The National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), previously known as the National Open School (NOS), was founded in November 1989 as an independent organization under the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
NIOS offers a variety of programs including vocational, life skills, and community-based courses, in addition to general academic courses at both the secondary and senior secondary levels.
The National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), often referred to as the Open School, serves a diverse group of learners up to the pre-degree level.
Initiated in 1979 as a flexible educational project under the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), it evolved significantly over the years.
The 1986 National Policy on Education emphasized expanding open learning systems nationwide, leading to the establishment of the National Open School (NOS) by the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
Open Basic Education (OBE) Program: Designed for individuals aged 14 and above, offering education equivalent to grades III, V, and VIII.
Secondary and Senior Secondary Education: Flexible courses allowing learners to choose subjects and transfer credits from CBSE and State Boards.
Vocational Education Programs: Covering agriculture, business, engineering, health, IT, and hospitality sectors.
Life Enrichment Programs focused on holistic development and lifelong learning.
NIOS supports its OBE program through partnerships with approximately 853 agencies providing study centers, curriculum resources, training and certification.
NIOS functions through an extensive network comprising departments, regional centers, study centers, and accredited vocational institutions across India and abroad.
With a cumulative enrollment of over 4 million learners, NIOS stands as the world's largest open schooling system.