1. To identify the educational needs of the learners who are generally not catered to by the formal system of school education
2. To provide opportunities for school education up to pre-degree level through open and distance learning (ODL) mode.
3. To identify and promote standards of learning in open and distance learning system.

The A.P State Open School shall provide ample access to sustainable learner-centric quality school education, skill upgradation and training to learners by using innovative technologies and methodologies of Open and Distance Learning

APOSS will provide opportunities for continuing education to those who have missed opportunities to complete school and development education.

Government of Andhra Pradesh revamped the Open School System in the year 2008 and started Open Basic Education Programme of A, B and C levels equivalent to III, V and VIII classes of formal system apart from SSC (Secondary) programme to the 14+ age group learners in Open and Distance Learning mode. The Intermediate programme was started in the year 2010 under Open and Distance Learning mode to the SSC passed learners of 15+ age. The Pass Certificates issued by APOSS are eligible for Higher Education and Employment.

The Chief Secretary, Government of Andhra Pradesh functions as Chairman, the Secretary to Government, Education Department shall act as Vice Chairman, the Director, APOSS is the Member Secretary at State level while the District Collector functions as Chairman and the District Educational Officer acts as Member Secretary at District Level to the Open School State and District Executive Boards. The APOSS carries its programmes through a network of study centres (AI centres) identified in Govt./Local Body/Recognized High Schools and Junior Colleges. The OBE programme of Level ‘A’ & ‘B’ shall be carried partnering with Department of Adult Education, Government of Andhra Pradesh.