Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) provides multiple scholarship and fee reimbursement schemes to support students from economically weaker and socially marginalised backgrounds.
These scholarships aim to ensure equal access to higher education and reduce financial barriers for eligible learners.
IGNOU scholarships are primarily offered through central government schemes, statutory bodies such as UGC, and category-based fee reimbursement programmes.
Eligible students from SC, ST, OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), minority communities, women learners, and persons with disabilities can avail financial assistance.
IGNOU Scholarship Overview
IGNOU does not directly distribute most scholarships but facilitates eligible students to apply through recognised government portals.
Fee reimbursement and scholarship benefits are credited directly to the student’s bank account as per scheme guidelines.
IGNOU Scholarships 2026
| Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Benefits |
| NSP (PM-USP) Yojana |
80% in Class 12, UG/PG students, family income ≤ INR 4.5 LPA |
Up to INR 82,000 per annum |
| UGC Postgraduate Scholarship |
First-time PG students below 30 years |
INR 10,000 – 15,000 per month |
| IGNOU SC/ST Fee Reimbursement |
SC/ST category students |
Full or partial fee waiver |
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility for IGNOU scholarships depends on the specific scheme applied for.
Common eligibility requirements include category status, income limits, academic performance, and enrolment in an IGNOU-recognised programme.
- Valid IGNOU admission and enrolment number
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Family income certificate as per scheme norms
- Bank account linked with Aadhaar
Application Process
Most IGNOU scholarships are applied for through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).
Students must submit accurate academic and personal details to avoid application rejection.
- Register on the National Scholarship Portal
- Select the appropriate scholarship scheme
- Fill academic, income, and category details
- Upload required documents
- Submit and track application status
IGNOU Scholarship FAQs
Q1: Does IGNOU provide scholarships directly to students?
IGNOU mainly facilitates scholarships offered by government bodies.
Financial benefits are credited directly to student bank accounts.
The university assists in verification and eligibility confirmation.
Q2: Are IGNOU scholarships available for general category students?
Most scholarships are category or income-based.
Some merit-based schemes are open to general category students.
Eligibility depends on scheme-specific guidelines.
Q3: Can working professionals studying at IGNOU apply for scholarships?
Yes, working professionals can apply if they meet eligibility criteria.
Income limits and academic conditions must be satisfied.
Employment does not automatically disqualify applicants.
Q4: Is fee reimbursement applicable for all IGNOU programmes?
Fee reimbursement depends on the scholarship scheme.
Most UG and PG programmes are covered.
Professional courses may have different conditions.
Q5: Where can students check official IGNOU scholarship updates?
Official updates are published on the IGNOU website and NSP portal.
Students should regularly track notifications.
Only official portals should be used for applications.
