Indira Gandhi National Open University is a public university approved by NCTE and AICTE. It offers a number of open learning programs and is well known and recognized among a number of different organizations like the Association of Indian Universities, therefore, doing a B.A. degree from here is a good choice. The following points highlight important aspects of obtaining a B.A degree from the institute.

Academics:

• The BA degrees at IGNOU offer a wide variety of core disciplines in subjects like Economics, Sociology, and Public Administration with a lot of the course work overlapping with UPSC preparations.

• The exams for the coursework are also designed such that they benefit the student if they are appearing for other exams like UPSC.

• IGNOU is known for its well-founded courses that ensure the best interests of the student. Depending on if one plans to choose a distance learning or open course degree, one can choose to appear for UPSC.

BA degree from IGNOU:

• Obtaining a BA degree from the university depends upon if you are a part-time student at the institute or committed to full-time study. The former situation might be a little tough on the student.

• Students are continuously evaluated with assignments, marks from which are counted for the final result.

• Assignments carry a weightage of 30% of the total result. Students are barred from appearing for end term examinations if they miss an assignment.

• The major evaluation component is the term-end evaluation system which carries a total of 70% weightage. These exams are conducted twice a year.

• Students are expected to study from the course material provided and answer accordingly to the point. Most importantly, ensure that one is registered for the exam, failing which results are not declared.

In conclusion, you can definitely prepare for the UPSC CSE at the same time as your BA degree. While it is not very tough to clear the BA degree, a habit of regular study will definitely help one obtain it with a good result.

One of my friends is an alumnus of Dayanand Anglo-Vedic College (DAVC), who studied B.Sc. Here is his experience in brief. 

• The teaching approach of the faculty members is impressive.
• The admission in the B.A. program, based on merit and seat availability.
• The infrastructure of the college is also decent. 
• As a BA student, you will have the opportunities to prove yourself in academics and co-curricular activities. 
• The competitions, parties, etc. will make you more comfortable speaking in public. 
• The library is great and so is the overall environment on campus. 
• Doing BA from DAV college can be a great option if you are interested in the Civil Service examination. 

DAVC is an ordinary college, but it is an excellent institute for pursuing an undergraduate degree.