Kerala University MA Politics: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. No, a BA in Political Science is not mandatory. The CSS PG Entrance Examination for MA Politics at Kerala University is open to graduates from any discipline. However, the entrance exam tests knowledge of Political Science and related social science subjects, so candidates with a background in Political Science, History, Economics, or Sociology tend to have a natural advantage. Students from other streams are advised to prepare thoroughly using standard Political Science textbooks and previous year question papers.

Ans. With only 18 seats available and hundreds of applicants from across Kerala, the CSS PG Entrance Exam for MA Politics is quite competitive. The exam typically covers topics such as Political Theory, Indian Government and Politics, International Relations, Comparative Politics, and General Knowledge. Most successful candidates recommend studying standard texts like O.P. Gauba's Political Theory, B.L. Fadia's Indian Government and Politics, and Goldstein's International Relations, along with current affairs. Solving previous year question papers from the Kerala University CSS PG exam is highly recommended.

Ans. Kerala University provides separate PG hostels for men and women at the Kariavattom campus. Hostel admission is restricted to students from University departments, so MA Politics students are eligible to apply. The hostel fee for female students is approximately Rs. 6,115 per year. Applications for hostel admission are made through the online hostel portal at hostel.keralauniversity.ac.in. Allotment is based on a rank list, and seats are limited, so early application is advised. Hostel accommodation is not mandatory and is subject to availability.

Ans. Graduates of MA Politics from Kerala University pursue a wide range of careers. Many appear for civil services examinations (UPSC, Kerala PSC) where Political Science is a popular optional subject. Others go into academia and research, pursuing M.Phil or Ph.D. programmes. Career options also include journalism, policy research, NGO work, international organisations, and diplomatic services. The programme's focus on International Relations and Diplomacy also opens doors for careers in think tanks, foreign affairs, and international development organisations. The university's location in Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital, provides networking opportunities with government and policy institutions.

Ans. Yes, seat allotment for MA Politics at Kerala University follows the Kerala government's reservation policy. Out of the 18 seats, reservations are provided for SC, ST, OBC, and other eligible communities as per the state norms. The allotment is done based on the rank secured in the CSS PG Entrance Examination, subject to category-wise reservation. Candidates are allotted seats through an online counselling/allotment process after the rank list is published. It is important to note that management quota seats are not available for this programme as it is a university department course.

Ans. Yes, students who have completed their graduation from any recognized university in India are eligible to apply for MA Politics at Kerala University through the CSS PG Entrance Examination. There is no restriction based on the state or university of the qualifying degree. However, the rank list and allotment are common for all applicants, and candidates must meet the minimum eligibility criteria of 45% marks in their Bachelor's degree (40% for SC/ST/OBC). Out-of-state candidates should also be aware that hostel accommodation, while available, is limited and subject to availability.