The Open University of Sri Lanka

BA in Social Sciences at Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL)

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The Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences offered by The Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) is a three-year undergraduate degree conducted by the Department of Social Studies under the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Degree Details & 2026/27 Dates

  • Awarding Institution: The Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL)
  • Faculty: Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
  • Department: Department of Social Studies
  • Degree Title: Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences
  • Academic Intake: 2026/2027
  • Duration: 3 Academic Years
  • Medium of Instruction: English
  • Applications Open: 01st September 2026
  • Applications Close: 30th September 2026
  • Application Fee: Rs. 500/-

Who Is This Degree Designed For?

  • School leavers with A/L qualifications seeking an affordable, UGC-recognized state university degree.
  • Working professionals in non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil services, media, or corporate sectors needing a formal bachelor’s degree for career advancement.
  • Students pursuing parallel professional diplomas who want an academic degree alongside their practical credentials.
  • Individuals with prior vocational qualifications (NVQ Level 4) or OUSL foundation courses looking to bridge into higher education.

Admission Requirements & Selection Test

To qualify for entry into the BA in Social Sciences program, applicants must meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • A/L Route: Minimum of three (03) passes at the G.C.E. (A/L) Examination in any subject stream.
  • OUSL Foundation Route: Successful completion of any Foundation Programme offered by OUSL.
  • Credit Route: A minimum of 30 credits at SLQF Level 2 or above from any programme approved by the OUSL Senate.
  • NVQ Route: An accredited qualification or relevant work experience equivalent to NVQ Level 4.
  • Senate Equivalent Route: An equivalent or higher qualification acceptable to the OUSL Senate.

How to Apply Online

  1. Visit the official OUSL portal at [https://ou.ac.lk/dept-of-social-studies/](https://ou.ac.lk/dept-of-social-studies/).
  2. Click on the Apply Online link and register a user account.
  3. Complete the online application form with accurate academic and personal details.
  4. Pay the non-refundable online application fee of Rs. 500/- using a Credit/Debit Card.
  5. If you do not have a Credit/Debit Card, you may make the payment in cash at any OUSL Regional or Study Centre and upload the receipt online.
  6. Submit your finalized application before the closing date of 30th September 2026.
Apply Online

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the OUSL BA in Social Sciences recognized by the government and UGC?

Yes. The Open University of Sri Lanka is a national state university established under the Universities Act. Its degrees are recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and are valid for government employment and postgraduate applications worldwide.

Do I need to attend daily classes on campus?

No. OUSL uses a blended distance learning model. You study independently using prescribed materials and LMS tools, attending scheduled day school seminars periodically at your local study center.

Can I apply if I did A/Ls in Commerce, Science, or Technology streams?Yes. Passes in any three subjects at the G.C.E. A/L examination fulfill the basic entry requirements for this program.