Indira Gandhi National Open University (Admission Open, Fees, Courses, Scholarships, Placements)

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), the world’s largest open university, offers comprehensive financial assistance through several scholarship schemes to ensure higher education is accessible to all deserving students. With fees ranging typically from ₹3,700 to ₹10,800 per year, IGNOU supports fee exemptions, reimbursements, and scholarships specifically targeted towards students from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds

Overview of IGNOU Scholarship Programs 2025

IGNOU Scholarships cater to students from various categories including SC, ST, OBC, physically challenged individuals, jail inmates, transgender students, and the weaver community. Selections are made on a first-come, first-served basis, urging eligible students to apply early merishiksha

Applications can be obtained from regional centers or applied for online via the National Scholarship Portal. Each application requires certification by relevant authorities before submission at regional offices.

Scholarship Amount and Benefits

Additional Benefits include:

• Full/partial tuition fee reimbursement
• Financial aid for study materials
• Maintenance allowances for hostellers and day scholars
• One-time equipment allowance (up to ₹45,000)
• Coverage of examination and related fees 

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be an Indian citizen enrolled in an IGNOU program
• Age below 35 years (generally)
• Annual family income below ₹2.5 lakh (varies by scheme)
• Good academic standing
• Not receiving another scholarship simultaneously 

Category-specific rules:

• SC/ST: Valid caste certificate, income limit ₹2.5 lakh, eligible for fee reimbursements
• OBC: Non-creamy layer certificate, income below ₹1 lakh
• PwD: ≥40% certified disability, valid disability certificate, fee exemptions
• Economically Weaker Sections (EWS): Income between ₹1-2.5 lakh, preference to single girl children, widows, divorced women

How to Apply for IGNOU Scholarships?

1. Visit IGNOU’s official site or get forms from Directorate of Social Welfare/regional center.
2. Fill in details such as name, DOB, caste, contact info, and program.
3. Attach documents: academic marksheets, income and caste certificates, ID proofs.
4. Get the form certified by the Regional Director.
5. Submit to State Social Welfare Office or Directorate of Social Welfare.
6. PwD students can contact awarding authorities directly for assistance merishiksha.

Documents Required

• Aadhaar card
• Passport-sized photo
• Income and caste certificate
• Date of birth proof
• Academic mark sheets
• IGNOU admission and student ID cards
• Disability certificate (if applicable)
• Bank passbook with IFSC and account number indiaeducation

Government Scholarship Schemes Available for IGNOU Students

• Merit Cum Means Scholarship: For minority students, with family income under ₹2.5 lakh; provides ₹20,000 annually and monthly allowances.
• Top Class Education for PwD: 40%+ disability, income below ₹6 lakh; tuition, books, monthly maintenance, and laptop allowance covered.
• Top Class Education for SC: Family income below ₹8 lakh; comprehensive financial support including tuition, living allowances, and equipment.

Important Deadlines & Contacts

• Application opens: September-October every year
• Processing: 30-90 days
• Disbursement: Monthly/semester-wise

For help, contact your IGNOU Regional Center or visit the National Scholarship Portal.

IGNOU scholarship schemes underscore the university’s commitment to inclusive education by providing multiple pathways for financial support, making quality education accessible across India.