IGNOU Admission 2026 offers an excellent opportunity for students seeking quality distance education from India’s premier open university. The Indira Gandhi National Open University welcomes applications for its diverse programs from June 25, 2026, to September 30, 2026. With an application fee of ₹200 for general category students, IGNOU provides affordable education with undergraduate programs starting from ₹1,500 per semester and postgraduate courses from ₹2,000 per semester. The university holds NAAC A++ accreditation and maintains excellent placement records with top companies.
Students can apply through the official portal at www.ignou.ac.in, choosing from over 200 programs across various disciplines. IGNOU’s flexible learning system allows students to study at their own pace while maintaining high academic standards. The university offers comprehensive study materials, multimedia support, and regular counseling sessions. With UGC-DEB approval and recognition from major employers, IGNOU degrees carry significant weight in both academic and professional spheres. Merit-based admissions ensure fair selection, while results are typically declared within 45 days of examinations.
IGNOU Admission 2026 — Quick Update
- For UG programs, eligibility requires 10+2 (any stream) with minimum 45% marks (40% for reserved categories). Students awaiting their 12th results can apply under provisional admission. IGNOU accepts qualifying marks from any recognized board.
- PG admission needs a Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks (45% for reserved categories) in relevant subjects. Some specialized programs like MBA and MCA may have additional eligibility criteria and entrance requirements.
- Most IGNOU programs offer direct admission without entrance exams. However, programs like B.Ed, MBA, and Ph.D require qualifying entrance tests. OPENNET-VII is conducted for management programs with registration starting April 2026.
- Admission operates on a first-come-first-served basis for most courses. Merit-based selection applies to limited-seat programs. The university follows a bi-annual admission cycle with sessions starting in January and July 2026.
- Program fees vary significantly – Bachelor’s programs range from ₹6,000 to ₹25,000 per year, while Master’s programs cost between ₹12,000 to ₹45,000 annually. Additional costs include registration, exam fees, and study materials.
- Apply through IGNOU’s official portal – SAMARTH. The process includes online registration, document upload, fee payment, and course selection. Application fee: ₹200 for general category and ₹150 for reserved categories.
- IGNOU holds prestigious NAAC A++ accreditation and maintains UGC-DEB recognition. The university’s programs are recognized worldwide, with strong international collaborations and research partnerships.
- Follows national reservation policy: 15% SC, 7.5% ST, 27% OBC, 10% EWS. Additional provisions include 5% seats for differently-abled candidates and special considerations for defense personnel.
- The university’s placement cell facilitates career opportunities across sectors. Recent graduates secured positions with average packages of ₹3.5-8 LPA. Top recruiters include TCS, Infosys, banks, and government organizations.
IGNOU Popular Course
- Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA): Three-year program requiring 10+2 with 45% in Mathematics/Computer Science. Fee: Rs. 12,000 per year. Ideal for aspiring software developers and IT professionals.
- BA in Economics (BAE): Three-year course with 10+2 (any stream) and 35% marks required. Fee: Rs. 8,500 per year. Covers micro/macroeconomics, statistics, and development economics fundamentals.
- Master of Business Administration (MBA): Two-year program requiring bachelor’s degree with 50% marks. Fee: Rs. 25,000 per year. Specializations in Finance, Marketing, HR, and Operations Management available.
- Master of Computer Applications (MCA): Two-year program for graduates with 50% in BCA/BSc(CS/IT)/Mathematics. Fee: Rs. 32,000 per year. Advanced programming and system development focus.
- MA in English (MEG): Two-year course requiring graduation with 35% marks. Fee: Rs. 9,000 per year. Comprehensive coverage of literature, linguistics, and critical theory.
- Diploma in Creative Writing in English (DCE): One-year program requiring 10+2 with 35% marks. Fee: Rs. 4,500. Develops professional writing skills across various genres.
- Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM): One-year program for graduates with 45% marks. Fee: Rs. 18,000. Focuses on essential management concepts and practical business skills.
About IGNOU Education
The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), established in 1985, stands as India’s premier distance learning institution with its headquarters in New Delhi. The university holds an impressive NAAC A++ Grade and secured a notable position in NIRF 2024 Rankings. With comprehensive approvals from UGC-DEB and recognition from regulatory bodies including AICTE, BCI, and NCTE, IGNOU operates through 67 regional centers and over 3,500 study centers nationwide. The university has pioneered innovative learning approaches through its award-winning Gyan Darshan educational TV channel and Gyan Vani FM radio network.
IGNOU offers more than 200 academic programs across 21 schools of studies, serving over 3 million students globally. The university’s research initiatives include specialized centers for disability studies, gender studies, and online education. Notable features include the eGyanKosh digital repository, extensive industry partnerships, and dedicated placement assistance through its Campus Placement Cell. IGNOU provides generous scholarships, including the SC/ST Fee Reimbursement Scheme and BPL Category Support, making quality education accessible to diverse socio-economic groups. The university’s international presence spans 43 countries through its Pan-Africa e-Network and overseas study centers.
IGNOU Distance Learning UG Admission
IGNOU offers a wide range of undergraduate programs through distance learning mode. These courses are designed with flexible study options and affordable fee structures to help students pursue higher education while managing other commitments.
| Course Name | Duration | Selection Criteria | Fee Range (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) | 3 years | Direct Admission | 7,200 – 8,400 |
| Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) | 3 years | Direct Admission | 7,800 – 9,000 |
| Bachelor of Science (BSc) | 3 years | Direct Admission | 9,000 – 12,000 |
| BCA | 3 years | Merit-based | 12,000 – 15,000 |
| Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) | 3 years | Direct Admission | 8,400 – 9,600 |
| Bachelor of Library Science (BLISc) | 1 year | Merit-based | 9,600 – 11,200 |
| BA in Tourism Studies | 3 years | Direct Admission | 8,400 – 9,600 |
All programs follow a semester-based system with flexible examination schedules. Students can complete assignments and practical components through IGNOU’s study centers located across India. Registration for January 2026 session opens from September 1, 2025.
IGNOU UG Course Details
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
- A versatile 3-year program offering specializations in History, Political Science, Economics, Sociology, Public Administration, and Psychology. Perfect for students interested in humanities and social sciences.
- Core subjects include English/Hindi communication, environmental studies, and research methodology. Students must choose three major elective subjects from available disciplines.
- Eligibility: 12th pass from any recognized board with minimum 35% marks. No age restriction for admission.
- Duration: 3 years (minimum) to 6 years (maximum). Flexibility to complete at your own pace within the maximum timeframe.
- Fee: ₹3,600 per year for the full program. Additional examination fees applicable separately.
Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)
- Comprehensive program covering accounting, business law, economics, management, and taxation. Ideal for students aiming for careers in finance and commerce.
- Practical exposure through case studies and project work. Special focus on computerized accounting and financial management systems.
- Eligibility: 12th pass with 40% marks (35% for reserved categories). Mathematics/Commerce at 10+2 level recommended but not mandatory.
- Duration: 3 years minimum with flexibility up to 6 years. Semester-based evaluation system.
- Fee: ₹4,500 per year inclusive of study materials. Extra cost for practical sessions if applicable.
Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)
- Industry-oriented program focusing on programming languages, software development, database management, and computer networks.
- Hands-on training through virtual labs and programming assignments. Includes latest technologies like Python, Java, and web development.
- Eligibility: 12th pass with 45% marks (40% for reserved categories). Mathematics at 10+2 level is mandatory.
- Duration: 3 years minimum to 6 years maximum. Includes practical sessions and project work in final year.
- Fee: ₹6,000 per year including practical lab fees and study materials. Additional exam fees apply.
IGNOU Distance Learning PG Admission
IGNOU offers diverse postgraduate programs through distance learning, combining academic excellence with flexibility. Here are the popular PG courses available for 2026 admission with their duration and fee structure:
| Course Name | Duration | Fee Range |
|---|---|---|
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | 2 Years | ₹31,500 (Full Program) |
| Master of Computer Applications (MCA) | 2 Years | ₹36,000 (Full Program) |
| MA English | 2 Years | ₹13,800 (Full Program) |
| MA Psychology | 2 Years | ₹16,200 (Full Program) |
| MSc Environmental Science | 2 Years | ₹18,000 (Full Program) |
All PG programs follow a semester-based evaluation system with assignments and term-end examinations. Students can access study materials through IGNOU’s e-Gyankosh portal and attend virtual counseling sessions. Merit-based admission is available for most courses, while some specialized programs may require entrance tests.
IGNOU PG Course Details
Master of Commerce (M.Com) offers advanced knowledge in finance, accounting, and business management. Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with minimum 50% marks. Duration: 2 years. Fee: Rs. 13,200 for full program. Selection through merit-based direct admission. Program includes specializations in accounting, finance, and business policy with industry-relevant curriculum and practical case studies.
Master of Arts in English (MA English) develops advanced literary analysis and communication skills. Eligibility: Graduate degree with 45% marks in any discipline. Duration: 2 years. Fee: Rs. 12,600 for complete program. Direct admission based on first-come-first-served basis. Covers British literature, American literature, Indian writing, and critical theory with research methodology component.
Master of Computer Applications (MCA) prepares students for IT industry careers. Eligibility: BCA/B.Sc(IT)/B.Sc(CS) with 50% marks and mathematics at 10+2 level. Duration: 2 years. Fee: Rs. 54,000 for entire course. Merit-based admission process. Curriculum includes advanced programming, software engineering, data analytics, and project work with optional specializations.
Master of Arts in Psychology (MA Psychology) focuses on human behavior and mental processes. Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with 45% marks. Duration: 2 years. Fee: Rs. 14,400 for full program. Direct admission available. Covers clinical psychology, counseling, research methods, and practical training through internships and case studies.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) develops management and leadership expertise. Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks in any stream. Duration: 2 years. Fee: Rs. 31,500 for complete program. Selection through direct admission. Offers specializations in Marketing, Finance, HR, and Operations with industry projects and case study approach.
IGNOU Diploma Admission
- IGNOU offers diverse diploma programs including Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education (DECE), Diploma in Creative Writing in English (DCE), and Diploma in Value Added Products from Fruits and Vegetables (DVAPFV). Basic eligibility requires 35% in 10+2 or equivalent. Program duration ranges from 1-2 years with fees between ₹4,500 to ₹12,000.
- Admission is primarily through direct entry based on qualifying marks. Students can apply online through the IGNOU portal during June 1 – July 15, 2025 (for July session) or December 1 – January 15, 2026 (for January session). Merit-based selection applies for limited-seat programs.
- Popular technical diplomas like Diploma in Computer Applications (DCA) and Diploma in Business Management (DBM) have program-specific eligibility criteria with 40% minimum marks requirement. These programs offer flexible learning with practical training components and industry-oriented curriculum.
IGNOU PG Diploma Admission
PG Diploma in Business Analytics (PGDBA)
This industry-aligned program equips students with data analysis and business intelligence skills. Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline with 50% marks. Duration: 1 year (2 semesters). Program Fee: Rs. 18,500. Selection is merit-based on graduation marks. The course includes practical training in Python, R, and statistical tools with real business case studies.
PG Diploma in Environmental Studies (PGDES)
A specialized program focusing on environmental management and sustainable development. Eligibility: Graduate degree with 45% marks in any field. Duration: 1 year with flexible exam schedule. Fee: Rs. 12,000. Direct admission based on first-come-first-served basis. Students receive comprehensive study materials and access to virtual labs.
PG Diploma in Cyber Security (PGDCS)
Advanced program covering network security, ethical hacking, and cybercrime investigation. Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks in IT/Computer Science or related field. Duration: 1 year split into 2 semesters. Course Fee: Rs. 22,000. Merit-based admission with preference to IT professionals. Includes hands-on training and virtual lab access.
PG Diploma in Translation Studies (PGDTS)
Comprehensive program in translation theories and practices. Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with 45% marks and proficiency in English plus one Indian language. Duration: 1 year. Program Fee: Rs. 15,000. Direct admission with mandatory language proficiency test. Includes practical translation projects and industry exposure.
IGNOU Certificate Admission
- IGNOU offers diverse certificate programs including Certificate in Food & Nutrition, Tourism Studies, Teaching English, and Computing. Eligibility requires 10th pass with 35% marks. Programs typically run for 6 months with fees ranging from ₹1,800 to ₹4,500.
- Admission is based on direct entry with no entrance exam required. Students need to complete registration through the IGNOU portal during July 1 – September 30, 2025 (for January 2026 session) or January 1 – March 31, 2026 (for July 2026 session).
- Certificate programs feature flexible learning with self-study materials and optional contact sessions. Evaluation includes assignments (30%) and term-end examination (70%). Students can access study materials through IGNOU’s e-Gyankosh platform and attend practical sessions at nearby study centers.