About IGNOU
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), founded in 1985, is a top distance learning national university, named after India's former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. As one of the world's largest open universities, IGNOU educates more than 4 million students in India and worldwide with flexible and low-cost education in various disciplines. UGC, Distance Education Bureau (DEB), & AICTE have recognized IGNOU. IGNOU is an important element in democratizing and taking education to disadvantaged and rural populations. Strong online presence and more than 60 regional centers make IGNOU accessible to students of various geographies and life stages.
IGNOU Highlights
Founded |
1985 by an Act of Parliament |
Education Mode |
Distance, Online & Open Learning |
Recognition |
UGC-DEB, AICTE, NCTE, INC |
Students Covered |
More than 4 million globally |
Regional Hubs |
60+ in India |
Courses Provided |
200+ Certificate to Ph.D. level |
Economical Fees |
Made cost-effective for every economic class |
Flexibility |
Learn at your own pace with self-study material & online assistance |
Entrance Tests |
Only for some programs |
Key Dates Academic Year 2025
January 2025 Session
Admission Begins- November 2024
Admission Deadline- January 31, 2025
Re-registration- November to January
Term-End Exam Form- Submission March 2025
Term-End Examinations-June 2025
Result Declaration August 2025
July 2025 Session
Admission Begins- May 2025
Admission Last Date- July 31, 2025
Re-registration- May to July
Term-End Exam Form- September 2025
Term-End Exams- December 2025
Result Announcement- February 2026
Top IGNOU Courses with Fee & Eligibility
1. Bachelor of Arts
Duration: 3 years
Fee: 4,200/year
Eligibility: 10+2 or equivalent
Medium: English & Hindi
2. Bachelor of Science B.Sc.
Duration: 3 years
Fee: 5,700/year
Eligibility: 10+2 with science subjects
3. Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)
Duration: 3 years
Fee: 4,200/year
Eligibility: 10+2 or equivalent
4. Master of Arts in English, History, Psychology, etc.
Duration: 2 years
Fee: 6,600–9,000 totals varies by subject
Eligibility: Bachelor’s Degree
5. Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Environmental Science, Dietetics
Duration: 2 years
Fee: 15,000–20,000 total
Eligibility: B.Sc. or relevant bachelor's degree
6. MBA through OPENMAT or merit-based entry
Duration: 2.5 years minimum
Fee: 15,500/semester
Eligibility: Graduation + Entrance Test OPENMAT or CAT score
7. Bachelor of Education B.Ed
Duration: 2 years
Fee: 55,000 total
Eligibility: Graduation + 2 years of teaching experience + B.Ed. entrance test
8. Certificate & Diploma Programs
Duration: 6 months to 1 year
Fee: 1,000 –10,000
Eligibility: Varies (Class 10, 12 or Graduate level)
Career Opportunities and Scope after IGNOU
IGNOU degrees are highly valued and accepted by government organizations and private companies in India and abroad. Graduates may opt for:
Government jobs UPSC, SSC, and State PSCs
Academic and Teaching Careers
Research and Higher Education Ph.D & M.Phil
Corporate Sector Positions (HR, Finance, Marketing)
Freelancing and Consulting
Entrepreneurship & NGOs
International opportunities particularly for online students
Why Choose IGNOU?
1. Affordable & Accessible Education
IGNOU programs are made affordable for all students.
2. Valid Degrees
Approved for government and private employment in India and overseas
3. Convenience of Learning
Study at your convenience with printed study materials, online lectures, and weekend study centers.
4. Support System
Regional centers, online support helplines, mobile apps, and student service portals
5. Large Number of Courses
From certificate to Ph.D. level, in various disciplines
6. Scholarships and Fee Concessions
Offered for economically weaker and reserved category students
FAQs
Q1: Is IGNOU degree valid for government jobs?
Answer. Yes, IGNOU is UGC-recognized and its degrees are acceptable for UPSC, SSC, banking, and state government recruitment.
Q2: How do I apply for admission?
Answer. Apply online at https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in.
Q3: Are IGNOU courses difficult to clear?
Answer. Courses are academically challenging, but study material is well-organized. With consistent study and submission of assignments, students can clear successfully.
Q4: Can I pursue IGNOU while working full-time?
Answer. Yes, IGNOU is best suited for working professionals because of its flexible distance mode.
Q5: Does IGNOU provide online classes?
Answer. Yes, most of the programs provide online learning, recorded lectures, and e-content through the eGyankosh and SWAYAM portals.
Q6: How are the exams held?
Answer. Term-End Exams is held twice a year (June & December) at allotted centers.
Q7: What is the passing mark in IGNOU?
Answer. As a rule, 40% marks in theory and assignments are needed to clear a course.