Master of Library and Information Science [M.Lib.I.Sc]
Accepted entrance exams
About Master of Library and Information Science [M.Lib.I.Sc]
The Master of Library and Information Science (M.Lib.I.Sc) programme at the University of Kerala's School of Distance Education (SDE) is a 1-year (2-semester) postgraduate professional course offered in distance/ODL mode, recognised by UGC-DEB. With a total fee of approximately Rs. 9,775 (for Kerala University graduates), it is one of the most affordable M.Lib.I.Sc programmes in the country. The programme is designed for B.Lib.I.Sc holders who wish to advance their career in library management, information systems, and research. It covers advanced topics including Information Knowledge and Communication, Information Processing and Retrieval, Information Technology Applications, Information Systems Management, Research Methodology, and a Dissertation with Viva-Voce. It is popular among working library professionals seeking higher qualifications.
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 M.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 M.Lib.I.Sc. 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 PG library science programmes available in distance mode.
- 75% attendance at contact classes/practicals/seminars is compulsory for M.Lib.I.Sc.
- A valid DEB ID and ABC ID (Academic Bank of Credits) are mandatory for admission.
- The programme includes a Dissertation (75 marks) and Viva-Voce (25 marks) in the second semester.
- The degree is recognised by PSC and other universities for senior library positions and academic research.
- Students can pursue this programme simultaneously with another full-time on-campus programme as per UGC guidelines.
University of Kerala SDE M.Lib.I.Sc Fees
The M.Lib.I.Sc programme at University of Kerala SDE is highly affordable. For Kerala University graduates, the total programme fee is Rs. 9,775, while Calicut University graduates pay Rs. 9,880 and those from other universities/states pay Rs. 10,195. 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
| Fee Component | Kerala University Graduates | Calicut University Graduates | Other University/State Graduates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prospectus Fee | Rs. 265 | Rs. 265 | Rs. 265 |
| Admission Fee | Rs. 160 | Rs. 160 | Rs. 160 |
| Affiliation Fee | Rs. 420 | Rs. 420 | Rs. 420 |
| Tuition Fee (Sem 1) | Rs. 1,575 | Rs. 1,575 | Rs. 1,575 |
| Tuition Fee (Sem 2) | Rs. 1,575 | Rs. 1,575 | Rs. 1,575 |
| Other Fees | Rs. 2,100 | Rs. 2,100 | Rs. 2,100 |
| Other Fees (Sem 1) | Rs. 160 | Rs. 160 | Rs. 160 |
| Matriculation Fee | - | Rs. 105 | Rs. 105 |
| Recognition Fee | - | - | Rs. 315 |
| Department Development Fund (DDF) | Rs. 105 | Rs. 105 | Rs. 105 |
| Total Fees | Rs. 9,775 | Rs. 9,880 | Rs. 10,195 |
- 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 M.Lib.I.Sc Admission 2026
Admission to M.Lib.I.Sc at University of Kerala SDE is open to all eligible B.Lib.I.Sc holders. 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)
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Registration Opens | 05 July 2026 |
| Online Registration Closes (M.Lib.I.Sc) | 10 September 2026 |
| Hard Copy Submission Deadline | Within 10 days of online submission |
| Academic Session Begins | July-August 2026 |
| Next Admission Cycle (Tentative) | July 2027 |
The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.
Eligibility Criteria
- Bachelor's degree in Library and Information Science (B.Lib.I.Sc) from the University of Kerala, or B.LISc degree of any other university recognised as equivalent thereto.
- No minimum percentage is specified beyond a pass in the qualifying B.Lib.I.Sc examination.
- Candidates from outside Kerala University must obtain an Eligibility Certificate from the Registrar.
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 M.Lib.I.Sc Scholarships 2026
Students admitted to M.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
| Scholarship/Concession | Eligibility | Amount/Benefit | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| e-Grantz (SC/ST) | SC/ST category students | Full tuition fee waiver | Fee credited directly to student's bank account via e-Grantz; apply through Akshaya Kendra |
| e-Grantz (OEC/OBC-H) | OEC/OBC(H) category students | Tuition fee concession | Apply through Akshaya Kendra with caste and income certificate |
| Fisheries Department e-Grantz | Children of fishermen | Fee concession | Apply through Akshaya Kendra with Matsya Thozhilali Kshema Nidhi Board documents |
| Post-Matric Scholarship (Central Govt.) | SC/ST students | Maintenance allowance + fees | Apply through National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) |
| Merit-cum-Means Scholarship | Minority community students | Up to Rs. 10,000/year | Apply through National Scholarship Portal |
- 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 M.Lib.I.Sc FAQs
Q1. Is the M.Lib.I.Sc degree from Kerala University SDE valid for senior library positions and academic jobs?
Ans. Yes, the M.Lib.I.Sc degree awarded by the University of Kerala through SDE is equivalent to the regular on-campus degree. It is recognised by PSC, UGC, and other universities for senior library positions, academic library jobs, and research. It also qualifies holders to appear for UGC NET in Library and Information Science.
Q2. What is the attendance requirement for M.Lib.I.Sc at Kerala University SDE?
Ans. 75% attendance at contact classes/practicals/seminars is compulsory for M.Lib.I.Sc. Students who cannot meet this requirement can pay a condonation fee of Rs. 525 per semester to be eligible for the end-semester examination.
Q3. How is the Dissertation evaluated in M.Lib.I.Sc at Kerala University SDE?
Ans. The Dissertation carries 75 marks and the Viva-Voce carries 25 marks. The internal assessment for each paper is 25 marks (assignments only). The terminal examination for each paper is 3 hours duration carrying 75 marks. Minimum pass marks for each paper is 40%.
Q4. Can I pursue M.Lib.I.Sc at Kerala University SDE if my B.Lib.I.Sc is 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.
Q5. What is the classification of results for M.Lib.I.Sc at Kerala University SDE?
Ans. Results are classified as: Distinction (80% and above), First Class (60% to 79%), Second Class (50% to 59%), and Third Class (40% to 49%). Candidates who pass all semester examinations in the first appearance within the minimum period are eligible for ranking.
Q6. Can I appear for UGC NET Library Science after completing M.Lib.I.Sc from Kerala University SDE?
Ans. Yes, M.Lib.I.Sc from the University of Kerala (SDE or regular) qualifies you to appear for UGC NET in Library and Information Science (Paper I - General and Paper II - Library and Information Science). This opens up opportunities for Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship positions in library science.