IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University) is one of the largest and most popular open universities in India. Every year, IGNOU offers a variety of undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate courses. If you are looking to apply for IGNOU admission 2026, here is all the important information you need to know.

How to Apply for IGNOU Admission

The application process for IGNOU admission 2026 is online. Follow these simple steps:

  1. Visit the Official Website: Go to the official IGNOU website.
  2. Create an Account: Register by providing your email address and phone number.
  3. Fill the Application Form: Complete the online form with personal and academic details.
  4. Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your educational certificates, photographs, and signature.
  5. Pay the Fee: Pay the application fee online using debit/credit cards or net banking.
  6. Submit the Form: After reviewing, submit your application.

Make sure to keep the application form number and payment receipt for future reference.

IGNOU Admission Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility requirements for IGNOU admission 2026 depend on the course you are applying for. Here’s a general guideline:

  • Undergraduate Courses: You need to have passed the 10+2 examination or its equivalent from a recognized board.
  • Postgraduate Courses: A Bachelor’s degree in the relevant field is required for most PG courses.
  • Diploma and Certificate Courses: For diploma and certificate programs, eligibility may vary. Most programs require at least a 10th or 12th-grade education.

Make sure to check the specific course eligibility before applying.

IGNOU Entrance Exam

Some courses at IGNOU require you to appear for an entrance exam. Here’s what you should know:

  • Courses Requiring Entrance Exam: Common courses that require an entrance exam include M.Phil, Ph.D., and some specialized PG courses.
  • Exam Date: The entrance exam for IGNOU admission 2026 will usually be held in May or June. Keep checking the official website for exact dates.
  • Exam Pattern: The entrance exam generally consists of multiple-choice questions. The test assesses general knowledge, subject-specific knowledge, and reasoning ability.

IGNOU Admission Fees

The fee structure for IGNOU varies based on the course level and program type. Here is a general overview:

  • Undergraduate Programs: Fees range between INR 1,000 to INR 5,000 per year.
  • Postgraduate Programs: Fees are generally between INR 3,000 to INR 15,000 per year.
  • Diploma and Certificate Courses: These programs have relatively lower fees, starting from INR 500 to INR 10,000.

Check the official IGNOU website for specific course fees.

IGNOU Selection Process

The selection process for IGNOU admission depends on the course type:

  1. For Most Programs: Candidates are selected based on their academic qualifications. No entrance exam is required for undergraduate and many postgraduate programs.
  2. For Courses Requiring an Entrance Exam: Candidates must appear for and pass the entrance exam. Shortlisted candidates are then selected based on their performance in the exam.
  3. Counseling: Some programs may require you to attend counseling sessions for final admission.

Final Thoughts

IGNOU admission 2026 provides a great opportunity for students across India and abroad. Whether you’re applying for a UG, PG, or diploma course, the process is simple and accessible online. Be sure to check the eligibility, exam dates, and fees for your specific program. Prepare well for the entrance exam if applicable, and follow the steps to submit your application on time. Keep track of all updates on the official IGNOU website to stay informed about important dates and announcements.