Confused between choosing BRAOU open degree or regular college degree? Both have their own benefits. This guide helps you understand the differences between BRAOU Open Degree vs Regular Degree and will help you decide which option suits your situation better.
What is an Open Degree?
An open degree from BRAOU is a distance learning program. You study from home using BRAOU study material provided by the ambedkar open university. You don’t need to attend daily classes. you can attend weekend classes conducted by your open university study centers.You only visit study centers for submitting assignments and for appearing for exams.
BRAOU offers BA, BCom, and BSc through open degree mode. The duration is 3 to 6 years depending on how fast you complete.
What is a Regular Degree?
A regular degree means attending a physical college every day. You go to classes, interact with teachers directly, work in labs, and participate in campus activities. Most traditional colleges offer regular degrees.
The duration is fixed at 3 years for most undergraduate courses.
BRAOU Open Degree vs Regular Degree – Comparison
| Factor | BRAOU Open Degree | Regular Degree |
|---|---|---|
| Class Attendance | Not required, study from home | Compulsory daily attendance (usually 75%) |
| Study Schedule | Flexible, study anytime | Fixed timetable, 9 AM to 4 PM typically |
| Age Limit | No upper age limit | Usually restricted to fresh students |
| Admission Process | Direct admission, no entrance exam | Merit-based or entrance exam required |
| Fee Structure | Rs. 7,000 – Rs. 10,000 per year | Rs. 20,000 – Rs. 1,00,000+ per year |
| Campus Life | No campus facilities | Hostels, libraries, sports, cafeteria available |
| Practical Classes | Limited or none for most courses | Full practical labs for science students |
| Duration | 3 to 6 years (flexible) | Fixed 3 years |
| Job Suitability | Perfect for working professionals | For full-time students only |
| Study Material | Books and online resources provided | Classroom teaching with notes |
Recognition and Value
Both degree is equally valid and recognized. BRAOU is approved by UGC (University Grants Commission) and accredited by NAAC with ‘A’ grade. This means:
- BRAOU degrees are accepted for government jobs
- Valid for all competitive exams like UPSC, banking, SSC
- Accepted by private companies
- Can pursue higher studies (MA, MSc, MBA) anywhere
- Valid for teaching jobs after B.Ed
- Recognized abroad with proper attestation
The value of your degree depends more on your skills and knowledge, not on whether you studied in regular or distance mode.
Who Should Choose BRAOU Open Degree?
BRAOU open degree is better if you are:
Working Professionals: You can study while doing your job. No need to quit work for education.
Homemakers: Women who manage households can study from home without daily college travel.
Students Who Failed Regular Admission: If you missed regular college admission or didn’t get your preferred course.
People in Remote Areas: Living far from cities where good colleges are not available.
Those Needing Flexible Schedule: If you have family responsibilities or health issues that prevent daily attendance.
Age Above 25-30 Years: Many regular colleges don’t accept older students, but BRAOU has no age limit.
Limited Budget: BRAOU fees are very affordable compared to regular colleges.
Job Opportunities Comparison
For Government Jobs: Both degrees are equally accepted. What matters is passing the competitive exam and interview. Many BRAOU graduates have cleared UPSC, Group exams, and banking tests.
For Private Sector: Private companies focus on your skills, knowledge, and interview performance. Both degrees work fine. However, some top companies prefer candidates from premium regular colleges due to campus recruitment.
For Teaching: Both are valid. After completing a BRAOU degree, you can do B.Ed and become a teacher. TET and CTET accept BRAOU degrees.
For Higher Studies: BRAOU graduates can pursue MA, MSc, MBA, or any postgraduate course at any university. All UGC-recognized universities accept BRAOU degrees.
Cost Comparison
BRAOU Open Degree Total Cost (3 years):
- Tuition fee: Rs. 21,000 to Rs. 30,000
- Study material: Included
- Exam fees: Rs. 600 to Rs. 900 per year
- Assignment costs: Minimal
- Total: Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 35,000
Regular Degree Total Cost (3 years):
- Tuition fee: Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 3,00,000
- Hostel (if applicable): Rs. 1,00,000 to Rs. 3,00,000
- Food and living: Rs. 1,50,000 to Rs. 2,00,000
- Books and materials: Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 30,000
- Total: Rs. 3,25,000 to Rs. 8,30,000+
The cost difference is huge. BRAOU is almost 10 times cheaper than regular college.
Which Is Actually Better?
There is no single answer. It depends on your personal situation:
Choose BRAOU Open Degree if:
- You need to work and study together
- Budget is limited
- You have family responsibilities
- You want flexible timing
- You are self-motivated and disciplined
- you can check out ambedkar open university courses list here.
Choose Regular Degree if:
- You are a fresh student after 12th
- You can afford it financially
- You want complete campus experience
- Your course requires heavy practical work
- You learn better with direct teaching
FAQS
1. Is BRAOU Open Degree valid for government jobs?
Yes. BRAOU Open Degree is valid for government jobs if the notification accepts degrees from UGC-recognised universities.
2. Is Intermediate mandatory for BRAOU Regular Degree?
Yes. Passing Intermediate (10+2) is compulsory for admission into a Regular Degree at BRAOU.
3.Can I do MBA after BRAOU open degree?
Yes you can do MBA after completing your open degree.
4.Do private companies accept BRAOU degrees?
Yes, private companies accept BRAOU degrees.
Final Recommendation
If you are a working person, homemaker, or someone who cannot attend regular college, BRAOU open degree is the best choice. It gives you a proper degree while letting you manage your other responsibilities.if you want to apply for open degree check our guide here.
If you are a young student right after 12th grade with no financial problems and want full college experience, go for regular degree.
Both paths lead to success. What matters is your dedication and how you use the opportunity.