In a nutshell, if you choose a regular course at DU, you'll have to attend classes and maintain a certain attendance percentage, usually around 70-75%. Exams happen twice a year following the semester system. Being in a regular course means you can enjoy college life, make new friends, and have a great time. Plus, a regular degree usually holds more value than an open learning (SOL) degree.
On the other hand, the School of Open Learning (SOL) doesn't require you to attend classes, although they do offer a one-month PCP class that few people attend. Exams for SOL are conducted once a year, and they tend to be a bit easier than those in regular courses. Honestly, there's not much else that's appealing about SOL (trust me, I'm regretting my choice). However, it's a good option if you want to pursue courses like CA or actuarial science alongside your degree. I'm also studying actuarial science while being in SOL, but I really wish I could transfer to a regular college, which isn't possible once you're enrolled in SOL. Although, you can switch from a DU college to SOL. My advice would be to get into a regular college if you can, and if things don't work out, you can always move to SOL.
Thanks and good luck! By the way, SOL has also switched to the semester system, so now exams are held twice a year as well. So really, it’s about whether you want to spend time going to college or not.
I chose the BA program at SOL because I was interested in pursuing humanities without the pressure of regular college attendance. The exams are conducted each semester, and while they can be challenging, I appreciate the flexibility of the course. The fees are affordable, approximately 4500 per year, which is a big plus for me.
However, the lack of scholarships and campus placements for regular job opportunities is a drawback, as many students still need financial assistance. The faculty is good, but sometimes their availability can be limited due to the distance learning model.
There's quite a bit of difference: The SOL course at DU isn't like regular college courses. You don't have to attend classes every day; you can finish your degree from home. However, when it comes to private jobs, a degree from a regular college often holds more weight because they usually prefer higher percentages and regular college attendance. For government jobs, though, both degrees are considered equal.
In regular college, daily attendance is required, with a minimum of 75% attendance needed to take exams, and you also have to submit assignments, unlike in SOL.
Think of a regular course at DU like a big, three-year wedding celebration with lots of events and fun. On the other hand, choosing SOL is more like having a simple, quick court marriage. Both ways, you end up with a partner, which is your graduation degree. Just a heads-up, now it's a four-year journey!
I decided to go with the BA program at SOL mainly because it offers a chance to get a degree while I prepare for competitive exams. The course curriculum is relevant, but I wish they would update it more often. The fees are low, generally around 4000-5000 per year, which is great for students like me from middle-class families. Unfortunately, there are no scholarships available, and the lack of social life and extracurricular activities can make the experience feel a bit isolated. Overall, SOL is a decent choice if you're looking to balance studies with other pursuits.
DU SOL, New Delhi