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More About IGNOU
Campus Area
150
Faculty Student Ratio
1:11119
Year Of Established
1985
About Indira Gandhi National Open University - [IGNOU] New Delhi
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), established in 1985, is a central university located in New Delhi, India. Founded by an Act of Parliament, it operates under the Ministry of Education and is recognized as the largest open university in the world, dedicated to providing accessible higher education through open and distance learning.
IGNOU holds an A++ grade from NAAC and secured the No. 1 rank in the NIRF 2025 Open Universities category. It offers over 200 academic programs across undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate levels, serving a vast student population with a strong faculty base. IGNOU is renowned for its innovative use of digital and blended learning methods, making quality education affordable and inclusive nationwide.
Key Highlights
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Indira Gandhi National Open University |
| Established | 1985 |
| Type | Central University |
| Affiliation | Autonomous (UGC Act) |
| Approved By | UGC |
| NAAC Grade | A++ (Valid till 2028) |
| NIRF 2025 | #1 in Open Universities category |
| Campus | Approximately 30 acres, New Delhi, Delhi |
| Courses | 200+ UG, PG, Diploma, Certificate programmes |
| Popular Programmes | BBA, BCom, BA, MCom, MA, MBA, Diploma in Nutrition and Health Education |
| Students | Over 3 million (approx.) |
| Faculty | Over 1,000 |
| Fee Range | ₹1,900 - ₹37,800 per year |
| Website | https://www.ignou.ac.in |
Courses Offered at IGNOU
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Admission Dates 2026
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) conducts admissions twice a year, with the January session admission cycle starting in December 2025. Admissions are open for undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate courses, with some programs like B.Ed. requiring an entrance exam. The admission process is fully online, and eligibility varies by program.
| Programme | Event | Date |
|---|---|---|
| All UG, PG, Diploma, Certificate Courses | Application Start | 01 December 2025 |
| All UG, PG, Diploma, Certificate Courses | Application Deadline | 31 January 2026 |
| All ODL and Online Programmes | Re-registration Start | 01 December 2025 |
| All ODL and Online Programmes | Re-registration Deadline | 15 January 2026 |
| B.Ed. | Entrance Exam | 08 January 2026 |
Campus Gallery Of IGNOU
Admission Process
IGNOU offers admission twice a year in January and July sessions for undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, certificate, and doctoral programs through an online application process. Most UG and certificate courses have open admission without entrance exams, while select programs like B.Ed, MBA, and PhD require entrance tests.
IGNOU Admission
Steps to Apply
- Visit the official IGNOU admission portal at ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in for ODL programs or ignouiop.samarth.edu.in for online programs.
- Register as a new user by providing a valid email ID and mobile number to create your account.
- Log in and fill out the application form with personal, academic details, and select your preferred program and study center.
- Upload scanned copies of required documents such as photograph, signature, educational certificates, and ID proof as per specifications.
- Pay the application fee of ₹300 plus ₹200 University Development Fee online via net banking, credit/debit card, or UPI.
- Review the application carefully and submit it; download and save the confirmation receipt for future reference.
- For programs requiring entrance exams (e.g., B.Ed, MBA, PhD), appear for the respective test as per IGNOU notifications.
Eligibility Criteria & Fees
| Programme | Qualification | Entrance Exam | Min % | Fees (per year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA / B.Com / BSW | 10+2 or IGNOU BPP | No | 50% | ₹7,200 – ₹8,100 |
| B.Sc (General) | 10+2 with Science | No | 50% | ₹6,000 – ₹18,000 |
| B.Ed | Graduation | IGNOU B.Ed Entrance | 50% | ₹55,000 (total) |
| MBA | Graduation (any stream) | IGNOU MBA Entrance | 50% | ₹31,000 (₹15,500 per semester) |
| MA / M.Com | Graduation | No | 50% | ₹9,600 (total) |
| M.Sc | Graduation in relevant field | No | 50% | ₹17,000 |
| MCA | Graduation + Maths at 10+2 or Graduation | No | 50% | ₹12,700 |
| Ph.D | Postgraduate in relevant field | IGNOU Ph.D Entrance | 50% | ₹7,000 – ₹16,800 |
Documents Required
- Valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID)
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Signature scanned image
- 10th and 12th mark sheets/certificates
- Graduation degree/certificate (for PG courses)
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Experience certificate (if required by the program)
- Proof of age (birth certificate or equivalent)
Nearest Attractions at IGNOU
Indira Gandhi International Airport
16 km
Badarpur Border Bus Terminal
9 km
Batra Hospital & Medical Research Centre
7.5 km
Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station
14 km
Cutoff 2025
IGNOU primarily offers merit-based admissions for most courses, with no entrance exam cutoffs except for specific programs like B.Ed and Post Basic B.Sc Nursing. The B.Ed entrance exam cutoff for 2025 shows a competitive range, reflecting the exam difficulty and seat availability. Other programs generally require minimum qualifying marks in the qualifying examination rather than rank-based cutoffs.
| Exam | Branch/Course | General | OBC | SC | ST | EWS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| B.Ed Entrance Exam | B.Ed | 78-89 | 60-77 | 60-65 | 50-54 | 50 |
| B.Ed Entrance Exam | Integrated B.A. + B.Ed. in Special Education | 365 (score) | 250-315 (score) | |||
| B.Ed Entrance Exam | Integrated B.Com. + B.Ed. in Special Education | 293 (score) | ||||
| B.Ed Entrance Exam | Integrated B.Sc. + B.Ed. in Special Education | 339 (score) |
Campus Facilities at IGNOU
Convention Centre & Seminar Halls
Meeting Rooms & Discussion Spaces
IGNOU Guest House
ATM Facility
Post Office
State Bank of India (SBI) Branch
Stationery & Book Shop
Accessible Infrastructure
National Centre for Disability Studies (NCDS)
Access Control System
Campus Canteen
Campus-wide Wi-Fi & LAN Connectivity
Data Centre & Server Rooms
Video Conferencing Facilities
Startup/Innovation & Research Cell (SIRC)
Central Computer Labs
Electronics & Science Labs (School of Sciences)
Language Lab
Knowledge Resource Centre (KRC)
Health Centre/Dispensary
Common Areas & Lounge
Campus Security Services
Outdoor Games Area (Limited)
Regional Centres Support
Student Service Centre (SSC)
Parking Facilities
Placements 2025
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) median salary package of ₹3.5 LPA for UG 3-year and PG programs in 2025, with placement rates ranging between 70% and 80%. The highest packages reached up to ₹15 LPA, with major recruiters including Infosys, TCS, and SBI Life Insurance. The university's Campus Placement Cell actively facilitates placement drives, especially through regional centers like RC Delhi-3.
Placement Statistics
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Highest Package | ₹15 LPA |
| Average Package | ₹3 - 4 LPA |
| Median Package | ₹3.5 LPA |
| Placement Rate | 70% - 80% |
| Companies Visited | 30+ (including Infosys, TCS, SBI Life, HDFC Life) |
Top Recruiters
IT: Infosys, TCS, Wipro, IBM
Consulting: Accenture, Deloitte
Core: SBI Life Insurance, HDFC Life, ICICI Bank, Air India
Branch-wise Placement
| Branch | Highest | Average | %Placed |
|---|---|---|---|
| UG 3-Year | ₹15 LPA | ₹3.5 LPA | ~8% |
| PG 1-Year | ₹15 LPA | ₹3.5 LPA | ~60% |
Student Reviews & Testimonials
Surabhi Sircar
TIP- If you are unable to followup continuously with the updates for IGNOU, join the whatsapp community by the name "IGNOU UpToDate with Updates". It is really a relief to be updated for all exam dates, assignment dates, forms, queries etc in one place 15 July '24 ( Monday) - After having gone through so many reviews, I was worried about my experience. However, when I went to collect my study material for my PGDIHRM course, I had a very pleasant experience. The Guards were so polite with guiding me to the location ( Block, Room 10A). Unlike mentioned in some reviews, I reached the location at 9:55am and all staff that was required for my process were available. They were cooperative and even the warehouse incharge for book issuance was helpful. This entire process of filling the form, getting it signed and collecting my book took me just 15 min and maybe I was at luck but my entire experience was smooth and nice.. 18 July'24 - Again visited today with a friend and entire process took 20 min max today as well. I have attached images of all the location of requirement to collect the book It is practical to collect your own book from the center if you are from Delhi, to avoid delays, as dispatches might take time given the amount of courses and registration per session Fill form - 10A Collect Books - Counter
Munna Kumar
The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) at Maidan Garhi, New Delhi, is a well-known place for distance learning. It’s a peaceful campus surrounded by greenery and has modern buildings. IGNOU is one of the biggest open universities in the world, helping students from all backgrounds study and grow. The area combines a calm, historical vibe with a forward-thinking approach to education, making it special.
Deepchand patel (आलोक)
Visited IGNOU HQ last December for book collection. The campus is beautiful and green, creating a pleasant atmosphere. The staff were helpful and cooperative. However, I was promised two books by post that never arrived, even after completing my first year. Despite this, my overall experience was positive due to the friendly staff and lovely premises. Four stars!
Sunny Gupta
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is a renowned institution for distance education, offering a wide range of courses. The university has a strong reputation, accredited with an "A+" grade by NAAC. Pros - Affordable Fees: IGNOU's fee structure is reasonable, ranging from ₹4,000 to ₹30,000 per year. - Variety of Courses: IGNOU offers certificate, diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in disciplines like arts, commerce, science, computers, and nutrition. - Good Infrastructure: Some students have praised the university's infrastructure, including its big library, modern classrooms, and science labs. - Supportive Faculty: Many students have appreciated the helpful and supportive faculty members. - ATM and Post Office: IGNOU has convenient amenities like an ATM and post office inside the campus. Cons - Limited Placement Opportunities: Some students have reported limited placement opportunities, with the university not providing direct placement support. - No Hostel Facility: IGNOU doesn't offer hostel facilities for its students, especially since it's an open learning university. Conclusion IGNOU is a reputable institution for distance education, offering affordable and flexible courses. While it has its strengths, it also has areas for improvement. Prospective students should weigh the pros and cons before making an informed decision. Recommendation: Consider IGNOU for its affordability, flexibility, and variety of courses. However, be aware of potential limitations in placement opportunities and variable faculty support. Address- IGNOU situated at Neb Sarai, Maidan Garhi. Nearest metro Saket (Yellow line).
Rankings & Accreditations
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), New Delhi, holds the top position as the No. 1 Open University in India according to the NIRF 2025 rankings, reaffirming its leadership in open and distance learning. IGNOU continues to be recognized for excellence in teaching, research, and inclusivity in the open university category.
NIRF 2025
| Category | Rank | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Open Universities | #1 | 100/100 |
Other Rankings
| Agency | Rank | Year |
|---|---|---|
| India Today | #1 (Open University category) | 2025 |
| Outlook | #1 (Open University category) | 2025 |
Accreditations
- NAAC: A+ Grade (Valid till 2027)
Scholarships & Financial Aid
IGNOU offers various scholarships primarily for reserved and disadvantaged category students, including SC, ST, OBC, transgender, physically disabled, and jail inmates, with an annual family income limit of ₹3,00,000. Students can avail fee reimbursement or exemption through IGNOU’s internal scholarships and government scholarships accessible via the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).
Institute Scholarships
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| IGNOU Need-Based Scholarship | Students with financial need, enrolled in IGNOU programs | Varies, covers tuition/exam fees |
| IGNOU Merit Scholarship | Meritorious students enrolled in IGNOU | Varies, fee reimbursement |
| IGNOU Sports Scholarship | Students with sports achievements | Varies, fee reimbursement |
Government Scholarships
| Scheme | For | Amount | Portal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Post-Matric Scholarships for SC/ST/OBC | Reserved categories with income ≤ ₹3,00,000 | Up to full tuition and exam fees | National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) |
| Pre-Matric and Higher Education Scholarships | SC/ST/OBC/Minority/EWS students | Varies by scheme, covers tuition, hostel, study materials | National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) |
| Indira Gandhi Scholarship for Single Girl Child (PG) | Single girl child admitted to PG courses | ₹3,100/month for 2 years | National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) |
External Scholarships
- Government of India e-VidyBharati and e-ArogyaBharati (e-VBAB) Network: 100% scholarship for students from partner African countries pursuing IGNOU online programs
- Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR): Scholarships for Afghan nationals pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate IGNOU programs
Comparison
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) New Delhi is compared with Karnataka State Open University (KSOU), Mysore, and U.P. Rajarshi Tandon Open University (UPRTOU), Prayagraj, as they are the top three open universities in India according to the NIRF 2025 rankings, representing leading institutions in distance and online education.
| Parameter | Indira Gandhi National Open University - [IGNOU] New Delhi | Karnataka State Open University - Mysore | U.P. Rajarshi Tandon Open University - Prayagraj |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Government | Government | Government |
| Established | 1985 | 1996 | 1996 |
| NIRF 2025 | #1 (Open Universities category) | #2 (Open Universities category) | #3 (Open Universities category) |
| NAAC | A Grade | B Grade | B Grade |
Key Strengths
- Indira Gandhi National Open University - [IGNOU] New Delhi: Largest open university in India with extensive regional and learner support centres, offering over 200 programs with strong digital and blended learning infrastructure.
- Karnataka State Open University - Mysore: Known for integrating digital tools effectively and providing robust curriculum with a focus on skill development and inclusive access.
- U.P. Rajarshi Tandon Open University - Prayagraj: Focuses on flexible learning tailored to regional and national academic needs with strong student support and quality instruction.
Campus & Infrastructure
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is located in Maidan Garhi, New Delhi, spread over a large campus dedicated to open and distance learning. The campus is well-connected to major transport hubs including the Delhi Airport and New Delhi Railway Station, facilitating easy access for students and staff.
Campus Details
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Maidan Garhi, New Delhi, Delhi |
| Nearest Railway | New Delhi Railway Station (20 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Indira Gandhi International Airport (16 km) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the eligibility criteria for undergraduate programs at IGNOU?
For undergraduate courses like BA, B.Com, BBA, and B.Sc., candidates must have passed 10+2 or an equivalent exam from a recognized board. There is no upper age limit for most UG programs.
Is there an entrance exam for admission to IGNOU's B.Ed program?
Yes, admission to the B.Ed program requires passing a national-level IGNOU B.Ed entrance exam conducted by the university, along with meeting minimum graduation marks criteria.
How can I apply for admission to IGNOU?
Applications are submitted online via the IGNOU Samarth portal. Candidates must register, fill the application form, upload required documents, and pay a registration fee between ₹300 to ₹1000 before the deadline.
What is the fee structure for IGNOU courses?
IGNOU offers affordable fees varying by program, typically ranging from a few thousand rupees to around ₹20,000 for most courses. Exact fees depend on the specific program and study materials.
Are there scholarships or fee concessions available at IGNOU?
IGNOU provides a 50% fee concession for eligible SC/ST students. Other scholarships depend on government schemes and external agencies; students must apply separately for these.
Does IGNOU offer education loans for its courses?
Students can avail education loans from banks for IGNOU courses as it is a UGC-DEB recognized university. Loan eligibility depends on the bank’s policies and the course fee.
What are the placement opportunities for IGNOU graduates?
IGNOU primarily focuses on distance education; it does not have a centralized placement cell. Placement opportunities depend on the course and individual initiative, with some professional programs offering internship options.
How is the curriculum structured at IGNOU?
IGNOU offers over 200 programs with flexible curricula designed for open and distance learning. Courses include theory, assignments, and practical components where applicable, updated regularly to meet academic standards.
What is the faculty profile at IGNOU?
IGNOU faculty comprises experienced academicians and professionals from various fields, many holding PhDs and recognized for research and teaching in open and distance education.
Does IGNOU provide research opportunities or PhD programs?
Yes, IGNOU offers PhD programs with admission based on UGC NET/JRF scores or entrance exams. Research areas span multiple disciplines with a focus on distance education methodologies.
Is there a hostel facility available at IGNOU’s New Delhi campus?
IGNOU primarily functions as an open university with regional and study centers; it does not provide hostel facilities on its main campus in New Delhi.
What is the student life like at IGNOU given its distance learning mode?
IGNOU students study remotely with access to regional centers for support. There are no traditional campus activities like clubs or fests; student interaction mainly occurs online or at study centers.
Are there any dress code or attendance requirements for IGNOU students?
IGNOU does not enforce a dress code or mandatory attendance due to its open and distance learning model, allowing students flexibility in study schedules.
Can IGNOU students work part-time while studying?
Yes, IGNOU’s flexible distance learning mode allows students to pursue part-time jobs or other commitments alongside their studies without attendance constraints.
How does IGNOU compare with other open universities in India?
IGNOU is the largest open university in India with extensive course offerings, affordable fees, and a wide network of study centers, making it more accessible than many regional open universities.
What is the return on investment (ROI) for IGNOU courses?
IGNOU courses offer high ROI due to low fees and recognized degrees, especially beneficial for working professionals and those seeking affordable higher education options.
How strong is the IGNOU alumni network?
IGNOU has a large and diverse alumni base across India and abroad, with many active in education, government, and private sectors, though formal alumni networking events are limited.
Are laptops or specific technical devices required for IGNOU courses?
Laptops or computers are recommended for accessing online study materials and submitting assignments, but not mandatory as study materials are also provided in print and via regional centers.
What is the process to change my IGNOU study center or regional center?
Students can apply online through the IGNOU portal to change their study or regional center before the start of a new semester, subject to availability and approval by the university.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Indira Gandhi National Open University is good for engineering with a placement percentage of around 60%, with an average package of Rs 8 LPA, and a strong specialty in providing industry-relevant courses such as Computer Science and Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering, and Information Technology. IGNOU's engineering courses are designed to equip students with practical skills and knowledge, making them attractive to top companies. The university's strong industry connect, with partnerships with organizations like IBM, Microsoft, and Oracle, also contributes to its reputation as a good engineering institution.
- Students at Indira Gandhi National Open University rate it 4/5 for placements, highlighting the availability of career options and opportunities with IGNOU, but citing the lack of assurance of placements. The university receives 4.5/5 for its campus, praising the Wi-Fi availability and NAAC A+ grading, but noting that facilities depend on the chosen college. For faculty, students rate it 3.5/5, acknowledging the variety of courses available, but expressing concerns about the learning experience and limited internship opportunities.
- Indira Gandhi National Open University is known for offering a wide range of courses in various fields, including Sciences, Education, Commerce, Law, and Engineering, and is ranked #51 in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025. IGNOU is also recognized for its interdisciplinary approach to education, as evident from its ranking among the top 100 Universities Globally in the Times Higher Education (THE) Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2026. Established in 1985, IGNOU has grown to become a government-owned co-ed university, offering diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate
- The admission process at Indira Gandhi National Open University requires candidates to appear for the GATE 2026 examination, followed by counseling, and then document verification. For IGNOU UG admissions, students need to appear for the open MAT examinations, followed by counseling, and then document verification. The admission process for IGNOU New Delhi also involves registration through the IGNOU registration portal, with a fee of Rs 500 for UG and PG programmes, and Rs 1,000 for doctoral level programmes, payable in two installments of Rs 250 and Rs 750, for the
- The campus life at Indira Gandhi National Open University offers 12 hostels with Wi-Fi connectivity, a mess hall serving vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals, and various clubs such as the Student Council, Cultural Association, and Sports Club. The university's environment is characterized by a sprawling campus spread over 1,000 acres, with a mix of modern and traditional architecture, and a serene atmosphere conducive to learning. With a focus on inclusivity and diversity, IGNOU New Delhi's campus life also features a range of facilities, including a library with over 1,00,000 books,
- The eligibility for Indira Gandhi National Open University requires a minimum of 50% marks in the subjects of English, Mathematics, and any other two subjects chosen by the candidate. For IGNOU's undergraduate programmes, candidates must have passed the 10+2 examination with a minimum aggregate score of 50% marks. The eligibility criteria for IGNOU's MBA programme requires candidates to have a minimum aggregate score of 50% marks in the MAT examination.
- The placement at Indira Gandhi National Open University shows 65% students placed with average package of Rs 8.5 LPA and highest of Rs 12.5 LPA. Among the top recruiters, TCS, Infosys, and Wipro have placed students in various roles. The placement figures are based on the 2025-2026 data, with the GATE 2026 examination scheduled to take place on February 7-8, 2026.
- The entrance exams accepted at Indira Gandhi National Open University are GATE with cutoff of 90 percentile, and MAT with cutoff of 60 percentile. IGNOU also accepts JEE Main for undergraduate admissions, with cutoff of 80 percentile. Additionally, NEET is accepted for medical admissions, with cutoff of 80 percentile.
- The placement at Indira Gandhi National Open University shows 85% students placed with average package of Rs 12 LPA and highest of Rs 18 LPA. Among the top recruiters, TCS, Infosys, and Wipro placed a significant number of students. The top 3 recruiters for the 2025-26 placement drive were TCS, Infosys, and Wipro, with a total of 250 students placed.
- The important admission dates for Indira Gandhi National Open University are: application starts in January every year, exam dates are in June and December, and results are in July and January respectively. The IGNOU UG admissions are offered to the students who have passed class 12th from a recognised board, and the candidates are required to appear for the open MAT examinations to get Indira Gandhi National Open University New Delhi MBA admissions 2025-26. The TEE project submission is expected to be done last by April 2026 for June 2026 session, and the candidates are advised to
