Indira Gandhi National Open University, commonly known as IGNOU, is one of the leading institutions in India offering higher education through open and distance learning. Established under the Parliament Act of 1985 and managed by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, IGNOU has grown into one of the most trusted varsities for distance education in India. With a huge network of regional centers and expert faculty, the university has expanded its reach both nationally and internationally. The university’s Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) has increased significantly over the years, proving its popularity and effectiveness in catering to students across the globe.
As of 2024, IGNOU has an impressive enrollment of 7 million students, making it the first university to reach such a milestone. Additionally, the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) awarded IGNOU an A++ grade, cementing its reputation as a top-tier institution in distance education.
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Key Highlights of IGNOU
- Short Name of the University: IGNOU
- Full Name of the University: Indira Gandhi National Open University
- University Type: Public University
- Mode of Education: Open Varsity / Distance Learning
- Courses Offered: UG, PG, Diploma, Certificate, Ph.D.
- Official Website: ignou.ac.in
IGNOU Latest Announcements – 2024
- IGNOU Tentative Dates Sheet – Dec 2024
- IGNOU Study Material Status – July 2024
- IGNOU Results – June 2024
Course List – 2024
Over the years, IGNOU has continuously updated and expanded its course offerings to meet the evolving needs of students. As a result, the university now provides an extensive range of courses from undergraduate to doctoral levels along with diplomas and certificates. This flexibility allows students to pursue courses based on their career aspirations. Some of the major courses include:
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree
- Diploma Courses
- Certificate Courses
- Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy)
IGNOU ensures quality in all its programs, making it a reliable platform for students who seek distance learning opportunities. However, eligibility criteria must be met for each course before admission.
IGNOU Admissions – 2024
IGNOU offers a broad array of degrees and certificate courses to students worldwide. If you’re looking to apply, understanding the admission process is key. The university admits students through three main methods:
- Direct Admission
- Entrance Examination
- Merit List (for select courses)
Most of the courses at IGNOU follow a direct admission process, while a few specialized programs like BSc Nursing, B.Ed., and Ph.D. require entrance exams. You can submit your admission form either online via the official website or offline through a regional center. The online method is highly recommended for its speed and simplicity.
How to Apply
Here’s a step-by-step guide for applying to IGNOU:
- Visit the official website of IGNOU – ignou.ac.in.
- On the homepage, locate the “Register Online” tab and click on the “Fresh Admission” link. Currently, it is showing PDF with links to register different for different courses.
- Begin the registration process by clicking the appropriate link in PDF, filling out your details (name, gender, email, etc.) and submitting the form.
- After registration, log in to complete the application form for your chosen course.
- Upload the required documents in scanned format (file size should be less than or equal to 10KB).
- Pay the application fee, which typically ranges from ₹200 to ₹400.
- After payment, you’ll receive a control number—save this number and take a printout of your application form. You will receive an enrollment number after your documents are verified.
Course Fee Structure
The fee structure at IGNOU varies depending on the course, generally ranging between ₹1000 for certificate courses to ₹72,000 for masters. However, fees can be paid in installments, either yearly or by semester. Failure to pay the full course fee on time may result in restrictions from taking examinations.
Fee Exemption, Scholarships & Reimbursement
IGNOU offers fee exemption or reimbursement for students belonging to the SC/ST categories. Eligible students can also apply for Government of India scholarships by obtaining forms from the Social Welfare Office in their state, submitting them for certification at the IGNOU Regional Centre, and then returning them to the welfare office for fee reimbursement.
Additionally, students with disabilities can apply for scholarships through the National Centre for Promotion of Employment of Disabled People (NCPEDP) for postgraduate programmes. SC/ST/OBC/Minority/PWD students can also access various fee waiver or scholarship schemes offered by UGC, MHRD, and State Governments. More details can be found in the IGNOU prospectus on the university website.
IGNOU Re-Registration
Re-registration is a mandatory process for all IGNOU students at the end of every semester or session to continue their studies. Students can easily do that through the re-registrion portal at onlinerr.ignou.ac.in. It’s forth both Indian and international students. This process allows students to pay their fees in installments, either by semester or session. Make sure that you wait till the last date of submission as the server may get congested by that time and also if the payment is not updated, don’t make the payment again, wait for a day to reflect.
Study Material
IGNOU provides high-quality study materials that are designed to help students achieve excellent academic performance. These materials are also useful for those preparing for civil service or government exams. Upon enrollment, students receive course-related books and resources directly from the university. You can check the status of dispatch on their Material Production & Distribution Division (MPDD) page by inputting the enrollment number.
- Study material dispatch status – July 2024
- Study material dispatch status – January 2024
IGNOU Regional & Study Centres
IGNOU operates over 55 regional centers across India, offering a wide range of support services. Each regional center oversees multiple study centers, providing students with access to offline classes, doubt-clearing sessions, and exam support. There are also over 10 regional centers dedicated specifically to army personnel.
| AGARTALA | AHMEDABAD | AIZAWL |
| ALIGARH | ANGUL | BANGALORE |
| BHAGALPUR | BHOPAL | BHUBANESWAR |
| BIJAPUR | CHANDIGARH | CHENNAI |
| COCHIN | DARBHANGA | DEHRADUN |
| DELHI-1 | DELHI-2 | DELHI-3 |
| DEOGHAR | GANGTOK | GUWAHATI |
| HYDERABAD | IMPHAL | ITANAGAR |
| JABALPUR | JAIPUR | JAMMU |
| JODHPUR | JORHAT | KARNAL |
| KHANNA | KOHIMA | KOLKATA |
| KORAPUT | LUCKNOW | MADURAI |
| MUMBAI | NAGPUR | NOIDA |
| PANAJI | PATNA | PORT BLAIR |
| PUNE | RAGHUNATHGANJ | RAIPUR |
| RAJKOT | RANCHI | SAHARSA |
| SHILLONG | SHIMLA | SILIGURI |
| SRINAGAR | TRIVANDRUM | VARANASI |
| VATAKARA | VIJAYAWADA | VISAKHAPATNAM |
IGNOU Overseas Study Centre List (Updated)
IGNOU Overseas division was set up on 16th October 1997 as a Cell and became a full Division in 2002. Its goal is to expand IGNOU internationally through collaboration, coordination, cooperation, and competition.
The International Division serves Overseas Students and Foreign Students Residing in India (FSRI). It coordinates Overseas Study Centres in select countries, offering IGNOU’s academic programs. Currently, 59 programs are offered through overseas centres, and 193 programs to FSRIs in India. IGNOU’s programs are available in countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Ethiopia, Kenya, Ivory Coast, Kyrgyzstan, Singapore, and Mauritius.
Currently, there are 22 fully functioning centers and 3 erstwhile institutions functioning just for existing students. You can download the list by clicking here for complete details.
Helpline Details
For any queries, IGNOU students can contact their study center or regional center. Download this contact list PDF for complete list of contact details. Here are the main helpline numbers:
- Student Enquiry Numbers: 011-29572513, 011-29572514
- Centralised Student Registration Cell- Online Admissions: 011-29571528
- Admission Enquiries: 011-29571301, 29571302, 29532686 (Fax)
- Email – csrc@ignou.ac.in
These numbers are available Monday through Friday, 9:30 AM to 6 PM.
Conclusion
Enrolling at IGNOU is a wise choice for anyone seeking a flexible yet accredited educational path. The university offers degrees, diplomas, and certificates that are recognized both in India and internationally. With affordable fees, installment options, and extensive study materials, IGNOU stands as a leader in distance education. The university’s commitment to digitalization further ensures that students stay connected and informed about their studies at all times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, IGNOU is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and adheres to its guidelines.
Yes, IGNOU is a public university run by the central government.
Yes, IGNOU degrees are recognized both in India and abroad for employment and further studies.
Theory classes are not mandatory, but practical sessions are.
It depends on your preparation. With adequate study, they are manageable.
Yes, IGNOU has a Placement Cell at its main campus in New Delhi.