Manav Rachna Centre for Distance and Online Education Faridabad MCA Artificial Intelligence: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Faridabad, HaryanaDistance EducationEstd 1997NAAC Grade A++
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Collegedunia Team

Content Curator | Updated 3+ months ago

The MCA in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science at Manav Rachna Centre for Distance and Online Education (MRCDE), Faridabad, is a 2-year (4-semester) UGC and AICTE approved online postgraduate programme offered through Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies (MRIIRS). With Microsoft as the primary knowledge partner, the programme provides advanced training in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Machine Learning, Big Data Analytics, Python, Java, Data Mining, and core computer applications. With a total fee of Rs. 1,30,000 (or Rs. 1,20,000 as a lumpsum), it is one of the most affordable AI-focused MCA programmes from a NAAC A++ accredited institution. Live classes are held on Saturdays and Sundays, making it ideal for working IT professionals. No entrance exam is required; admission is merit-based.

Admissions for the July 2026 batch are currently open. The MRO QUEST 2026 scholarship test is scheduled for 24 May 2026, offering up to 100% tuition fee waiver. The programme is expected to commence in July 2026.

Key Points

  • The programme is UGC and AICTE approved, holding equal academic value to an on-campus MCA degree.
  • Microsoft is the primary knowledge partner, providing digital components, industry-based curriculum, and Microsoft certification opportunities.
  • The curriculum spans 80 credits across 4 semesters, covering core MCA subjects in Semesters 1 and 2 and AI/Data Science-specific subjects such as Introduction to Artificial Intelligence, Big Data Analytics, and Data Mining and Warehousing in Semesters 2 and 3.
  • Students get an opportunity to earn a Microsoft certification as part of the programme.
  • Assessment includes internal evaluation (30%) and external end-semester exams (70%) conducted via online proctored format.
  • The programme includes Vocational Training/Project in Semester 2 and a Major Project in Semester 4 for hands-on, real-world learning.
  • The degree is recognised by WES-Canada and WASC-USA for international career opportunities.

MRCDE MCA Fees

Payment Options

Payment OptionAmount (Rs.)
Per Semester₹35,000
Per Year₹65,000
Total Fees (Annual Plan, 2 years)₹1,30,000
Total Fees (Lumpsum - Save Rs. 10,000)₹1,20,000
  • No hostel facility is applicable as this is a fully online programme.
  • EMI options are available: 24 months at Rs. 5,000/month, 18 months at Rs. 6,667/month, and 12 months at Rs. 10,000/month.
  • International students: Per semester fee is $500; annual fee is $1,000; total under annual plan is $2,000; lumpsum is $1,900.
  • A registration/application fee is applicable at the time of application; candidates are advised to check the current amount on the official portal.
  • Fee can be paid via Net Banking, Credit/Debit Card, NEFT, RTGS, or UPI.

MRCDE MCA Admission 2026

Admission Dates - July 2026 Session

EventDate
Admissions Open (July 2026 Session)April 2026 (Ongoing)
Last Date to Apply (July 2026 Session)10 May 2026
MRO QUEST 2026 Scholarship Test24 May 2026 (11:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
MRO QUEST 2026 Results Declaration26 May 2026 (6:00 PM)
Programme Commencement (July 2026 Session)July 2026

Exam Dates

Exam Dates
No mandatory entrance exam is required for this programme. The MRO QUEST 2026 is an optional scholarship test (not an admission requirement) for candidates seeking tuition fee waivers.
  • No entrance exam is required for admission.
  • Admission is merit-based on qualifying examination marks and is on a first-come, first-served basis.

The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Candidates must have passed BCA / Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science Engineering or equivalent degree from a recognised university.
  • OR candidates must have passed B.Sc. / B.Com. / B.A. with Mathematics at 10+2 level or at Graduation level (with additional bridge courses as per university norms).
  • International students must obtain an equivalence certificate from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).

Admission Process

  • Visit the official admission portal: apply.manavrachnaonline.com and register online.
  • Fill in the application form with accurate personal and academic details and select MCA (Artificial Intelligence and Data Science) as the desired programme.
  • Upload required documents: graduation mark sheets, address proof, and Aadhaar card (for Indian nationals) / Passport (for international students).
  • Pay the application/registration fee online.
  • Receive the Admission Offer Letter upon verification of eligibility.
  • Pay the first semester/year fee within one week of receiving the Admission Offer Letter.
  • Complete document verification and enrolment to receive the Provisional Admission Letter and LMS access.

MRCDE MCA Scholarships 2026

Scholarship Details

ScholarshipEligibilityBenefit
MRO QUEST 2026 - Score 90% and aboveAppear in MRO QUEST 2026 scholarship test (24 May 2026)100% Tuition Fee Waiver
MRO QUEST 2026 - Score 80% to 89%Appear in MRO QUEST 2026 scholarship test (24 May 2026)50% Tuition Fee Waiver
MRO QUEST 2026 - Score 60% to 79%Appear in MRO QUEST 2026 scholarship test (24 May 2026)30% Tuition Fee Waiver
Merit-based (Qualifying Exam) - 85% and abovePG level programme, based on qualifying exam marks100% Tuition Fee Waiver
Merit-based (Qualifying Exam) - 80% to 84.99%PG level programme, based on qualifying exam marks50% Tuition Fee Waiver
Merit-based (Qualifying Exam) - 75% to 79.99%PG level programme, based on qualifying exam marks25% Tuition Fee Waiver
Merit-based (Qualifying Exam) - 70% to 74.99%PG level programme, based on qualifying exam marks10% Tuition Fee Waiver
Lumpsum Payment DiscountPay total fee in one lumpsumSave Rs. 10,000 (Total: Rs. 1,20,000 instead of Rs. 1,30,000)
  • MRO QUEST 2026 is an online AI-proctored scholarship test of 60 minutes with 90 MCQs (no negative marking), conducted on 24 May 2026 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
  • Results declared on 26 May 2026 at 6:00 PM.
  • Scholarships under MRO QUEST are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis based on performance.
  • Merit-based scholarships are one-time benefits offered at the time of admission only.
  • Total scholarships/freeships under all categories combined are limited to a maximum of 20% of the sanctioned intake.
  • Continuation of scholarship in subsequent semesters requires maintaining a minimum SGPA of 7.5 and 85% attendance without any backlog.

Table of Contents

MRCDE MCA FAQs

Ques. Is the MCA in AI and Data Science from Manav Rachna Online equivalent to a regular MCA degree? Will employers accept it?

Ans. Yes, the online MCA in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science from Manav Rachna Online is fully equivalent to a regular on-campus MCA degree. It is approved by both UGC and AICTE, and the degree certificate issued does not distinguish between online and on-campus modes. The programme is also recognised internationally by WES-Canada and WASC-USA. For most private sector IT employers, the UGC and AICTE approval is the key criterion, and this degree meets that requirement. However, for government jobs that specifically require a regular/full-time degree, candidates should verify the specific job notification requirements.

Ques. What is the eligibility for this MCA programme? Can a B.Com or B.A. graduate apply?

Ans. Yes, B.Com and B.A. graduates can apply for this MCA programme, provided they have studied Mathematics at the 10+2 level or at the graduation level. The eligibility criteria are: BCA / B.Sc. CS / B.Tech graduates can apply directly. B.Sc. / B.Com. / B.A. graduates with Mathematics at 10+2 or graduation level can also apply, but may need to complete additional bridge courses as per university norms. This broad eligibility makes the programme accessible to students from diverse academic backgrounds who want to transition into AI and data science careers.

Ques. What is the role of Microsoft as a knowledge partner, and what certification will I get?

Ans. Microsoft is the primary knowledge partner for the MCA programme at Manav Rachna Online. Microsoft provides digital components, industry-based curriculum inputs, and certification resources. Students get an opportunity to earn a Microsoft certification as part of the programme, which is a globally recognised credential. The specific Microsoft certification available may include Azure Fundamentals, AI Fundamentals, or Data Fundamentals, depending on the current curriculum. These certifications are highly valued by IT employers and can significantly enhance your job prospects in AI, cloud computing, and data science roles.

Ques. How does the MCA in AI and Data Science compare to a regular MCA in terms of curriculum depth?

Ans. The MCA in AI and Data Science at Manav Rachna Online covers the same core MCA subjects (Data Structures, Java, Python, Software Engineering, Operations Research) as a general MCA, but with a stronger focus on AI and data-related subjects. Specialisation subjects include Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (Semester 2), Big Data Analytics (Semester 3), and Data Mining and Warehousing (Semester 3). The programme also covers Advanced Java and .NET in Semester 4. This makes it more industry-aligned for AI and data science roles compared to a general MCA, while still providing a strong foundation in computer applications.

Ques. What career opportunities are available after completing this MCA in AI and Data Science?

Ans. After completing this programme, you can target roles such as Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, AI Developer, Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Software Developer, and IT Product Manager. The AI and data science field is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, with companies across technology, BFSI, healthcare, e-commerce, and manufacturing actively hiring AI professionals. Entry-level salaries for AI/ML roles typically range from Rs. 5 to 10 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The Microsoft certification obtained during the programme further strengthens your profile for these roles.

Ques. Can I pursue this MCA while working a full-time IT job? How manageable is the workload?

Ans. Yes, the programme is specifically designed for working IT professionals. Live classes are held only on Saturdays and Sundays, and all sessions are recorded and available on the LMS for 24x7 access. The 2-year duration with 4 semesters is structured to be manageable alongside a full-time job. The online proctored exam format means you do not need to take leave from work for exams. The workload includes weekly assignments, a vocational training/project in Semester 2, and a major project in Semester 4. Students who are already working in IT roles often find the curriculum directly applicable to their current work, making the learning more practical and less burdensome.

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