OUSL Software Engineering Degree (BSE Hons) 2026/27: Eligibility, Fees & How to Apply

The Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) is now accepting applications for its OUSL Software Engineering degree, the Bachelor of Software Engineering Honours (BSE Hons), from 15 October 2026. The closing date is 7 November 2026 on OUSL’s programme page and 15 November 2026 on its application portal, so apply by 7 November to be safe. You do not need to come from the Physical Science or IT stream: OUSL says passes in any three G.C.E. A/L subjects (not counting General English or General Information Technology) are enough to apply, and you then sit a selection test. The degree runs in OUSL’s open and distance learning mode, so many students study while working.

OUSL Software Engineering Degree 2026/27: Key Facts

Who Can Apply

• A/L passes: passes in any three G.C.E. A/L subjects, at any number of sittings. General English and General Information Technology do not count towards the three.
• Any stream: OUSL states that Physical Science, Combined Mathematics or an IT subject is not required.
• Selection test: applicants must pass OUSL’s selection test. The 2026/27 test date had not been announced on the programme page when we checked.
• Lateral entry: holders of some diplomas may get lateral entry or exemptions. The rules are in the BSE Student Guidebook on the OUSL programme page.

How the Course Works

OUSL teaches in open and distance learning mode. According to OUSL’s BSE awareness material, assessment includes continuous assessment (assignments, mini projects, lab reports, presentations and viva), final examinations, industrial training and projects in later years. Some labs and assessments are on-site at OUSL centres on weekdays and weekends, so plan your travel to your nearest centre.

How to Apply Step by Step

1. From 15 October 2026, open the OUSL Online Application portal at apply.lmsousl.lk.
2. Find Bachelor of Software Engineering Honours in the list of available programmes.
3. Read the programme notice and the BSE Student Guidebook before you start.
4. Create your applicant account and fill in your personal details and G.C.E. A/L results exactly as they appear on your certificate.
5. Pay the application fee shown on the portal and keep the payment receipt.
6. Complete your application before 7 November 2026 as a precaution, because OUSL’s pages disagree on the closing date, confirm the date with OUSL, and save or print your confirmation.
7. Watch your email and the OUSL website for the selection test date and admission card.

Documents to Keep Ready

• National Identity Card (NIC)
• G.C.E. A/L results sheet or certificate (and O/L results if the portal asks for them)
• Working email address and mobile number
• Diploma certificates, if you are asking for lateral entry or exemptions
• A debit/credit card or other payment method accepted on the portal

BrightNook Tips

• Don’t wait for the last week. The portal can be slow near closing dates. Aim to submit in the first two weeks after 15 October.
• Arts and Commerce students can apply. If you thought software engineering was only for Maths students, this is one of the few state-university IT degrees that accepts any three A/L passes.
• Prepare for the selection test early. Revise basic mathematics and logical reasoning, and watch the BSE awareness videos on the OUSL programme page.
• Budget for the full course. LKR 660,000 is an approximate total over at least four years. Ask OUSL about the instalment plan before you register.
• Check your nearest centre. Practical sessions are on-site, so choose an OUSL regional or study centre you can reach regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply with Arts or Commerce A/L subjects?

Yes. OUSL says passes in any three A/L subjects (not counting General English or General Information Technology) are accepted, and Physical Science, Combined Mathematics or IT is not required. You must still pass the selection test.

Can I apply if I passed A/L in more than one sitting?

Yes. OUSL’s entry requirements allow the three passes at any number of sittings.

How much does the degree cost?

OUSL lists the course fee as approximately LKR 660,000, payable twice a year. Its FAQ says the course fee can be paid in two instalments: 60% at the start of the academic year and the balance at the start of semester 2. The application fee is LKR 750. The programme page also lists a registration fee of LKR 750, a facilities fee of LKR 2,500 and a library facilities fee of LKR 100, payable at the start of the academic year. The same page says course fees rise by 10% each year.

The page contradicts itself on the per-credit fee. Its finance section gives LKR 4,190 per credit and says you must pass 125 credits to graduate. Its FAQ gives LKR 3,000 per credit and says you must pass at least 130 credits. OUSL does not explain which is current or how the LKR 660,000 total is worked out, so treat the total as approximate and confirm the exact fee with the programme team (bseinfo@ousl.lk) before you pay.

Is OUSL a state university?

Yes. The Open University of Sri Lanka is a state university under the University Grants Commission. See our guide on how to check if a degree is recognised.

Official Sources

• OUSL – Bachelor of Software Engineering Honours programme page (checked 8 October 2026)
• OUSL Online Application portal
• UGC – OUSL BSE Hons degree page

BrightNook.lk is an independent education website and is not affiliated with The Open University of Sri Lanka. Always confirm details with the official OUSL notice before applying.