The cost of a Master of Arts (MA) in History is quite different based on the institution type- government or private. In government universities such as Delhi University, JNU, or BHU, the entire fee for the two-year course is generally between INR 1,200 and INR 7,000; thus, it is affordable. However, in private universities and deemed institutions, they can charge between INR 32,000 and INR 1,13,000. Other expenses might cover library deposits, examination fees, and hostel fees.
MA in History is a two-year postgraduate program spread over four semesters, covering ancient, medieval, and modern history, research methodology, and historiography. A few universities have specializations in regional, cultural, or international history. Public university fees being low, it is affordable to a diverse group of students, particularly for those who are preparing to enter academic, civil services, or research professions. Institutions such as IGNOU also provide distance learning for approximately INR 9,000 in total, providing flexibility for working students.
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MA History Top Colleges Fees 2025/2026
The MA History program remains one of the most affordable postgraduate options in India, especially when pursued at top public universities. Institutions like JNU, Delhi University, and BHU offer the course with minimal fees ranging from INR 3,000 to INR 15,000 for the entire two years. In contrast, private universities such as Ashoka or Amity charge higher fees, typically between INR 60,000 to INR 1,50,000 per year. Distance learning options like IGNOU offer excellent flexibility at just INR 9,000 for the full course. Despite the cost differences, these programs provide strong academic foundations and are well-suited for careers in teaching, research, and civil services.
MA History Fees in Top Government Colleges in India
Given below are the fees for MA History in Government Colleges in India:
MA History Fees in Top Private Colleges in India
Given below are the fees for MA History in Private Colleges in India:
Also Read: MA Ancient History
MA History Fees in Some States in India
Each state in India has reputed colleges offering an MA in History course. The fees for studying MA in History a few states like Karnataka, Delhi, West Bengal, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu are given below:
MA History Fees in Karnataka
MA History Fees in Delhi
MA History Fees in West Bengal
MA History Fees in Rajasthan
MA History Fees FAQs
Why the fee differential is so wide between private and public universities for MA History?
The fee differential occurs principally due to government subsidies in public universities. Public universities like Delhi University, JNU, and BHU are provided with gigantic state or central government funding, enabling them to provide quality education at a reasonable price (as little as INR 3,000–INR 15,000 for two years). But private colleges are also not subsidized, paying for infrastructure, staff, and buildings through students' fees, thus more higher yearly fees-in the range of INR 60,000 to INR 1.5 lakh. This difference also accounts for other amenities such as smaller classes, international collaborations, or placement assistance in private colleges.
Are there additional fees apart from tuition charges in MA History courses?
Yes, apart from tuition fees, students can incur other costs like examination fees, library deposits, study guides, and printing of theses. Participation in optional seminars, study tours (particularly archaeology/history field schools), and journal subscription at some institutions may also be part of the cost. Hostel and mess fees are additional and could be between INR 10,000 to INR 50,000 annually depending on the college. These fees generally do not fall under the fee that is advertised and need to be factored in while planning finances.
Am I eligible to receive scholarships or financial assistance for MA History even if the fees are nominal?
Yes. Although most of the government colleges charge low fees, there are need and merit scholarships, in particular, for SC/ST/OBC, EWS, and PwD students. JNU and BHU grant stipends monthly, waive fees, or provide concessional hostel facilities. Half tuition fee concessions on a merit or test performance basis are granted by few private universities. External funding is provided by bodies such as UGC (e.g., PG Merit Scholarship) to meritorious students.
Are distance education MA History courses of the same worth at lesser fees?
Yes, distance education courses—like those of IGNOU or state open universities—offer quality degrees for a small fraction (typically less than INR 10,000 for the entire course). Though they miss the campus life and class interaction of traditional courses, they provide affordability and convenience, which appeals to working professionals or those who cannot afford the money to take traditional courses. To most government and academic career opportunities, the degree is as desirable as long as the institution is recognized by UGC.
