Distance and online MBA programs in India have grown rapidly in the last few years. With flexible learning, affordable fees, and UGC-DEB/AICTE approvals, these programs are ideal for working professionals, entrepreneurs, and students who cannot attend full-time MBA programs.
Today, several reputed universities offer top-ranked online and distance MBA programs with updated curriculum, virtual-learning platforms, placement support, and industry-integrated modules.
In this guide, we have curated the Top Distance MBA Colleges in India based on accreditation, reputation, curriculum, student support, placement opportunities, and fee structure.
This list helps you compare the best online MBA colleges in India so you can choose one that matches your career goals.
Table of Contents
Why Choose a Distance/Online MBA in India?
- Short, crisp reasons why lakhs of students prefer online/distance MBA:
- UGC-DEB & AICTE approval ensures credibility.
- Flexible learning through LMS, video classes, and e-content.
- Affordable fees compared to regular MBA programs.
- Ideal for working professionals—no need to leave your job.
- Industry-oriented specializations like Business Analytics, Marketing, Finance, HR, IT, etc.
- Recognized degrees that hold equal value to regular MBA (when accredited).
List of Top Distance MBA Colleges in India
Below is a quick comparison table of the best distance MBA universities in India, along with their fee structure:
Top Distance & Online MBA Colleges – Comparison Table
| Rank | University | Location | Accreditation | 2-Year MBA Fee | Best Known For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | IGNOU | New Delhi | UGC, AICTE | ₹37,800 | Most affordable & widely recognized |
| 2 | Manipal University Jaipur | Jaipur | UGC, NAAC A+ | ₹1,64,000 | Premium online MBA with global networking |
| 3 | IMT CDL | Ghaziabad | AICTE | ₹1,11,000 | Strong management curriculum |
| 4 | Lovely Professional University | Punjab | UGC, NAAC A++ | ₹41,600 | Great placement support |
| 5 | Symbiosis SCDL | Pune | AICTE | ₹1,00,000 | Multiple MBA specializations |
| 6 | Jain University | Bangalore | UGC, NAAC A+ | ₹1,20,000 | International recognition |
| 7 | Uttaranchal University | Dehradun | UGC | ₹68,000 | Strong academic support |
| 8 | Suresh Gyan Vihar University | Jaipur | UGC, AICTE | ₹74,400 | Pedagogy & modern learning |
| 9 | Chandigarh University (CU IDOL) | Punjab | NAAC A+ | ₹11,950–₹14,450 | Most affordable private university |
| 10 | Shiv Nadar University | Greater Noida | IoE | ₹4,00,000 | Premium MBA with industry mentorship |
Top Distance MBA Colleges in India – Detailed Overview
Below is a detailed breakdown of each university, including features and fees.
1. Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) School of Management Studies, New Delhi
The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) School of Management Studies started its operation in 1987. IGNOU provides an MBA as well as a variety of other courses online. MBA at IGNOU is a two-year program that has been approved by the UGC and AICTE. In its Management Programme, IGNOU uses a course-by-course registration system. The Open University System is more student-centered, with the learner playing an active role in the teaching-learning process. The majority of education is delivered online via distance learning rather than in-person. For instruction, the university employs a multi-media strategy.
Key features:
- 378+ study/counseling centers across India
- Highly affordable
- Flexible semester-wise registration
- Multi-media teaching model
- UGC & AICTE approved
Fees: Rs. 37,800 for the 2-year degree
Why Choose IGNOU?
Best for students seeking an economical yet highly recognized distance MBA.
2. Manipal University, Jaipur
Manipal University’s online MBA program is one of the best universities for distance MBA and is built in accordance with UGC norms. This best online MBA in India is divided into four semesters and covers topics such as foundational management skills, organizational behavior, statistics, an overview of managing MIS, CRM, research methodologies, the legal aspects of business and IP, and more.
The online MBA degree at Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) prepares you to stand out as a leader in today’s competitive world. You can learn from respected lecturers, receive outstanding placement assistance, and network with professionals from all across the world without losing your career.
Key features:
- UGC-approved online MBA
- Live + recorded classes
- 200+ industry experts & faculties
- Excellent placement & career support
Fees: Rs. 1,64,000 for the 2-year degree
Best For: Professionals wanting a premium online MBA experience.
3. IMT Distance Learning MBA by IMTCDL, Ghaziabad
IMT Ghaziabad, which has campuses in Nagpur, Hyderabad, and Dubai, is a well-known management institute in India. IMT-Centre for Distance Learning (IMT-CDL) is IMT Ghaziabad’s sister institution. IMT CDL provides a variety of management and information technology programs. To keep up with the fast-paced educational environment, the institute periodically refreshes its curriculum.
Key features:
- Educational platforms including LEAD & Expert Connect
- Updated curriculum aligned with industry
- Strong focus on case-based learning
Fees: Rs. 1,11,000 for 2-year degree
Best For: Students who want management-focused coursework from a reputed brand.
4. Lovely Professional University, Punjab
Lovely Professional University is a well-known name in distance MBA. It has an award-winning e-learning facility. It provides a well-articulated MBA program with a cutting-edge curriculum to produce world-class business executives and managers.
LPU distance education MBA is for you if you want to be a future company leader or manager. It will assist you in developing the necessary self-confidence, skills, and knowledge to be successful in your professional life.
Key features:
- Award-winning e-learning portal
- 190+ placement drives annually
- Flexible online resources
Fees: Rs. 41,600 for a 2-year degree
Best For: Students seeking value-for-money distance MBA with good placements.
5. Symbiosis Distance Learning MBA by SCDL, Pune
Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL) is part of Symbiosis International University and is based in Pune. SCDL provides a diverse choice of Distance MBA courses in areas such as International Business, Information Technology, Banking and Finance, Supply Chain, Customer Relationship Management, Insurance, Education, Business and Corporate Law, and Entrepreneurship.
Key features:
- Corporate tie-ups with IBM, Infosys, Cognizant
- Multiple specializations
- Placement assistance.
Fees: Rs. 1,00,000 for a 2-year degree
Best For: Learners wanting diverse specialization options.
6. Jain University, Bangalore
Bangalore’s Jain University is a deemed-to-be university. The founder of the university was Dr. Chenraj Roychand. Jain Online, which is affiliated with Jain University, offers a variety of online courses via distance and online learning.
Key features:
- 100% placement support
- Global collaborations with BCS, CIM
- International student base
Fees: Rs. 1,20,000 for a 2-year degree
Best For: International recognition + professional networking.
7. Uttaranchal University, Dehradun
Uttaranchal University is a private institution in Dehradun, India. It has expanded into the online education sector after establishing itself in the offline education sector. The institution has introduced its online education services so that students can study from the comfort of their homes. Under sections 2(f) and 12(B) of the UGC Act of 1956, Uttaranchal University has been recognized by the UGC and other state and federal statutory bodies.
Key features:
- Collaborative online teaching
- Strong academic environment
- UGC-recognized under sections 2(f) & 12(B)
Fees: Rs. 68,000 for a 2-year degree
Best For: Affordable online MBA with quality teaching.
8. Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jaipur
Suresh Gyan Vihar Institution (SGVU) is a Jaipur-based private institution. As the first private university in Rajasthan to get an ‘A’ rating from NAAC, the University is now the only NAAC-accredited university in Rajasthan.
In comparison to the others on the list, this is a fairly new university. It is approved by both the AICTE and the UGC. SGVU’s use of pedosphere in its online learning education programs is one of its distinctive features.
Key features:
- Application-focused curriculum
- Modern digital pedagogy
- AICTE & UGC-approved
Fees: Rs. 74,400 for a 2-year degree
Best For: Students wanting modern learning tools at reasonable costs.
9. Chandigarh University
Chandigarh University was founded in 2012 in the village of Gharuan in the district of Mohali, Punjab, India. It is one of the best colleges for distance MBA in India with an NAAC grade of A+. The institution is shattering the stereotype of traditional campus learning processes by providing opportunities to those who are disadvantaged due to economic, social, or geographical constraints. CU has made strides in distance and open learning, achieving milestones year after year. The objective of CU IDOL is to foster excellence through the use of technology, namely a Learning Management System (LMS) interface between the institution and the learner.
Key features:
- LMS-enabled learning
- NAAC A+ rated
- Well-designed self-learning material
Fees: Rs. 11,950- 14,450 for a 2-year degree
Best For: Students looking for the lowest fees with top accreditation.
10. Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida
Shiv Nadar University School of Management and Entrepreneurship is recognized by the Government of India as an Institute of Eminence (IoE) and offers a two-year online MBA program. Padma Bhushan Shiv Nadar, the Founder, and Chairman of HCL as well as the Founder and Chairman of Shiv Nadar Foundation, launched Shiv Nadar University in 2011 with the objective of creating a world-renowned institution for multidisciplinary education that is entrenched in innovation and research.
Key features:
- 1000+ learning hours
- Mentorship from industry experts
- Capstone projects included
- 6200+ hiring partners
Fees: Rs. 4,00,000 for a 2-year degree
Best For: Working executives seeking a high-end MBA with leadership focus.
How to Choose the Best Distance MBA College in India?
When selecting the best college for online/distance MBA, consider:
1. Accreditation & Approval
Ensure the university is:
- UGC-DEB approved
- AICTE recognized
- Preferably NAAC A or above
2. LMS & Online Learning Quality
- A good LMS should include:
- Recorded lectures
- Live sessions
- E-books & case studies
- Discussion forums
3. Placement Support
Many top colleges offer career guidance, mock interviews, and job portals.
4. Fee & Affordability
Choose based on ROI and your budget.
5. Specializations Offered
Some trending specializations include:
- Business Analytics
- Finance
- HRM
- Operations
- IT & Systems
- International Business
Conclusion: Which Is The Best Distance MBA College in India?
The Top Distance MBA Colleges in India listed above are all credible and offer strong academic value. Your ideal choice depends on budget, learning preference, and career goals.
- Best for Affordability: IGNOU, Chandigarh University
- Best for Industry Exposure: Manipal University, Shiv Nadar University
- Best for Overall Value: LPU, Jain University, Symbiosis SCDL
- Best for Management Excellence: IMT CDL
With flexible learning and recognized degrees, distance/online MBAs open doors to better career opportunities without requiring you to leave your job.
