IGNOU: Admissions 2025 – Fees, Eligibility, Last Date & Process

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is the world's largest open university, offering over 200 online learning programs. IGNOU degrees are recognised globally and deemed equivalent to those from other authorised colleges. The university admits students twice a year, in January and July.

Admission Sessions

Registrations for the January session normally begin in December and continue through January. Registrations for the July session commence in May. Admission to IGNOU programs is available both online and offline. The online application forms are available at the university's official admissions website, Ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in. Students who apply offline must submit their forms to the nearest IGNOU regional centre, albeit this option is only accessible for a limited number of courses.

Programs Offered

IGNOU provides a wide range of courses at different levels:

Undergraduate (UG) Programs:

Courses Available: BA, B.Com, BBA, B.Sc, BCA, BPP, BSW, BLIS.

Duration: Most UG courses are 3 years, while BPP and BLIS are 1 year.

Admission Criteria: Merit-based, based on 10+2 examination marks for most courses. Specific criteria apply for certain courses.

Postgraduate (PG) Programs:

Courses Available: MA, M.Sc, M.Com, MCA, MSW, MLIS, MTTM, MBA.

Duration: Typically 2 years, with some courses extending up to 4 years. MLIS is 1 year.

Admission Criteria: Merit-based, based on the marks obtained in the qualifying degree.

Diploma and Certificate Courses:

Courses Available: A variety of diploma and certificate programs across several fields.

Duration varies by program.

PhD and MPhil Programs:

Courses available include PhD and M.Phil programs in several subjects.

Admission Criteria: Entrance exams are necessary for these programs.

Entrance-Based Admissions

Admission to various programs is based on IGNOU-conducted entrance tests. This includes:

B.Ed: Candidates must pass the IGNOU BEd Entrance Test.

Post Basic B.Sc Nursing: Admission requires passing the IGNOU OPENNET.

M.Phil and Ph.D.: Admission is through the IGNOU Entrance Test and may include a personal interview.

Online Distance Learning (ODL).

IGNOU provides 41 Online Distance Learning (ODL) courses at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These courses are totally online, allowing students to engage from anywhere without having to physically attend classes. Admission to these courses is also offered twice a year, with selection based on merit.

Application Process

To apply for admission, candidates need take the following steps:

To register online, go to the official IGNOU website and choose the Register Online link.

Select fresh admission and fill out the registration form with the relevant information. A username and password will be provided to the registered email address.

Log in with the specified credentials to fill out the application form with personal, educational, and course information.

Required Documents:

Scanned photograph (less than 100 KB)

Scanned signature (less than 100 KB)

Scanned copies of age proof, educational qualifications, experience certificate (if any), category certificate, and BPL certificate (if applicable).

Payment of Fees:

Payment can be made via credit card, debit card, net banking, or ATM card. A payment confirmation slip should be saved for future reference.

International students

IGNOU also accepts overseas students from SAARC, non-SAARC, NRI, and FSRI nations. International students apply online using the official admission portal for overseas applicants, ignouforeigniop.samarth.edu.in. International students must have a valid visa, meet specific eligibility requirements, and pay a separate price structure. Admission is based on merit.

Admission Status:

After submitting the application, students can check their admission status online. To check the progress of your application, go to the official IGNOU admission portal and provide the necessary information. Admission confirmation will be sent via email or text message.

Re-Registration

Re-registration is required for continuing students to enrol in the next semester or academic year. Students who have not taken term-end exams or submitted assignments may also request re-registration. The process includes login into the IGNOU website, selecting courses, and paying the re-registration fee.

Fee Structure and Refund Policies

Registration fee is INR 200 (non-refundable).

Refund Policy: Admission fees are refundable under specific conditions. If you cancel before the deadline, you will receive a full refund minus the registration charge. Cancellations made within defined time periods after the closing date of admission will result in partial reimbursements with deduction.