IGNOU, also known as Indira Gandhi National Open University, was set up in 1985. It is recognised by UGC, accredited with NAAC A++, and approved by AICTE and NCTE. IGNOU is the world’s largest open university and offers flexible study options for learners in India and abroad.
IGNOU ranked 1st in the Open University category by NIRF 2025. It is known for distance and online education, low-cost courses, printed and digital study material, and a large support network.
- Popular Courses: IGNOU’s popular options include MA Jyotish with total academic fees of INR 14,700.
- Other popular programs include MSc, BA, PG Diploma, and PhD.
- Admission Cycle: IGNOU admissions are held twice every year, in January and July.
- Admission Process: IGNOU gives admission through merit and entrance tests.
- Registration Fee: INR 300
- Entrance Exam Accepted: IGNOU holds its own entrance test for B.Sc Nursing, B.Ed, and PhD admission.
- Campus: IGNOU works through 21 Schools of Study, 67 Regional Centres, and 2,600+ Learner Support Centres.
- Student Base: IGNOU has more than 3 million learners worldwide.
- Placement: As per NIRF 2026 data, the UG 1-Year program recorded a median package of INR 2.8 LPA.
IGNOU Important Dates 2026
IGNOU follows January and July admission cycles. The upcoming events from the July 2026 cycle are listed below.
IGNOU July 2026 Admission Cycle
| Event | Date |
| July 2026 admission cycle classes commence | October 2026 (Tentative) |
| PhD admission classes commence | October 2026 (Tentative) |
Subject to revision. Kindly check with the official sources to confirm
Important Admission Points
- B.Ed Admission Process: IGNOU admits B.Ed students through its own entrance exam, followed by counselling and seat allotment.
- MBA Admission Process: MBA admission at IGNOU is based on merit score.
- PhD Admission Process: Students who have not qualified UGC NET/JRF may appear for the IGNOU PhD entrance test and then attend an interview.
- Application Fee Payment Mode: Students must pay program fees online through the official IGNOU Samarth admission portal. Offline payment is not available.
- Admission Deadline Strategy: IGNOU may extend admission deadlines, but students should apply before the first deadline to avoid server issues or delays.
- Term-End Examination (TEE) System: IGNOU holds exams twice a year, in June TEE and December TEE. Students can appear after meeting course completion and eligibility rules.
Who Should Choose IGNOU?
IGNOU suits learners who need recognised education with flexibility and lower fees. It serves students in India and abroad.
| Best Suited For | May Not Be Ideal For |
| People who want to upskill without leaving work | Students looking for a full-time campus life |
| Students preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, or State-level exams | Candidates expecting strong placement support |
| Learners who want affordable higher education | Students who need regular classroom teaching |
| Candidates who cannot easily access regular universities | Learners who prefer close faculty mentoring and fixed schedules |
IGNOU Courses & Fees 2026
IGNOU courses are offered with flexible learning and wide access across India. In 2026, full-course fees usually fall between INR 13,000 and INR 66,000, depending on the program.
| Course | Total Academic Fees | Importance |
| PhD | INR 16,800 - INR 34,650 | Useful for research scholars, teaching careers, and academic specialisation. |
| MA | INR 12,700 - INR 27,700 | Helpful for teaching, UPSC preparation, and research. |
| M.Sc | INR 17,700 - INR 60,700 | Supports advanced subject learning, research, and technical careers. |
| PG Diploma | INR 4,200 - INR 30,500 | Short skill-based study for faster career growth and industry learning. |
| BA | INR 15,100 - INR 28,300 | Good for government exams, teaching, and higher studies. |
| BCA | INR 50,500 | Career-focused option for IT, software development, coding, and computer applications. |
| MBA | INR 66,700 - INR 70,700 | Suited for management, leadership, business growth, and corporate careers. |
| Certificate | INR 2,200 - INR 7,300 | Quick upskilling in focused subjects for working professionals and beginners. |
| BA Hons | INR 16,600 | Subject specialisation with stronger academic and career scope than a general BA. |
| Diploma | INR 2,700 - INR 15,900 | Practical and job-focused learning for quicker entry into professional areas. |
Subject to revision. Kindly check with the official sources to confirm
IGNOU vs DU SOL: Courses & Fee Structure Comparison
IGNOU and DU SOL both offer traditional UG and PG courses. IGNOU has a wider worldwide reach, while DU SOL mainly serves Delhi-based learners.
| Course | IGNOU | DU SOL |
| BA / BA (Hons) | INR 8,400 - INR 12,600 | INR 9,990 - INR 12,990 |
| B.Com / B.Com (Hons) | INR 9,000 - INR 12,000 | INR 10,590 - INR 13,590 |
| MA (All Subjects) | INR 12,000 - INR 18,000 | INR 14,000 - INR 22,000 |
| M.Com | INR 15,000 - INR 18,600 | INR 15,000 - INR 18,000 |
| B.Sc | INR 15,900 - INR 43,800 | Not offered |
| MBA | INR 60,000 - INR 70,000 | Not offered |
| BCA | INR 48,000 | Not offered |
| Diploma / Certificate Courses | INR 500 - INR 25,000 | Very limited |
Subject to revision. Kindly check with the official sources to confirm
- IGNOU offers low-cost education compared to many regular universities.
- Fees may be paid semester-wise or year-wise, depending on the course.
IGNOU Admission 2026
IGNOU conducts admission twice a year. The January cycle begins in December, and the July cycle begins in June. Students can apply online through the official Samarth portal by paying a non-refundable application fee of INR 300.
- Foreign students living in India with a valid student visa may apply by paying international program fees. Courses with limited seats may not be open to international applicants.
IGNOU Admission Portal 2026
How to Apply for IGNOU Admission 2026?
- Visit the official IGNOU admission portal.
- Register with basic personal details.
- Choose the program and study mode.
- Fill in academic, category, and address details.
- Upload the required scanned documents.
- Pay the application or program fee online.
- Submit the form and keep the confirmation for later use.
Documents Required for IGNOU Admission 2026
Students must upload clear scanned copies of these documents during registration:
- Passport-size photograph
- Signature
- Proof of Date of Birth (10th certificate)
- Educational qualification certificates
- Category certificate, if applicable
- Aadhaar Card
Note: All documents should be original or self-attested and clearly scanned.
IGNOU B.Ed Admission 2026
IGNOU B.Ed is a 2-year NCTE-approved Bachelor of Education program offered in ODL mode. It is meant for students who want to teach at secondary and senior secondary levels. Admission is based on the entrance exam, and direct admission is not offered.
IGNOU B.Ed 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Students must meet these conditions to appear for the IGNOU B.Ed Entrance Test 2026:
- Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree (BA, B.Sc, B.Com) or Master’s degree with at least 50% aggregate marks.
- Relaxation: SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates get 5% relaxation, so 45% marks are required.
- Engineering/Technology Graduates: B.Tech/B.E. graduates with 55% marks in Science and Mathematics subjects may be eligible in some cases, as per the official notification.
Note: Candidates with a 2-year Diploma in Elementary Education or a 4-year Bachelor of Elementary Education should check the prospectus for specific eligibility.
IGNOU B.Ed Entrance Exam 2026: Pattern & Syllabus Overview
The entrance test is held offline across India and usually covers the following:
- Syllabus: General English Comprehension, Logical and Analytical Reasoning, General Awareness, Teaching-Learning and School, and Subject Competence.
- Duration: 2 hours.
- Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
- Medium: English and Hindi.
Note: The detailed syllabus is given in the official e-Prospectus.
IGNOU B.Ed Entrance Test Result
IGNOU has released the B.Ed entrance test result.
How to download?
- Visit the official result portal @ studentservices.ignou.ac.in/bed_result/
- Click on the B.Ed entrance test result link.
- Enter your enrollment number.
- Check the result and scorecard shown on the screen.
- Download it and take a printout for later use.
Note: IGNOU will issue a regional centre-wise merit list for qualified students. Counselling will take place at the allotted study centre.
IGNOU B.Sc Nursing Admission 2026
B.Sc Nursing at IGNOU is offered through distance education and is approved by the Indian Nursing Council (INC). The minimum course duration is 3 years.
Eligibility
- The candidate must be a Registered Nurse and Registered Midwife (RNRM).
- The candidate must have 10+2 and a 3-year GNM diploma.
- At least 2 years of work experience after RNRM registration is required.
- Male nurses who did not study midwifery in GNM must have an INC-recognised nursing certificate course of 6-9 months in place of midwifery.
- Admission is generally done through the PB B.Sc entrance examination conducted by IGNOU.
IGNOU BSCN (PB) Entrance Test
The IGNOU Post Basic B.Sc Nursing Entrance Test is held for admission to the B.Sc Nursing program. The course combines flexible distance learning with practical training for working nursing professionals.
Exam Pattern
- Mode: Offline (OMR-based)
- Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Questions: 120 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Total Marks: 120
Note: There is no negative marking in the exam.
How to download the BSCN (PB) Result?
IGNOU has released the B.Sc Nursing entrance test result. Students can download it through these steps:
- Visit the official result portal @ studentservices.ignou.ac.in/BSCN_RESULT
- Click on the B.Sc Nursing entrance test result link.
- Enter your enrollment number.
- View the result and scorecard on the screen.
- Download it and keep a printout for later use.
Note: IGNOU will publish a regional centre-wise merit list for qualified students. Counselling will be held at the assigned study centre.
IGNOU Re-Registration 2026
Indira Gandhi National Open University asks existing students to complete re-registration when they move to the next semester or academic year. This process is only for already enrolled students. New applicants must use the fresh admission portal.
Required Details & Documents for IGNOU Re-Registration 2026
Students should keep these details ready before starting:
- Enrollment Number, which is the 10-digit number on the ID card or previous receipt.
- Program Code, such as BAG or MSO.
- Course or subject choices for the next semester.
- Fee payment option: Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI. Cash is not accepted.
Pro Tip: Students who forget login details can use recovery through the IGNOU Student Portal.
How to Do IGNOU Re-Registration 2026 Online?
- Visit Portal: Open the IGNOU re-registration portal.
- Login: Enter the Enrollment Number as username and the password received through SMS/email.
- Select Session: Choose the July 2026 or January 2026 semester.
- Choose Courses: Select subjects for the next term, within the credit rules.
- Pay Fees: Use the online payment gateway and save the receipt.
- Submit & Download: Submit the form and download the confirmation PDF.
Common Issues?
- Password reset: Use the "Forgot Password" link.
- Payment failed: Try a different browser or UPI option.
IGNOU Ranking 2026
IGNOU has received rankings in Overall and Open University categories. Its national position highlights its reach in open and distance education.
| Ranked By | Category | Ranking 2026 |
| IIRF | Overall | 44 |
| Outlook | Overall | 1 |
IGNOU Study Material 2026
Indira Gandhi National Open University gives study material in printed and digital formats. The content is made for self-study, so distance and online learners can study at their own speed.
Note: Students choosing digital study material get a 15% fee concession.
Which to Choose: Printed vs Digital?
IGNOU provides two formats for UG, PG, and Diploma programs:
| Feature | Printed Books | Digital (eGyankosh) |
| Delivery | Post / Speed Post to address | Instant download |
| Cost | Full program fee | 15% discount |
| Access | Physical copy | App + Website |
| Languages | English + Regional (Hindi, etc.) |
| Status 2026 | Dispatched in 30 days | Always available |
IGNOU Digital Learning Ecosystem
IGNOU uses digital platforms to help students access study material, attend virtual classes, and follow academic progress while studying from India or abroad.
IGNOU Study Methodology 2026
IGNOU’s teaching model uses both offline and online resources:
- Self-Instructional Material (SIM): Students receive printed books and/or digital PDFs. The material covers the full syllabus with examples and exercises and is made for self-study.
- Online Learning Resources: Students can use e-learning modules, recorded lectures, and online tutorials through IGNOU digital platforms such as eGyanKosh and mobile apps.
- Personal Contact Programmes (PCP): Optional face-to-face sessions at study centres help students clear doubts and meet faculty. These are available for selected programs.
- Assignments & Projects: Assignments and project work are part of continuous evaluation. Assignments carry 30% weightage in final marks and are mandatory for Term-End Exam eligibility.
IGNOU Term-End Examination 2026
IGNOU Term-End Examinations (TEE) are usually held twice a year, in June and December, at more than 600 centres in India and abroad. Exams are offline, pen-and-paper based. Students must register, submit assignments, and download the admit card before appearing.
Important Rules for IGNOU Exams
- Students must submit assignments before TEE.
- They must score the minimum qualifying marks in assignments.
- Exam form submission is required.
- Missed deadlines can delay exam eligibility.
IGNOU Term End Examination Hall Ticket
The hall ticket for the IGNOU June Term End Examination has been published. Students can download it from ignou.samarth.edu.in/index.php/site.
Exam Timing
- Morning Shift: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
- Evening Shift: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Important Instructions
- Carry your identity card and hall ticket to the examination hall.
- Reach the exam centre on time.
Indira Gandhi National Open University requires students to submit pending assignments at their study centre before filling the exam form. Students who do not meet eligibility rules or miss assignment submission cannot get the hall ticket.
Students must pay an exam fee of INR 200 per course through Net Banking, Debit Card, or Credit Card. After payment, they should wait for acknowledgement status. Updates may take up to 72 hours if there is a delay.
- Assignment submission is compulsory before the exam form.
- Exam fee is INR 200 per course.
- Payment is online only.
- Hall ticket is issued only after eligibility verification.
- Status update may take up to 72 hours.
IGNOU Result 2026
IGNOU declares results within 45 days after June and December Term-End Examinations. The result includes enrollment number, course name, course code, marks obtained, maximum marks, and grades. IGNOU also releases grade cards, entrance exam results, and on-demand exam results.
How to Check IGNOU Result 2026?
- Visit the official IGNOU website.
- Go to the Results section.
- Open the relevant result link.
- Enter your enrollment number.
- Submit the details to view the result.
- Download the grade card.
IGNOU Placement 2026
IGNOU placement report for 2026 has not been released. As per NIRF 2026 data, the UG 1-Year program recorded a median package of INR 2.8 LPA, and the UG 3-Year program recorded INR 2.58 LPA.
| Particulars | Details |
| Total Number of Students | 1.5 Lakhs |
| Total Number of Students Placed | 81,801 |
| Median Package UG 1-Year | INR 2.85 LPA |
| Median Package UG 3-Year | INR 2.58 LPA |
| Median Package PG 1-Year | INR 2.45 LPA |
| Median Package PG 1-Year | INR 2.67 LPA |
| Top Recruiters | Car Dekho, Air India SATS, and APTARA |
IGNOU Regional Centres
IGNOU Regional Centres handle academic, administrative, and student support services in their areas. They help with counselling, study material distribution, exam work, and student queries.
Some major IGNOU Regional Centres and their codes are listed below:
| Regional Center | Code |
| Hyderabad | 01 |
| Kolkata | 28 |
| Bangalore | 13 |
| Delhi-1 | 07 |
| Delhi-2 | 29 |
| Chennai | 25 |
| Mumbai | 49 |
| Lucknow | 27 |
| Patna | 05 |
| Pune | 16 |
| Agartala | 26 |
| Shillong | 18 |
IGNOU Study Centres
Study Centres work under Regional Centres at different locations. They offer academic support such as:
- Academic counselling sessions
- Tutorials and practical classes
- Library and learning resources
- Assignment submission facilities
Study Centres differ by program availability and student capacity. IGNOU study centres are spread worldwide, and students living in foreign countries can also apply to IGNOU.
IGNOU vs DU SOL vs Amity Online
The right choice among IGNOU, Delhi University School of Open Learning, and Amity University Online depends on learning style, budget, and career aims. IGNOU is strong for affordability and flexibility, DU SOL suits students who want a Delhi University curriculum, and Amity University Online offers a more premium digital learning experience.
| Criteria | IGNOU | DU SOL | Amity University Online |
| Popular Courses | BA, B.Com, BCA, MA | BA, B.Com, BMS | BBA, MBA, Data Science |
| MBA Program Fees | INR 66,700 - INR 70,700 | INR 1.1 Lakhs | INR 2.25 Lakhs - INR 3.39 Lakhs |
| Study Material | Printed + Digital | Printed + Digital | Fully digital + interactive |
| Examination Mode | Offline | Offline | Online |
| International Students | Limited programs | Limited programs | Widely accepted |
| Student Support | Basic online support | Limited support | 24/7 support + career services |
| Examination Pattern | Held twice a year through offline mode | Held annually / semester-wise through offline mode | Held annually / semester-wise through online mode |
| Mode of Study | ODL + Online | ODL | Fully Online |
| Regional / Study Centres | Wide network of Regional Centres in India and abroad for academic counselling and exam coordination. | Mainly in Delhi with local academic support. | A wide network of study centres across India through all branches of Amity University. |
- IGNOU: Best for students who want affordable and flexible distance learning with a strong national network.
- DU-SOL: Offers Delhi University education but has less flexibility than IGNOU and Amity.
- Amity University Online: Offers a more modern tech-based learning setup with stronger placement support, but it costs more.
Which is Better?
Among distance education options:
- Amity University Online usually gives the most structured placement support through career services, job portals, and industry links. Actual placements still depend on student profile, skills, and effort.
- DU SOL has the Delhi University name and alumni network, which may help with networking and career options, though formal placement drives are uncommon.
- IGNOU gives very limited placement assistance. Most students depend on skills, internships, or personal networks for jobs.
No distance education program can guarantee placements. Student effort, preparation, and initiative play a major role.
Pros & Cons of IGNOU
| Pros | Cons |
| Lower tuition fees than most public and private universities | Limited centralised placement support; many students depend on off-campus options |
| Flexible study schedule through distance and online learning | Needs strong self-discipline because external academic pressure is limited |
| Recognised by UGC-DEB for distance education | Administrative work can be slow |
| Wide range of UG, PG, diploma, and certificate programs | Very little campus life and peer interaction compared with regular universities |
| Regional and study centre network across India and some international locations | Support quality may differ across regional and study centres |
| Study material is available in print and through platforms like eGyankosh and SWAYAM | Communication and response times are often slower than regular institutions |
| Useful for candidates preparing for exams such as UPSC and SSC because of the flexible schedule | Some programs may offer limited industry exposure or internships |
| Printed and digital learning resources are included in most programs | Practical components such as labs and fieldwork may depend on location and availability |
Note: The pros and cons above are based on student feedback, institutional data, and public information. Individual experiences can change by program and regional study centre.
IGNOU FAQs
Ques. What is the process for submitting IGNOU assignments?
Ans. Assignments carry 30% of the total marks, so students must submit them before the deadline at their assigned study centre. They should follow the guidelines issued by IGNOU. Before writing, students need to read the assignment questions and the notice given with them because IGNOU explains the format, answer paper type, and file requirements there.
Ques. Can IGNOU marks be sent for revaluation?
Ans. Yes. Students who are unhappy with their marks can use the IGNOU student service portal to apply for revaluation. The portal explains how to submit the answer paper for checking again.
Ques. What should a student do after missing an IGNOU TEE exam?
Ans. IGNOU holds term-end exams in December for the January session and in June for the July session. If a student misses one TEE, they can fill the exam form for the next exam. For example, a student who misses December can apply for the June exam.
Ques. How can a working student manage several IGNOU TEE papers?
Ans. IGNOU gives an extra 2 years to finish a program. For a 3-year program, students get 2 additional years. Working learners can divide papers between December and June exams so that the course load becomes easier to manage.
Ques. How do students download IGNOU study material from eGyanKosh?
Ans. Students can download IGNOU study material from eGyanKosh by following these steps:
- Open the official eGyanKosh website.
- Select “IGNOU Self Learning Material (SLM)” or search directly.
- Browse by school and choose the program.
- Select the course code.
- Download the required blocks or units as PDF files.
- Create a free account for easier access and download tracking.
Ques. Is IGNOU study material available through any other platform?
Ans. Yes. Students can also use the IGNOU e-Content app. It is available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store and allows mobile access to study material.
Ques. How can students track IGNOU printed study material dispatch?
Ans. Students can check study material dispatch status through these steps:
- Visit the official IGNOU website.
- Open the “Student Zone.”
- Click on “Study Material Status.”
- Enter the enrollment number and program code.
- Check dispatch status, expected delivery date, and remarks.
- Printed material reaches students after 30-60 days from admission confirmation.
Ques. Are IGNOU exams difficult?
Ans. IGNOU exams can be managed with regular preparation. Students should study the official material, write their own assignments, and practise previous year question papers. Detailed and well-structured answers help. The minimum mark is usually 35/100. Career success also depends on building skills along with completing the degree.
Ques. Can students miss PCP classes at IGNOU?
Ans. Yes, students may skip IGNOU PCP classes and take exams in a later session without formally informing anyone. They still need to submit assignments and pay exam fees again during re-registration. Practical classes require compulsory attendance. Skipping PCPs does not increase the total program duration, so students should check Regional Centre rules and use eGyankosh for preparation.