Nalanda Open University is unique and one of its kind as it is the only university in the state of Bihar that is offering a distance learning study program to students. It is one of the most highly prestigious universities. This institute was established in the year 1987 by an ordinance. Later the Bihar Legislature Nalanda Open University Act of 1995 was passed. This helped the University to get into the direct authority of the new Act. 

The name of the University “Nalanda”, is taken from one of the famous Ancient Indian University that is Nalanda University. The University's main office is located in Patna, Bihar. Currently, the University is recognized by many organizations like DEC(Distance Education Council), the University Grants Commission, (UGC), Ministry of Human Resource & Development, Government of India.

The University provides better educational opportunities through different modes of education like correspondence mode. The University is spread over an area of 60,000 sq feet that is an examination center for more than 1000 students, has a state library that has 50,000 different titles, a computer lab of more than 300 computers, and a modern infrastructure.

The University removes hindrances for the students by being flexible in eligibility matters. This institute is very beneficial, especially for some specific categories of students, like housewives, elderly people, in-service personnel, and people residing in rural areas, who are socially discriminated people, and many more. They offer both, conventional as well as vocational courses in UG, PG, and other diploma courses. It is creating awareness regarding self-sufficiency, and providing all types of courses related to rural, design learning material, agricultural, commercial, and industrial needs. 

The University is helping to uplift society by creating a better learning environment. This institute has 10 schools in total that are School of Computer Education and Information Technology, the School of Economics, Commerce, and Management, the School of Indian and Foreign Languages, the School of Health and Environmental Science, the School of Indology, the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, and the School of Pure and Agricultural Sciences, School of Social Sciences. 

Courses offered by Nalanda Open University