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The Ultimate Guide to IGNOU

Your starting point for understanding Indira Gandhi National Open University. Learn the basics, find resources, and explore our in-depth guides to specific programmes.

About The People's University

IGNOU Logo

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), known as The People's University, was established by an Act of Parliament in 1985. Its core mission is to democratize higher education by taking it to the doorsteps of learners across India and beyond. As the world's largest university, it provides high-quality, flexible, and affordable education to millions, irrespective of their age, region, or background.

  • Accredited with the highest A++ Grade by NAAC, a testament to its quality.
  • Recognized as a Centre of Excellence in Distance Education by the Commonwealth of Learning (COL).

UGC Recognition & IGNOU's Special Status

All degrees, diplomas, and certificates awarded by IGNOU are fully recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC). As per UGC notification, qualifications acquired through ODL mode are treated as equivalent to those from conventional universities for all purposes, including higher education and employment.

IGNOU's Exemption under the IGNOU Act, 1985

Crucially, IGNOU is a National Open University established by its own Act of Parliament (the IGNOU Act, 1985). Because of this unique status, the UGC has granted it an exemption from many standard ODL (Open and Distance Learning) and Online regulations that apply to other universities. This special status allows IGNOU to offer certain programmes (like Psychology) and maintain a unique operational framework, ensuring its mission to provide accessible education continues unhindered.

The Admission Process

  1. Find Your Programme: Browse the IGNOU Common Prospectus to find the programme you want to pursue and check the eligibility criteria.
  2. Apply Online: Admissions are taken online through the Samarth portal: ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in. Create a new user account to start your application.
  3. Upload Documents: You will need to upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and educational documents (like 10th and 12th marksheets and certificates).
  4. Pay the Fee: Pay the programme fee and registration fee online via Debit/Credit Card or Net Banking.
  5. Confirmation: After submission, your application will be verified. Once confirmed, you will receive an SMS and email with your Enrolment Number. You can then download your official IGNOU ID card from the student portal.

The Academic System at IGNOU

The Credit System

IGNOU's programmes are based on a credit system. One credit is equivalent to 30 hours of study time. To earn your degree, you must successfully complete all the required credits for your programme by passing the associated assignments and exams.

Study Material (SLM)

After your admission is confirmed, IGNOU will dispatch high-quality printed books, known as Self-Learning Material (SLM), to your registered address. You can also opt for digital SLMs during admission to get a 15% discount on your programme fee. All digital materials are available on the eGyanKosh portal.

The Evaluation System

Your final grade for each course is calculated based on two components:

  • Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMA): Carry a weightage of 30%.
  • Term-End Examination (TEE): Carries a weightage of 70%.

To pass a course, you must score a minimum of 35% in both components separately. They are not complementary.

The IGNOU Support System Explained

IGNOU's support structure can seem confusing, but it's simple when you know who to contact. Here’s a breakdown of the key components.

Regional Centre (RC): Your Admin Hub

The RC is your main administrative office for a geographical region. Think of it as the university's branch that manages your student record.

Contact your RC for:
  • Admission confirmation and ID card issues
  • Changes to your address or Study Centre
  • Exam-related issues (centre changes, results)
  • Final grade card and degree certificate

Study Centre (LSC): Your Academic Hub

This is your local academic contact point. You'll be assigned a Study Centre (also called a Learner Support Centre) for face-to-face academic support.

Contact your LSC for:
  • Schedule for Academic Counselling sessions
  • Submitting physical assignments (if required)
  • Information on practicals and viva-voce
  • General academic guidance from counsellors

Your Step-by-Step IGNOU Journey

1. Admission

2. Get Books (SLM)

3. Counselling Sessions

4. Submit Assignments

5. Fill Exam Form

6. Appear for Exams

7. Check Results & Re-register

8. Get Degree

Dual Degrees & Simultaneous Registration

As per UGC and IGNOU policy, you can pursue two academic programmes simultaneously, opening up new learning pathways. Here are the allowed combinations:

Two ODL/Online Degrees

You can pursue two separate degree programmes (e.g., two Bachelor's or two Master's degrees) from IGNOU or other ODL universities at the same time.

One ODL + One Regular

You can enroll in an IGNOU degree while simultaneously pursuing a full-time, regular degree from a conventional university.

Degree + Certificate/Diploma

You can combine a degree programme with any certificate (6 months) or diploma (1 year) programme, even within the same admission cycle.

Important Note: IGNOU will not adjust schedules. If your counselling sessions or exam dates for the two programmes clash, you are responsible for managing your time.

Financial Information & Support

Government Scholarships

Eligible IGNOU students can apply for various Government of India scholarships, including those for SC/ST students. All applications must be submitted online through the National Scholarship Portal.

Visit Scholarship Portal

SC/ST Fee Reimbursement

IGNOU provides programme fee exemption/reimbursement for eligible SC and ST students as per its policy. This benefit is for one programme only and does not cover exam fees or other charges. You must submit a valid income certificate at the time of admission.

Important University Rules

Re-Registration (RR)

This is the process of registering for the next year of your programme (e.g., moving from Year 1 to Year 2). It is mandatory to do this online at the start of each academic year, regardless of whether you have passed all your previous exams.

Re-Admission

If you cannot complete your degree within the maximum allowed duration (e.g., 6 years for a 3-year BA), you can take "Re-Admission." This involves applying for a fresh admission and then applying for a credit transfer of the courses you have already passed.

IGNOU's Digital Ecosystem

Student Portal

Your personal dashboard to download your ID card, re-register for courses, and manage your profile.

Go to Portal

eGyanKosh (e-Books)

IGNOU's digital library. Access and download digital versions of all your course books (SLMs) for free.

Access e-Books

Gyan Darshan

IGNOU's educational TV channel. Watch live lectures and recorded academic programs.

Watch Now

Gyan Vani

An educational FM Radio network with curriculum-based programs and live counselling sessions.

Listen Live

Our In-Depth Psychology Guides

Ready to dive deeper? Choose your programme to get a complete, step-by-step guide with syllabus, resources, and career advice.

B.A. (Honours) Psychology

A complete guide for the BAPCH (CBCS) programme. Covers the full 3-year syllabus, exam processes, and career path information.

View BAPCH Guide

B.A. (Major) Psychology

Everything you need to know about the new BAFPC (FYUP) programme. Details on the 3-year Major, 4-year Honours, and all course options.

View BAFPC Guide