Diploma in Travel and Tourism: Course Details, Colleges, Fees, Jobs & Salary in India

The travel and tourism industry’s growth fuels a demand for skilled professionals, making a Diploma in Travel and Tourism a promising career path. This diploma, lasting one to two years, requires a 10+2 or equivalent qualification with a minimum of 45% to 50%, depending on the institution. The curriculum equips students with essential knowledge and skills for roles in travel agencies, tour operations, and hospitality. 

To enroll in a Diploma in Travel and Tourism, applicants need a 10+2 or equivalent qualification with 45%-50% marks. The admission process involves submitting an application, followed by merit-based selection, counseling or interviews, and document verification with fee payment. Annual fees range from INR 50,000 to INR 1,00,000, varying by institution. 

The Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM), with campuses in Gwalior, Delhi, Bhubaneswar, Nellore, and Goa, is a leading government college for this course. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Diploma in Travel and Tourism, covering courses, colleges, fees, jobs, and salaries in India.

Diploma in Travel and Tourism: Overview

A Diploma in Travel and Tourism offers a comprehensive understanding of the tourism industry. Course duration ranges from 1 to 2 years, with average fees between INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000 annually, depending on the institution type (government or private). 

Eligibility requires a 10+2 or equivalent examination with 45% to 50% marks. Specializations include tourism management, travel agency operations, and destination management.

Diploma in Travel and Tourism Eligibility Criteria

A Diploma in Travel and Tourism in India is a popular entry-level program (typically 1-3 years) for careers in hospitality, tour operations, event management, and aviation services. Offered by government and private institutions (e.g., IITTM, IGNOU, LPU), these AICTE/UGC-approved courses focus on practical skills like destination management and customer service. Admissions are often merit-based on qualifying marks or through institute-specific entrances/interviews; no national exam like CUET is mandatory for most.

Diploma in Travel and Tourism: Admission Process in India

The admission process for a Diploma in Travel and Tourism in India involves these steps for eligible 10+2 graduates:

1. Application Submission: Complete the application form online or offline, ensuring accuracy.
2. Merit-Based Selection: Colleges select students based on 10+2 marks, often with a minimum percentage of 45% to 50%.
3. Counseling/Interview: Some colleges assess aptitude and interest through counseling or interviews.
4. Document Verification: Submit mark sheets, certificates, and identification proof.
5. Fee Payment: Pay the admission fee to secure your seat. Government college fees range from INR 50,000 to 1,00,000 annually, while private colleges range from INR 1,00,000 to 3,00,000 or more.
6. Course Commencement: Begin the one- to two-year diploma course.
7. Interaction with Faculty: Consult faculty members for academic and professional guidance.

The admission process is designed to be accessible, allowing students to pursue their interests in the travel and tourism field without entrance exams.

Entrance Exams for Diploma in Travel and Tourism in India

Admission to Diploma in Travel and Tourism programs in India is primarily merit-based on Class 10 or 12 performance, with no national or state-level standardized entrance exams specifically for this course. However, some private universities and institutes conduct their own entrance tests or accept scores from general university entrances like CUET (for affiliated programs). These exams assess basic aptitude, English proficiency, and tourism-related knowledge. 

Eligibility generally requires a Class 12 pass with 45-50% aggregate (relaxations for reserved categories), and exams are typically online or written. The table below lists key institution-specific entrances applicable to diploma programs, based on verified 2026 patterns from official sources (e.g., university websites, Shiksha, Careers360). Dates are tentative; confirm on respective portals.

Important Notes

• Tentative 2026 Dates: Applications often open in January-April, exams in May-June (e.g., LPUNEST: Jan-Mar applications, Apr-May exam).
• For government polytechnics offering similar diplomas, admission uses state CETs (e.g., JEECUP in UP, Delhi CET), but not tourism-specific.

Top Government Colleges in India Offering Diploma in Travel and Tourism

Government institutions in India offer Diploma in Travel and Tourism (typically 1-3 years after Class 10 or 12) through polytechnics, open universities, and specialized tourism bodies, approved by AICTE/UGC or state boards. These programs focus on tour operations, hospitality, destination management, and sustainable tourism, with low subsidised fees and practical training. 

Admissions are merit-based on qualifying marks or state-level entrances like Polytechnic CET, with reservations as per government norms. The table below lists top government colleges based on reputation and availability.

The Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM) primarily offers BBA/MBA in Tourism & Travel, not diplomas; however, affiliated bodies like DITTM provide short-term diploma options. Annual fees range from INR 3,000 to 20,000, making these accessible. 

Admission for 2026 typically opens in April-June via state portals or direct applications. For latest details, visit official sites like ignou.ac.in or respective state technical education boards.

Top Private Colleges in India Offering Diploma in Travel and Tourism

Private universities and institutes in India offer Diploma in Travel and Tourism (typically 1-3 years post-Class 12, or related variants like Tourism Management) with a focus on practical skills in tour operations, hospitality, aviation, and sustainable tourism. These UGC/AICTE-approved programs emphasize industry internships and placements in travel agencies, hotels, and airlines. Admissions are merit-based on Class 12 marks (45-50% aggregate) or through university entrances like LPUNEST, CUCET, or interviews, with scholarships for merit/reserved categories. 

Fees vary by institution and include tuition; additional costs may apply. The table below lists top private colleges based on reputation, rankings (NIRF/NAAC where applicable):

Diploma in Travel and Tourism Syllabus PDF

Diploma in Travel and Tourism Syllabus

Diploma in Travel and Tourism Subjects and Syllabus: Year-wise Breakdown

The Diploma in Travel and Tourism program is a 1-2 year course providing a comprehensive understanding of tourism principles and practices. The syllabus varies by institution but generally covers core subjects such as tourism principles, geography of tourism, communication skills, travel agency operations, and destination management. Electives may include foreign language, computer applications, ecotourism, and adventure tourism.

Diploma in Travel and Tourism Fee Structure: Government vs Private Colleges in India

The fee structure for a Diploma in Travel and Tourism differs significantly between government and private colleges. Government colleges offer more affordable options, with average fees from INR 50,000 to INR 1,00,000. Private colleges can range from INR 1,00,000 to INR 3,00,000 or more. Additional costs like hostel and exam fees may apply.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the minimum qualification required to pursue a Diploma in Travel and Tourism in India?

The minimum qualification required is 10+2 or equivalent, with a minimum percentage of 45% – 50% which varies by institution. There are no specific subjects required, as the focus is on general aptitude and interest in tourism.

Q2. What is the admission process for a Diploma in Travel and Tourism in India?

The admission process involves submitting an application form, either online or offline, and selection is typically based on merit, i.e., marks obtained in the qualifying examination. Some colleges may also conduct counseling sessions or personal interviews as part of the admission process.

Q3. What is the average fee structure for a Diploma in Travel and Tourism in Government and Private colleges in India?

The average fee for Government colleges is INR 50,000-1,00,000, while for Private colleges it is INR 1,00,000-3,00,000. The fees may vary depending on the institution and location.

Q4. Are entrance exams required for admission to a Diploma in Travel and Tourism course in India?

No, diploma courses in travel and tourism generally do not require entrance exams. Admission is typically based on merit, i.e., marks obtained in the qualifying examination.

Written by Abhijeet Chatterjee

Abhijeet Chatterjee is a professional Content and Copy specialist with over five years of experience in crafting compelling content around the Edtech domain. His portfolio includes notable work for companies such as PhysicsWallah, Roar Media, Jagran Josh, etc. Academically, Abhijeet holds a Master's in Mass Communication, where he was awarded a gold medal for his outstanding performance. He has also qualified for the UGC NET in Mass Communication, demonstrating his expertise and a deep understanding of the field. His academic foundation is built on a Bachelor's degree in English Literature. Beyond his professional work, Abhijeet is an avid writer and a cinephile. His personal interests include scriptwriting, film criticism, and reading novels.

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