Apply Now
| Established | 1983 |
|---|---|
| Recognition | AICTE-approved |
| Key Highlights | – Sprawling 51-acre campus |
| – Strong industry connections for internships and placements | |
| – Student clubs and committees | |
| Fees | Rs. 1.75 lakhs (for Computer Engineering) |
| Placement Support | – Training on aptitude, technical, and soft skills |
| – Pre-placement talks by industry experts | |
| – On-campus recruitment drives | |
| Verdict | Dy Patil Institute is an established college with a strong reputation. |
10. IMT Distance and Open Learning Program, IMT Hyderabad
Up TO INR 35,000 Scholarship Grant: Apply Now
| Established | 2014 |
|---|---|
| Recognition | Programs approved |
| Key Highlights | – Strong legacy of the IMT Group |
| – Customized education approach | |
| – Focus on holistic development | |
| Fees | Rs. 3.60 lakh |
| Placement Support | – Industry mentorship programs |
| – 1-on-1 guidance for aptitude and soft skills | |
| – Preparation for national-level recruitment events | |
| Verdict | Leverage the expertise of IMT’s legacy for comprehensive development. |
These Top 10 Distance MBA Colleges offer a chance for learning from anywhere, helping people move forward despite life’s hurdles.
Redeem Your Scholarship Code
How to Find the Best Distance MBA Program for You
The best distance MBA university is the leader in online management education. Its flexible program works well for busy professionals. Learners can earn an MBA degree at their own pace.
The online MBA courses match top business schools. The two-year curriculum covers all main management topics like finance and marketing. Interactive class projects help students with real situations.
The distance MBA keeps costs low for more people to join. Scholarships also make it affordable. Mobile access lets working adults fit education into life. Career help supports learners seeking management jobs.
The user-friendly technology allows remote students to succeed. Award-winning digital platforms empower people countrywide. Graduates gain relevant business skills and connections. Diverse peers in the community encourage growth after the distance MBA program.
Here are 5 more good distance MBA colleges in India that are worthwhile options but did not make the top 10:
| colleges | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 11. UPES School of Business, Dehradun | Key Highlights 130+ programs in various disciplines Tie-ups with leading corporations like IBM, HCL, and Infosys Strong placement record Emphasis on holistic development Fees: Rs. 1.5 lakh (full program) Apply now |
| 12. WE School, Mumbai | Key Highlights Part of the renowned Prin. L. N. Welingkar Institute Innovative pedagogy and programs Learn from distinguished faculty. Option for International Exposure Fees: Rs. 1.75 lakh Apply now |
| 13. ITM Business School, Navi Mumbai | Key Highlights NBA-accredited programs State-of-the-art e-learning platform Strong industry connections for practical learning Excellent placement support Fees: Rs. 1.5 lakhs Apply now |
| 14. IMI, New Delhi | Key Highlights Part of the prestigious IMI Group Programs approved by AICTE Learn from leading faculty and industry experts. Robust e-learning infrastructure Fees: Rs. 1.65 lakh Apply now |
| 15. Bharathiar University, Coimbatore | Key Highlights Globally accepted programs 160+ programs across disciplines Tie-ups with leading corporations Excellent ROI Fees: Rs. 30,000 (full program) Apply now |
The above colleges also offer good distance MBA programs through recognized certification. With experienced faculty and industry partnerships, they provide the infrastructure and support required for a comprehensive management education from anywhere.
Distance Learning MBA in India: A Flexible and Affordable Option
| Topics | Keypoint |
|---|---|
| Distance learning MBA in India | A distance learning MBA allows students to earn an MBA degree remotely through online classes and coursework without having to physically attend classes on campus. This mode of learning is flexible and affordable. |
| Correspondence MBA and distance MBA courses | Correspondence and distance MBAs involve completing pre-assigned course material and assignments via post or email without having to be present on campus. Many universities offer distance MBA programs with online components today. |
| The top 10 distance education universities in India | Some of the top-ranked institutes for distance MBA programs in India include IGNOU, Amity University, Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning, and more. A brief ranking could be provided. |
| Distance MBA means | It refers to the mode of earning an MBA remotely through distance or online education without physically attending classes. |
| The best distance learning MBA | The best distance learning MBA and top distance MBA university is IGNOU. As mentioned earlier, IGNOU’s program tops rankings for its quality, recognition, and student support. |
| Distance education institutes and colleges | some leading distance education providers include IGNOU, Amity University, Annamalai University, Osmania University, etc. |
| The cheapest distance MBAs | IGNOU and Annamalai University offer the most affordable distance MBAs at prices below INR 25,000. |
| 1 year distance MBA | A few universities, like Amity, allow completing an MBA in 1 year in the distance mode by providing flexibility. |
| MBA open university in India | IGNOU uses an open university system, making its MBA accessible to all with no entry barriers. |
| IGNOU as the best for distance MBA | Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is the leading distance education university in India. Its open and distance learning MBA program is comprehensive, flexible, and affordable. |
Key Takeaways: Why Pursue a Distance MBA in 2024
- Better prospects with an advancing digital economy
- Build business management skills without leaving your job.
- Flexibility to learn anytime, anywhere, at your own pace
- Job opportunities in leading companies across varied sectors
- Higher lifetime earnings over non-MBA peers
- Option to specialize through electives in the 2nd year
So an approved distance MBA program from a reputed college will provide the perfect springboard for the career advancement you desire! Evaluate all aspects, like the faculty profile, placement support, and peer network, and choose wisely!
FAQ Of Top 10 Distance MBA Colleges India 2024
Which are the top 10 distance MBA colleges in India?
Some of the top distance MBA colleges are Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning, IMT Ghaziabad, Amity Online MBA, UPES Dehradun, IBS Business School, ICFAI University, ITM Business School, Sikkim Manipal University, Manipal GlobalNxt University, and LPU Distance Education.
Which are the top distance MBA colleges under government universities in India?
Some leading government university providers of distance MBAs are IGNOU, Annamalai University, Karnataka State Open University, Netaji Subhas Open University, and UP Rajarshi Tandon Open University.
Which university is best for MBA distance education in India?
Based on rankings and placements, Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning, IMT Ghaziabad, and Sikkim Manipal University are among the best universities for MBA distance education in India.
Which distance MBA programs have the best placement record?
Based on rankings and placements, Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning, IMT Ghaziabad, and Sikkim Manipal University are among the best universities for MBA distance education in India.
Does Symbiosis provide a distance MBA?
Yes, Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL) offers a 2-year PGDBA program that is equivalent to an MBA.
Does IGNOU provide MBA distance education?
Yes, IGNOU offers a 2-year MBA and a 3-year MBA (services management) through distance learning.
Does LPU provide distance MBA education?
Yes, LPU offers a 2-year MBA program in different specializations through distance learning.
What are the fees for distance MBA programs in India?
The fees for distance MBA programs range from Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 3 lakhs overall, depending on the specialization, university brand, and amenities.
Does NMIMS provide a distance learning MBA?
Yes, SVKM’s NMIMS offers a 2-year PGDM program through distance mode with specializations in finance, HR, operations and supply chain, etc.
Does IIM provide a distance MBA program?
No, none of the IIMs currently offer an MBA or equivalent program through distance mode.
