On June 1, 1996, Karnataka State Open University, Mysuru was established. It is a public distance learning university offering high profile quality education in the field of higher education for deserving candidates.

The university is a recognized by the Distance Education Council (DEC), New Delhi, regular member of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), Delhi, permanent member of Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), London, UK, Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU), Beijing, China, and also has association with Commonwealth of Learning (COL).

It is situated at the North-Western end of the Manasagangotri campus, Mysuru. The campus, which is about 5 Kms, from the city centre, has a serene atmosphere ideally suited for academic pursuits.

At present, the university houses the administrative Office, academic block, lecture halls, a well-equipped library, guest house cottages, a moderate canteen, girls hostel and a few cottages providing limited accommodation to students coming to Mysore for attending the contact programmes or term-end examinations.