Archaeology

There is no specific cut-off. It depends on the people applying for the course. People with marks higher than you will be give the preference. So, if you are at 70 and someone is at 60, you will be given the first choice.

There are 60 seats for archaeology and the admission is merit-based.

Before the age of 30 years, it would be better to do EMI in archaeology, if you want it as a career. And yes, it needs a regular class, because if you are doing in correspondence, you are not going to get any knowledge about archaeology, because it's a study, where you need to be present and get to know about everything what you have been taught.

One person have to do his or her Bachelors in one of the given subject ancient history, archaeology, anthropology, culture and in religion, after completing graduation one can get admission in AIHC and A, ancient Indian history culture and archaeology. Or in AIC and A ancient Indian culture and archaeology from various universities.

You can opt any stream like medical/non-medical science, commerce or arts for senior secondary education. After intermediate level go ahead with arts or science. I don't think any school provides archeology or anthropology as a major or optional subject in intermediate. But if you'll choose commerce stream you can go with science for Bachelor's degree. In my opinion choosing arts stream with history as majors will help you to get deeper knowledge. It would be of great help for your career.

Typically, archaeology falls under the humanities domain. Hence, you should be studying subjects such as History, Geography, Sociology, etc., in class 11th and 12th. However, it is not mandatory to study these subjects only. You can easily study science or commerce, and still, study history/archaeology in your under-graduation. You will be able to specialize in archaeology only at the Masters/Post-Graduate level (at least in India).
Regards.

Hello Abhinav,
IGNOU has been established by an act of parliament and all its degrees are recognised by UGC and government. Hence based on the degree issued by IGNOU, one can definitely get job in government organisation including ASI.