Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) conducts admission twice a year, in January and July sessions, for more than 300 UG, PG, Diploma, Certificate, and PhD programs through distance and online modes. Admission for the July 2026 session is currently open, with the last date to apply being July 15, 2026. Over 5 lakh students enroll at IGNOU annually, making it one of the most preferred universities for distance education in India.
Admission is merit-based for most programs. IGNOU conducts its own entrance exam for B.Sc Nursing, B.Ed, and PhD programs. Applications are submitted online through the Samarth portal with a registration fee of INR 300 (may vary for some programs). All applicants must create a DEB ID before applying. IGNOU is also the first open university to launch the M.Sc. Climate Change program, open for applications until July 15, 2026.
IGNOU Important Dates 2026
The tables below list the key admission and re-registration dates for the July 2026 session, along with the B.Ed entrance exam schedule.
IGNOU July 2026 Session Dates
| Event |
Admission Date |
Re-Registration Date |
| Classes Commence |
October 2026 (Tentative) |
July 2026 (Tentative) |
Subject to revision. Kindly check with the official sources to confirm.
IGNOU Admission 2026
IGNOU offers admission to UG, PG, Diploma, Certificate, and PhD programs through online and offline modes. Most programs follow merit-based admission, while B.Ed and PhD require qualifying entrance exams. All applicants must apply through the official Samarth portal and must create a DEB ID before filling the admission form.
How to Apply for IGNOU Admission 2026
| Step |
Description |
| Online Registration |
Visit the IGNOU admission portal and register using a valid email ID and mobile number. |
| Program Selection |
Choose the desired course and verify the eligibility criteria and program code. |
| Fill the Application Form |
Enter personal, academic, and contact details accurately. |
| Upload Documents |
Upload scanned copies of photograph, signature, and academic certificates. |
| Pay the Application Fee |
Pay the non-refundable registration fee through online payment methods. |
| Review and Submit |
Verify all details before submitting the form. |
| Download Confirmation |
Save and print the application confirmation receipt for future reference. |
| Track Admission Status |
Monitor your admission status via the official portal using your enrollment or control number. |
How to Create a DEB ID
A DEB ID (Distance Education Bureau ID) is mandatory for all students enrolling in ODL programs at IGNOU. It is used to verify and track student enrollment. Follow these steps to create your DEB ID:
- Create an ABC ID (APAAR ID) through the Academic Bank of Credits portal if you do not already have one.
- Visit the official DEB ID Portal and enter your ABC ID.
- Enter your personal details such as name, mobile number, and email ID. These must match the details used while creating the ABC ID.
- Submit the form and complete OTP verification if prompted.
- Your DEB ID will be generated instantly. Save it for future use.
- Enter the generated DEB ID while filling out the IGNOU admission form.
Documents Required for IGNOU Admission 2026
Candidates must upload scanned copies of the following documents during the online application process:
- Passport-size photograph
- Scanned signature
- 10th and 12th marksheets
- Graduation/PG marksheet (if applicable)
- Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/PwD, if applicable)
- Age proof (birth certificate or 10th certificate)
- Experience certificate (if required for the program)
- Aadhaar Card or valid ID proof
IGNOU Admission Status 2026
After submitting the application, candidates can track their IGNOU admission status online. Confirmation typically takes 7 to 15 days, though in some cases it may take up to 30 to 60 days. Once confirmed, candidates receive notifications via email and SMS on their registered mobile number.
To check your admission status:
- Visit the official IGNOU admission status portal.
- Enter your Enrollment Number, Control Number, or Programme Code.
- Complete the captcha verification and click "Submit".
- Select "Know Your Status" to view your admission details.
Once your admission is confirmed, you will receive your enrollment number and login details, access to study material (printed or digital), and guidance from your Regional or Study Centre. You can also access content via IGNOU e-learning platforms and check assignment schedules, academic calendars, and exam updates.
Note: If your admission status is delayed, contact your regional centre or wait for official updates, as verification timelines may vary by course.
IGNOU B.Ed Admission 2026
IGNOU offers a 2-year B.Ed program through ODL mode, designed to train aspiring teachers for secondary and senior secondary levels. Admission is entrance-based, and candidates must qualify the national-level IGNOU B.Ed Entrance Exam to secure a seat. Direct admission is not allowed.
Eligibility for IGNOU B.Ed Admission 2026
- Bachelor's (BA/B.Sc/B.Com) or Master's degree with a minimum of 50% marks
- 5% relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates
- Engineering or Technology graduates may also be eligible as per the official notification
- No age limit for applying
IGNOU B.Ed Entrance Exam 2026
The B.Ed entrance exam is conducted at the national level by IGNOU. It includes sections on Reasoning Ability, Teaching-Learning Aptitude, and General Awareness. The admit card is released a few weeks before the exam, and the answer key and result are published after the exam.
Seats are limited at each study centre, and the program is highly competitive due to nationwide applicants. IGNOU B.Ed is a recognized teaching qualification and is valid for government teaching jobs as it is approved by the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE). The program offers 50 seats per study centre, adding up to nearly 50,000 seats across India.
To check the B.Ed entrance exam result, visit the official IGNOU student services portal, click on the B.Ed entrance test result link, enter your enrollment number, and download the scorecard. A centre-wise merit list is released after results, and counselling is held at the designated study centre. Candidates must carry all documents along with the B.Ed entrance test scorecard during counselling.
IGNOU M.Sc. Climate Change Programme 2026
IGNOU has introduced the M.Sc. Climate Change program for the July 2026 admission cycle, making it the first open university in India to launch this program. It is designed to help students understand climate change challenges, sustainability issues, environmental policies, and climate adaptation strategies. The program is offered through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode.
- Eligibility: Bachelor's degree from a recognized university
- Application Deadline: July 15, 2026
- Suitable for graduates, working professionals, environmental practitioners, researchers, and sustainability enthusiasts
- Flexible distance learning format with an industry-relevant and affordable curriculum
IGNOU Courses 2026
IGNOU offers a wide range of UG, PG, Diploma, and professional courses across multiple disciplines. Most programs follow merit-based admission with flexible eligibility criteria and affordable fees. Select programs such as B.Ed and PhD require entrance exams.
Merit-Based Courses
| Course |
Eligibility |
Notes |
| BA |
10+2 or equivalent |
Multiple specializations; flexible study pace |
| B.Com |
10+2 from a recognized board |
Focus on commerce, accounting, and finance |
| BBA |
10+2 or equivalent |
Covers management and business skills |
| BCA |
10+2 or equivalent |
Programming and software development |
| B.Sc |
10+2 with Science (PCM) |
Specializations in Physics, Chemistry, Maths |
| BSW |
10+2 or equivalent |
Focus on social work and community service |
| BLIS |
Bachelor's with 50% or relevant diploma/experience |
Library and information science |
| MA |
Bachelor's degree |
Humanities and social science specializations |
| MBA |
Graduation with 50% (45% for reserved categories) |
Management, marketing, finance |
| M.Com |
Bachelor's in Commerce or related field |
Advanced accounting and finance |
| M.Sc |
B.Sc in relevant subject |
Science and technology specializations |
| MCA |
Any UG + Maths at 10+2 or UG level |
Software and database management |
| M.Ed |
B.Ed with 55% + 2 years teaching experience |
Advanced teaching roles |
Entrance-Based Courses
| Course |
Eligibility |
Entrance Exam |
| B.Ed |
UG/PG with 50% or B.Tech with 55% |
IGNOU B.Ed Entrance Test |
| PhD |
Master's or M.Phil in a relevant field |
IGNOU PhD Entrance Test / UGC NET / CSIR NET |
IGNOU Fees and Refund Policy 2026
IGNOU charges a one-time non-refundable registration fee of INR 200 for all applicants. After successful registration, candidates must pay the program fee (semester or year-wise) to confirm admission. IGNOU follows a time-based refund policy as shown below.
| Condition of Cancellation |
Refund Amount |
| Before the last date of admission |
100% refund (excluding registration fee) |
| Within 15 days after the last date |
INR 500 deducted from the admission fee |
| Within 30 days after the last date |
INR 1,000 deducted from the admission fee |
| After 30 days of the last date |
No refund |
Note: Students should cancel admission early if required, as deductions increase over time and no refund is issued after 30 days of the last admission date.
IGNOU Re-Registration 2026
Re-registration is mandatory for existing IGNOU students who wish to continue into the next semester or academic cycle. It applies to most UG and PG courses that follow a semester-wise or year-wise structure. The last date for re-registration for the July 2026 session is June 30, 2026.
Re-registration is done online only through the official IGNOU re-registration portal (onlinerr.ignou.ac.in). The re-registration windows are:
- January Session: October to December
- July Session: April to June
Eligibility for Re-Registration
- Must have completed the previous semester or year.
- All pending course or program fees must be cleared.
- Required assignments or projects must have been submitted.
- Students with a gap in studies should consult their regional centre before re-registering.
How to Apply for IGNOU Re-Registration 2026
- Visit the official IGNOU re-registration portal at onlinerr.ignou.ac.in.
- Log in using your enrollment number and password.
- Select your program and subjects for the next session.
- Fill out the re-registration form and pay the applicable fee online.
- Submit the form and download the confirmation receipt.
Note: Missing the re-registration deadline may delay your academic progress. Students who miss the window may need to wait for the next session.
IGNOU International Students Admission 2026
IGNOU offers distance and online programs for international students including candidates from SAARC countries, Non-SAARC nations, NRIs, and FSRI categories. Admission is merit-based and most programs do not require an entrance exam. IGNOU is a popular choice globally due to its affordable fees, flexible learning, and recognized degrees.
Key points for international applicants:
- Programs available: UG, PG, Diploma, and Certificate courses through 100% online and distance learning.
- Separate fee structures apply for SAARC and Non-SAARC country students.
- VISA validity must cover the entire program duration.
- Verified academic documents must be submitted during the application process.
- Limited-seat programs may have restrictions for international applicants.
- No entrance exam required for most courses.
IGNOU Admission FAQs 2026
Ques. What is the last date to apply for IGNOU July 2026 admission?
Ans. The last date to apply for IGNOU July 2026 admission without a late fee is July 15, 2026. Applications are submitted online through the official Samarth portal at ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in. Candidates are advised to apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Ques. Is a DEB ID mandatory for IGNOU admission and how do I create one?
Ans. Yes, a DEB ID (Distance Education Bureau ID) is mandatory for all students enrolling in ODL programs at IGNOU. To create one, first generate an ABC ID (APAAR ID) through the Academic Bank of Credits portal. Then visit the official DEB ID portal, enter your ABC ID and personal details, complete OTP verification, and your DEB ID will be generated instantly. Enter this DEB ID while filling out the IGNOU admission form.
Ques. Can I apply offline for IGNOU admission?
Ans. Yes, IGNOU allows offline applications by obtaining and submitting the form at a regional or study centre. However, IGNOU encourages online applications as they are faster, easier to track, and reduce the chances of errors or delays. The online application is processed through the official Samarth portal.
Ques. What is the IGNOU refund policy if I cancel my admission?
Ans. IGNOU follows a time-based refund policy. If you cancel before the last date of admission, you receive a 100% refund excluding the registration fee. Cancellation within 15 days after the last date results in a deduction of INR 500, and within 30 days, INR 1,000 is deducted. No refund is issued after 30 days of the last admission date. The one-time registration fee of INR 200 is non-refundable in all cases.
Ques. Is re-registration mandatory at IGNOU every semester?
Ans. Yes, re-registration is mandatory for IGNOU students every semester for programs that span multiple semesters or years, such as UG, PG, and Diploma courses. It ensures continued enrollment, course progression, and access to study materials. Re-registration must be completed within the specified window: October to December for the January session and April to June for the July session. Missing the deadline may delay your academic progress.
Ques. Is IGNOU admission open for international students and what are the key requirements?
Ans. Yes, IGNOU offers admission to international students from SAARC countries, Non-SAARC nations, NRIs, and FSRI categories. Admission is merit-based and most programs do not require an entrance exam. International students must ensure their VISA is valid for the entire program duration, submit verified academic documents, and follow the country-specific fee structure. Separate fee structures apply for SAARC and Non-SAARC students.
Ques. How long does IGNOU admission confirmation take?
Ans. IGNOU admission confirmation typically takes 7 to 15 days after submitting the application and documents. In some cases, it may take up to 30 to 60 days due to high application volume or document verification. Once confirmed, candidates receive their enrollment number and login details via email and SMS. If the status is delayed, candidates should contact their regional centre for assistance.
Ques. Does IGNOU offer any fee concessions or scholarships?
Ans. Yes, IGNOU offers fee concessions for selected categories including SC/ST students, differently abled candidates, Jammu and Kashmir residents, and eligible scholarship holders. Valid documents are required to claim these benefits. The registration fee and other administrative charges may still apply even for concession-eligible candidates.