The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) admission process is designed to be simple, flexible, and accessible for learners across India and abroad.
Admissions are conducted mainly through an online mode, allowing students to enroll without visiting the campus.
IGNOU offers multiple admission cycles every year and follows a merit-based selection system for most programmes.
Eligibility criteria vary depending on the level and nature of the programme chosen.
Admission Process Overview
| Admission Aspect |
Details |
| Mode of Application |
Online |
| Selection Basis |
Merit-based (Eligibility Criteria) |
| Entrance Exam |
Not required for most programmes |
| Admission Cycles |
Multiple cycles (January & July sessions) |
Most IGNOU programmes do not require entrance examinations.
Admission is granted after successful application submission and document verification.
Eligibility Criteria
| Programme Level |
Minimum Eligibility Requirement |
| Undergraduate (UG) |
10+2 or equivalent from a recognised board |
| Postgraduate (PG) |
Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university |
| Diploma / Certificate |
10+2 or Graduation (programme-specific) |
| Doctoral (PhD) |
Postgraduate degree with minimum required marks |
Online Registration
Students must apply through the official IGNOU admission portal during active admission windows.
Accurate information and document uploads are essential to avoid application rejection.
- Create or log in using a registered email ID
- Select programme and admission session
- Fill personal and academic details
- Upload scanned documents
Document Verification
IGNOU verifies uploaded documents to confirm eligibility.
Any discrepancy may result in application rejection or delay.
- Educational certificates
- Identity proof
- Category certificates (if applicable)
Fee Payment & Enrolment
After verification, candidates must pay the programme fee online.
Once payment is confirmed, the enrolment process is completed.
- Payment modes: UPI, debit/credit card, net banking
- Confirmation generated after successful payment
- Access to study material and learner dashboard provided
Admission Timelines
| Admission Session |
Typical Timeline |
| January Session |
December – January |
| July Session |
June – July |
Exact admission dates are announced on the official IGNOU website.
Applicants should regularly check notifications to avoid missing deadlines.
IGNOU Admission FAQs
Q1: How can I apply for admission to IGNOU?
You can apply online through the IGNOU admission portal.
Register, choose a programme, upload documents, and pay the fee.
Admission is confirmed after verification.
Q2: Does IGNOU conduct entrance exams for admission?
Most IGNOU programmes do not require entrance exams.
Admission is based on minimum eligibility criteria.
Some specialised courses may have additional conditions.
Q3: When does IGNOU open admissions every year?
IGNOU usually opens admissions in January and July sessions.
Multiple cycles may be offered depending on the programme.
Dates are announced on the official website.
Q4: Is IGNOU admission available throughout the year?
Admissions are not open year-round but occur in fixed cycles.
Students must apply within announced timelines.
Late applications are generally not accepted.
