Bachelor of Library and Information Science [B.Lib.I.Sc]

The Bachelor of Library and Information Science (B.Lib.I.Sc) programme at the University of Kerala's School of Distance Education (SDE) is a 1-year (2-semester) undergraduate professional course offered in distance/ODL mode, recognised by UGC-DEB. With a total fee of approximately Rs. 3,520 (for Kerala University graduates), it is one of the most affordable library science programmes in the country. The programme is designed for graduates who wish to pursue a career in library management, information services, and documentation. It is popular among working library staff, teachers, and graduates seeking professional qualification in library science.

Admissions for the 2026-27 academic session (July-August 2026 batch) are now closed. Online registration was open from 05 July 2026 to 10 September 2026. The next admission cycle is expected to open in July 2027.

Distance Mode Centres:

The B.Lib.I.Sc programme is offered exclusively in distance/ODL mode. Personal Contact Programmes (PCP) are conducted at the SDE campus, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram. 75% attendance is compulsory for B.Lib.I.Sc (unlike other UG programmes where 50% is required). Additional PCP centres outside Thiruvananthapuram may be set up subject to sufficient student registration.

Key Points

• The programme is recognised by UGC-DEB and approved for ODL (Open and Distance Learning) mode.
• Duration is 1 year (2 semesters); one of the shortest professional library science programmes available in distance mode.
• 75% attendance at PCP/seminars is compulsory for B.Lib.I.Sc.
• A valid DEB ID and ABC ID (Academic Bank of Credits) are mandatory for admission.
• The programme covers Library and Society, Library Management, Library Classification, Cataloguing, Information Sources, Services and Systems, and Information Technology.
• The degree is recognised by PSC and other universities for employment in library positions.
• Students can pursue this programme simultaneously with another full-time on-campus programme as per UGC guidelines.

University of Kerala SDE B.Lib.I.Sc Fees

The B.Lib.I.Sc programme at University of Kerala SDE is highly affordable. For Kerala University graduates, the total programme fee is Rs. 3,520, while Calicut University graduates pay Rs. 3,625 and those from other universities/states pay Rs. 3,940. The fee is paid semester-wise. SC/ST/OEC/OBC(H) category students are exempt from tuition fees and receive fee reimbursement through the e-Grantz scheme.

Fee Structure

• Library membership fee of Rs. 525 is charged separately, of which Rs. 420 is refundable on completion of the course.
• SC/ST/OEC/OBC(H) students are exempt from tuition fees; fee reimbursement is through the e-Grantz scheme.
• Fees can be remitted online at www.ideku.net, via pay-in-slip at University cash counters, or by Demand Draft (SBI) in favour of the Finance Officer, University of Kerala.
• A service charge of Rs. 10 is applicable for each DD remittance.
• Hostel facility is not applicable for distance education students.

University of Kerala SDE B.Lib.I.Sc Admission 2026

Admission to B.Lib.I.Sc at University of Kerala SDE is open to all eligible graduates. Candidates must apply online through www.ideku.net or www.sde.keralauniversity.ac.in. The 2026-27 admission cycle (July-August 2026 batch) has closed. The next cycle is expected to open in July 2027. Candidates from outside Kerala University must obtain an Eligibility Certificate from the Registrar before applying.

Admission Dates (2026-27 Session)

The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.

Eligibility Criteria

• A pass in Bachelor's degree of the University of Kerala with not less than 40% marks, or a degree of any other university recognised as equivalent thereto with not less than 40% marks.
• SC/ST candidates: 5% relaxation (minimum 35% marks). OBC candidates: 3% relaxation (minimum 37% marks).
• Candidates with a higher degree are also eligible to apply.

Admission Process

• Visit www.ideku.net or www.sde.keralauniversity.ac.in and click on the Online Admission link for 2026-27.
• Read the online admission instructions carefully and verify eligibility before remitting fees.
• Remit the first semester tuition fee and other applicable fees online.
• Complete online registration and generate application number.
• Send hard copy of the application form along with fee receipts, DDF receipt (Rs. 105), and required documents (TC, qualifying certificates in original, SSLC copy, passport photo, Aadhar card, ABC ID card) to the Director, CDOE, SDE, University of Kerala, Kariavattom Campus, Thiruvananthapuram - 695 581, by Registered/Speed Post within 10 days of online submission.
• SC/ST/OEC/OBC(H) candidates must submit e-Grantz printout and relevant caste/income certificates.
• A valid DEB ID (generated via UGC-DEB portal using ABC ID) is mandatory for enrollment.

University of Kerala SDE B.Lib.I.Sc Scholarships 2026

Students admitted to B.Lib.I.Sc at University of Kerala SDE can avail of several government scholarships and fee concessions. SC/ST students are fully exempt from tuition fees through the e-Grantz scheme, while OBC/SEBC students also receive fee concessions. Central and state government scholarships are available for eligible students.

Scholarship Details

• SC/ST/OEC/OBC(H) students must submit e-Grantz application printout from Akshaya Kendra along with community certificate, income certificate, Aadhar copy, and bank passbook copy at the time of admission.
• Students receiving e-Grantz must withdraw the credited amount and remit tuition/examination fees to SDE within 7 days of credit.
• Application deadlines for central scholarships are typically October-November each year; check scholarships.gov.in for current deadlines.

University of Kerala SDE B.Lib.I.Sc FAQs

Ques. Is the B.Lib.I.Sc degree from Kerala University SDE valid for government library jobs?

Ans. Yes, the B.Lib.I.Sc degree awarded by the University of Kerala through SDE is equivalent to the regular on-campus degree and is recognised by PSC (Public Service Commission) for library-related government positions. It is also recognised by other universities for admission to M.Lib.I.Sc programmes.

Ques. What is the attendance requirement for B.Lib.I.Sc at Kerala University SDE?

Ans. 75% attendance at PCP/seminars is compulsory for B.Lib.I.Sc, which is stricter than other UG programmes (which require 50%). Students who cannot meet this requirement can pay a condonation fee of Rs. 525 per semester.

Ques. Can I pursue B.Lib.I.Sc at Kerala University SDE if I have a degree from a university outside Kerala?

Ans. Yes, you can apply. However, you must obtain an Eligibility Certificate from the Registrar, University of Kerala. The fee for this certificate is Rs. 370 for degrees from outside Kerala but within India. You must also submit a Migration Certificate from your previous university.

Ques. What subjects are covered in the B.Lib.I.Sc programme at Kerala University SDE?

Ans. The programme covers Library and Society, Library Management, Library Classification and Cataloguing (Theory and Practical), Information Sources, Services and Systems, Information Technology (Theory and Practical), and Library Cataloguing (Practical). The total marks are 800 across 2 semesters.

Ques. Is there any entrance exam for B.Lib.I.Sc at Kerala University SDE?

Ans. No, there is no entrance exam. Admission is based on eligibility (minimum 40% in graduation) and availability of seats. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis subject to reservation norms.

Ques. Can I pursue M.Lib.I.Sc after completing B.Lib.I.Sc from Kerala University SDE?

Ans. Yes, B.Lib.I.Sc from the University of Kerala (SDE or regular) is the qualifying degree for admission to M.Lib.I.Sc at Kerala University SDE. The M.Lib.I.Sc is a 1-year (2-semester) programme also offered through SDE.