Bihar accounts for 10% of online learners in 2024, reveals a study by College Vidya
Bihar, traditionally known for its challenges in public education, has lately emerged as one of the largest contributors to online learning in India. A study conducted by College Vidya, a one-stop solution for making informed online education choices among 1 lakh students, reveals that Bihar accounts for 10% of online learners in 2024, registering an increase from 6% in 2023.
The number of online learners from Bihar has surged by 40% in the last five years, reflecting a significant shift towards digital education. The top online courses opted are MBA, BBA, MCA, BCA, B Com, and BA programs among the state’s students. The average cost of these courses varies, with semester-wise fees around INR 21,380, annual payments at INR 38,238, and full payments reaching INR 1,19,819. The study also highlights a significant portion of learners from Bihar pursuing degree programs, with more than 80% engaged in such courses rather than short-term certifications.
Individuals (46% working and 54% of full-time students) in Patna, Muzaffarpur, Gaya, Ara, and Araria are turning to online courses due to a lack of quality universities, insufficient educational infrastructure, and financial constraints. Their average age range is diverse, with 34% aged between 15 and 20, 36% between 21 and 25, and 25% between 26 and 35. The gender distribution also paints a unique picture, with a male-to-female ratio of 73:27, contrasting with other states.
Rohit Gupta, Co-founder & COO of College Vidya said, “With Bihar’s rapid growth in online education, we are witnessing a transformative shift in how education is accessed and pursued in the state. The surge in online learners is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of students in Bihar, driven by their quest for knowledge despite infrastructural challenges. This significant increase underscores the critical role online education plays in bridging educational gaps and providing opportunities for learners across the region.”
Government initiatives like the Tele-Education System for Children with Special Needs (CWSN), the Vidyavahini Bihar App, Mera Mobile Mera Vidyalaya, and Unnayan Bihar are pivotal in promoting online education in the state. These programs complement the overall increase in the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in higher education in Bihar, which rose to 17.1% in the 2021-22 academic year.