TNOU MLIS 2026: Eligibility, Fee, Duration and Syllabus
The Master of Library and Information Science (M.Lib.I.Sc / MLIS) at Tamil Nadu Open University (TNOU) is a 1-year postgraduate programme offered through the School of Library and Information Science in ODL mode. Applicants holding a Bachelor of Library and Information Science (B.Lib.I.Sc / B.L.I.Sc) degree are eligible to apply. The annual tuition fee is ₹5,000, with full fee waivers available for physically challenged candidates.
Key facts
| Programme Name | Master of Library and Information Science (M.Lib.I.Sc.) |
|---|---|
| Offering School | School of Library and Information Science (SOLIS) |
| Minimum Duration | 1 Year |
| Eligibility | B.Lib.I.Sc / B.L.I.Sc degree |
| Medium of Instruction | English only |
| Programme Fee | ₹5,000 per year (plus registration charges) |
| Passing Minimum | 50% in each course (CIA and TEE) |
| AY 2026-27 Admission Last Date | 13 October 2026 |
Programme Overview and Delivery Scheme
The Master of Library and Information Science (M.Lib.I.Sc.) programme is conducted by the School of Library and Information Science at TNOU under Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode. The degree aims to build advanced skills in library management, ICT application, and information literacy.
The programme follows a Credit System / Choice Based Credit System (CBCS) structured in semester or non-semester patterns. The medium of instruction and examination is English only.
TNOU MLIS Programme Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Degree Name | Master of Library and Information Science (M.Lib.I.Sc.) |
| Offering Department | Department of Library Science, SOLIS |
| Learning Mode | Open and Distance Learning (ODL) |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Minimum Duration | 1 Year |
Eligibility Criteria and Fee Structure
Candidates seeking admission to the MLIS degree must possess a professional undergraduate degree in library science. Tuition fees are payable annually, and TNOU provides a full tuition waiver for eligible physically challenged students.
MLIS Admission Criteria and Fee Details
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Qualifying Degree | B.Lib.I.Sc / B.L.I.Sc from a recognized university |
| Annual Tuition Fee | ₹5,000 per year |
| Additional Fee | Registration and processing charges as applicable |
| Fee Concession | 100% admission fee waiver for physically challenged / differently abled applicants across Tamil Nadu |
Personal Contact Programme (PCP) and Practical Sessions
The MLIS programme integrates practical training sessions alongside theoretical learning to ensure competence in information handling and library classification.
- PCP Duration: Personal Contact Programmes for theory and practice total 12 days, split into two rounds of 6 days each.
- Practical Tools: Practical teaching and subject indexing use the Sears List of Subject Headings (21st Edition – 2014).
- Practical Examination Date: The practical exam for M.Lisc. is scheduled on 07 October 2026.
Evaluation Pattern and Passing Minimum
Evaluation for each MLIS course consists of Continuous Internal Assessment (CIA) through written assignments and a Term-End Examination (TEE) held by the university.
- TEE Duration: 3 hours written examination.
- TEE Question Paper Format: Section A requires answering 5 out of 8 questions (300 words each). Section B requires answering 3 out of 5 questions (1000 words each).
MLIS Assessment Component Marks
| Assessment Type | Maximum Marks | Passing Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Continuous Internal Assessment (CIA) | 30 Marks | Minimum 50% required |
| Term-End Examination (TEE) | 70 Marks | Minimum 50% required |
| Total Marks Per Course | 100 Marks | Minimum 50% aggregate in both CIA and TEE separately |
Step-by-Step Online Admission Procedure
Prospective learners can apply online through the TNOU online admission portal. The last date for online registration for the Academic Year 2026-27 is 13 October 2026.
- Open the TNOU online admission portal and select the link for fresh application registration.
- Select the Master of Library and Information Science (M.Lib.I.Sc.) programme.
- Enter personal details, educational qualifications (B.Lib.I.Sc details), and contact information.
- Upload scanned copies of required certificates and documents.
- Pay the ₹5,000 annual fee plus registration charges using online payment services.
- Submit the application form and print the generated admission confirmation receipt.
Curriculum Design and Academic Support
The MLIS syllabus is structured under the supervision of the Curriculum Development Cell and approved by the statutory Board of Studies.
Self-Learning Materials (SLM) are provided to students, combining textbook content with reference books, web resources, and multimedia tools to facilitate distance learning.
Important TNOU links
| What you can do | Official page |
|---|---|
| Register for MLIS online admission | tnouportal.in/OnlineadmissionHomeAY2026.aspx |
| View SOLIS department information | tnou.ac.in/SchoolLibrary.php |
| Learn about TNOU curriculum cell | tnou.ac.in/Cell-CDC.php |
| Check general university prospectus | tnou.ac.in/ProspectusNew.php |
| Contact university help desk | tnou.ac.in/Help-Desk.php |
Official documents (PDF)
- PG Diploma in Library Automation and Networking PDF — Syllabus for PG Diploma in Library Automation and Networking
Frequently asked questions
What is the eligibility required for MLIS at TNOU?
Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Library and Information Science (B.Lib.I.Sc / B.L.I.Sc) degree from a recognized university. Instruction and examinations are in English only.
What is the tuition fee for the MLIS programme?
The programme fee for MLIS is ₹5,000 for one year, plus registration and processing charges. Differently abled candidates receive a complete admission fee waiver across Tamil Nadu.
What is the duration of the MLIS course at TNOU?
The Master of Library and Information Science is a 1-year postgraduate degree program offered in distance learning mode.
Are practical classes conducted for MLIS distance learners?
Yes. Personal Contact Programme (PCP) classes for theory and practical work are held for a total of 12 days, split into two 6-day rounds.
What is the passing mark for TNOU MLIS exams?
Students must secure at least 50% marks in Continuous Internal Assessment (30 marks) and 50% in the Term-End Examination (70 marks) for each course.
What is the last date to apply for TNOU MLIS admission for AY 2026-27?
The last date for online admission for the AY 2026-27 session is extended up to 13 October 2026.
Sources
Written from the official TNOU pages and documents below, as read on 3 October 2026.
- MLISc.pdf tnou.ac.in/…/MLISc.pdf
- Online Admission tnouportal.in/…/OnlineadmissionHomeAY2026.aspx
- Curriculum Development Cell tnou.ac.in/…/Cell-CDC.php
- School of Social Sciences tnou.ac.in/…/SchoolSocial.php
- School of Library and Information Science tnou.ac.in/…/SchoolLibrary.php