IGNOU’s admissions process for January 2026, for most of its online and distance learning programs, will begin on December 15, 2025, and end on January 31, 2026. Admissions to specific programs, such as the PhD, will begin in December 2025 and end in January 2026. Applications can be submitted through the official IGNOU Smartport portal.
Indira Gandhi National Open University is India’s largest open university and provides flexible learning options for students and working professionals. You can study from home and earn a recognized degree without attending regular classes.
This guide covers everything about IGNOU Admission 2026 including important dates, eligibility criteria, fee structure and application process for both January and July sessions.
IGNOU Admission 2026 Overview
IGNOU was established in 1985 and since then it has been providing quality education to millions of students across India. The university is recognized by UGC and holds A++ NAAC grade which means your degree has the same value as regular university degrees.
The university offers more than 333 programmes in different levels like undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma and certificate courses. You can choose from popular courses like BA, BCom, BSc, MA, MBA, MCom and many more specialized programmes.
IGNOU runs two admission cycles every year – January Session and July Session. This gives you the flexibility to start your course at a time that suits you best. Whether you completed your previous qualification in November or May, you can apply for the respective session.
The best part about IGNOU is that you don’t need to quit your job or relocate to another city. Study materials are provided through printed books and online resources. You can attend weekend counseling sessions at your nearest study center.
IGNOU Admission 2026 Important Dates
Knowing the admission dates is very important because if you miss the deadline, you will have to wait for another six months. IGNOU Admission 2026 expected dates Starting from 1st of December 2025 and Last is 31st January 2025.
IGNOU Admission 2026 January Session
The January session is suitable for students who complete their 10+2 or graduation in November-December. Based on previous year patterns, here are the tentative dates:
| Event | Expected Dates |
| Application Start Date | 1st December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 31st January 2026 |
| Last Date with Late Fee | 15th February 2026 |
| Re-registration Period | 10th December 2025 to 31st January 2026 |
| Classes Start | February 2026 |
The IGNOU Admission 2026 Start Date for January session is expected in early December 2025. Students should keep checking the official website for exact date announcement.
IGNOU Admission 2026 July Session
July session is ideal for those who finish their exams in April-May. Here are the expected dates:
| Event | Expected Dates |
| Application Start Date | Dec 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 15th October 2026 |
| Re-registration Period | May to October 2026 |
| Classes Start | August 2026 |
Note: These are tentative dates based on previous admission cycles. Always check the official IGNOU website (www.ignou.ac.in) for confirmed dates and any updates.
Eligibility Criteria for IGNOU Admission 2026
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the programme you want to apply for. Here are the basic criteria:
For Undergraduate Courses (BA, BCom, BSc, BBA, BCA)
- You must pass 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board
- Minimum 50% marks required (45% for reserved categories)
- No age limit for most programmes
- Any stream students can apply (Arts, Science, Commerce)
For Postgraduate Courses (MA, MCom, MBA, MCA, MSc)
- Bachelor’s degree from UGC recognized university
- Minimum 50% marks in graduation (45% for SC/ST/OBC/PwD)
- Some courses may require relevant subject background
- Work experience may be required for certain programmes
For Diploma and Certificate Courses
- Requirements differ by programme
- Some need only 10th pass, others need graduation
- Check specific programme requirements on IGNOU website
For IGNOU BEd Admission 2026
- Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks (45% for reserved categories)
- Must qualify IGNOU BEd entrance test
- Entrance test will be conducted in February 2026
There is no age limit for most IGNOU programmes which makes it perfect for students of all ages who want to continue their education.
IGNOU Admission 2026 Fees Structure
IGNOU fees are very affordable compared to regular universities. Here is the detailed fee structure for different programmes.
Application and Registration Fees
- Regular Programmes: INR 300
- Professional Programmes (MBA, MCA): INR 500
- BEd Programme: INR 1,000
- Re-registration Fee: INR 300
Course Fees for Different Programmes
Undergraduate Programmes:
| Programme | Duration | Total Fee (Approx) |
| BA | 3 years | INR 12,000 – 14,000 |
| BCom | 3 years | INR 13,500 |
| BSc | 3 years | INR 18,000 – 21,000 |
| BBA | 3 years | INR 20,000 – 25,000 |
| BCA | 3 years | INR 45,000 – 48,000 |
Postgraduate Programmes:
| Programme | Duration | Total Fee (Approx) |
| MA | 2 years | INR 14,600 – 18,000 |
| MCom | 2 years | INR 24,000 – 30,000 |
| MBA | 2 years | INR 64,000 |
| MCA | 2 years | INR 40,000 – 50,000 |
| MSc | 2 years | INR 14,200 – 43,200 |
 IGNOU Admission 2026 Important Points:
- Fees can be paid semester-wise or year-wise
- Additional fees for exam forms (around INR 200 per exam)
- Development fee of INR 200 may apply
- Fees may vary slightly for different specializations
The exact IGNOU Admission 2026 Fees will be updated on the official website when admissions start. Always verify the current fee structure before applying.
How to Pay Fees for Ignou Admission 2026
You can pay IGNOU fees through multiple options:
- Credit Card / Debit Card
- Net Banking
- UPI Payment
- Demand Draft (for offline payment)
All online payments are processed through the secure payment gateway on IGNOU admission portal.
IGNOU Admission 2026 Application Process
Applying for IGNOU admission is simple if you follow the correct steps. Here is the complete process:
Online Application Procedure
Step 1: Visit Official Website Go to IGNOU admission portal at ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in or www.ignou.ac.in
Step 2: New Registration Click on “New Admission” or “Fresh Admission” link. If you are an existing student, use “Re-registration” option.
Step 3: Create Account
- Enter your name, email ID and mobile number
- Create username and password
- Verify through OTP sent to your mobile
- Your login details will be sent to your email
Step 4: Login and Fill Form
- Login with your username and password
- Fill all personal details carefully
- Enter your educational qualifications
- Select programme and specialization
- Choose your study center (select nearest one)
Step 5: Upload Documents Upload scanned copies of required documents in JPG or PDF format (size below 500 KB):
- Recent passport size photograph
- Signature
- 10th certificate (for age proof)
- 12th mark sheet (for UG courses)
- Graduation certificates (for PG courses)
- Category certificate if applicable
- Experience certificate if required
Step 6: Preview and Submit
- Check all details carefully
- Make sure there are no mistakes
- Click on Submit button
Step 7: Pay Application Fee
- Pay INR 300 or applicable fee amount
- Use online payment options
- Save the payment receipt
Step 8: Download Acknowledgement
- After successful payment, download the acknowledgement form
- Take printout and keep it safe
- You will receive confirmation email
Step 9: Pay Programme Fee After your application is verified, you will get instructions to pay the programme fee. Complete this step to confirm your admission.
Required Documents for IGNOU Admission
Keep these documents ready in scanned format:
- 10th Mark Sheet or Certificate
- 12th Mark Sheet (for UG admission)
- Graduation Certificate and Mark Sheets (for PG admission)
- Transfer Certificate
- Migration Certificate
- Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS)
- Disability Certificate (if applicable)
- Recent Photograph (passport size)
- Signature
Make sure all documents are clear and readable. File size should be between 100 KB to 500 KB.
Programme Specific Admission Details
IGNOU PG Admission 2026 January Session
IGNOU offers various postgraduate programmes in January session. The admission process will start from December 2025.
Popular PG programmes include:
- MA (English, Hindi, Political Science, History, Sociology, Economics, Psychology)
- MCom (Accounting, Finance, Business Management)
- MBA (HR, Marketing, Finance, Operations Management)
- MCA (Master of Computer Applications)
- MSc (Environmental Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry)
- MSW (Master of Social Work)
The last date for IGNOU PG Admission 2026 January Session is 31st January 2026. No entrance exam is required for most PG programmes except PhD.
IGNOU MA Admission 2026 January Session
MA programmes at IGNOU are available in more than 15 subjects. The IGNOU MA Admission 2026 January Session will open in December 2025.
MA Subjects Available:
- English, Hindi, Sanskrit, Urdu
- Political Science, History, Sociology
- Economics, Public Administration
- Philosophy, Psychology
- and more
MA programme duration is 2 years minimum and 4 years maximum. Total fees for MA ranges from INR 7,300 to INR 9,000 per year depending on the subject.
IGNOU MBA Admission 2026 January Session
IGNOU offers MBA programme for working professionals who want to pursue management education without leaving their job.
MBA Specializations:
- Human Resource Management
- Marketing Management
- Financial Management
- Operations Management
- Information Systems Management
For IGNOU MBA Admission 2026 January Session:
- Last date to apply: 31st January 2026
- Total fee: INR 64,000 (for 2 years)
- No entrance exam required
- Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks needed
IGNOU MBA is recognized by UGC and is suitable for career advancement.
IGNOU BEd Admission 2026 January Session
BEd programme at IGNOU requires entrance test. This 2-year programme is essential for becoming a teacher.
Important points for IGNOU BEd Admission 2026 January Session:
- Application last date: 31st January 2026
- Entrance test date: 28th February 2026
- Application fee: INR 1,000
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with 50% marks
- Admission based on entrance test performance
The BEd entrance test registration will start in November 2025. Students should prepare for the entrance exam after applying.
How to Check IGNOU Admission 2026 Status
After submitting your application, you can check your admission status online.
Steps to Check Admission Status
Method 1: Through ISMS Portal
- Visit isms.ignou.ac.in
- Enter your enrollment number
- Enter programme code
- Submit and check status
Method 2: Through SMS/Email IGNOU sends confirmation through email and SMS to your registered contact details.
Understanding Admission Status
- Confirmed: Your admission is successful
- Pending: Documents are under verification
- Rejected: Some issue with application or documents
- Payment Pending: Complete your fee payment
If your status shows pending for more than 30 days, contact your regional center or call IGNOU helpline at 011-29571301.
IGNOU Grade Card Download
Current IGNOU students need their grade card to check examination results.
How to Download IGNOU Grade Card
- Go to IGNOU official website
- Click on Student Zone
- Select Grade Card option
- Enter enrollment number and date of birth
- Download your grade card
Grade cards are usually available 45 days after term-end examinations. You need the grade card for re-registration and job applications.
Study Material for IGNOU Students
IGNOU provides study materials in both printed and digital formats.
Printed Material: After admission confirmation, study books will be sent to your address through speed post. It takes 2-4 weeks to receive the books.
Digital Material:
- Visit eGyanKosh portal (egyankosh.ac.in)
- Download study materials in PDF format
- Access video lectures on IGNOU YouTube channel
- Listen to audio lectures on Gyan Vani radio
You can also use IGNOU mobile app to access digital study materials anytime.
Important Points to Remember
Common Mistakes to Avoid
During Application:
- Don’t upload unclear or oversized documents
- Don’t use wrong email ID or mobile number
- Don’t select wrong study center (difficult to change later)
- Don’t skip reading programme prospectus
- Don’t apply without checking eligibility
After Admission:
- Don’t miss fee payment deadlines
- Don’t ignore emails from IGNOU
- Don’t forget re-registration dates
- Don’t submit assignments late (30% weightage in final marks)
- Don’t skip exam form submission
Tips for Successful Admission
- Apply early and don’t wait for last date. Website gets slow near deadline.
- Keep all documents ready before starting application. Scan them in proper format.
- Check eligibility requirements twice before applying.
- Save copies of all receipts, acknowledgements and emails.
- Choose study center that is convenient for you to attend counseling sessions.
- Download programme prospectus from IGNOU website and read it completely.
- Join IGNOU student groups on social media for updates and help.
- Note down important dates in calendar – assignment submission, exam forms, re-registration.
What Happens After Admission
Once your admission is confirmed:
- Enrollment number will be sent via email and SMS
- Study materials dispatched within 2-4 weeks
- Online materials available immediately on IGNOU app
- Study center will inform about counseling schedule
- Submit assignments before exam form submission
- Register for exams separately when form opens
Re-registration Information
If you are an existing IGNOU student, re-registration is mandatory to continue studies.
Re-registration for January 2026 session:
- Start date: 10th December 2025
- Last date: 31st January 2026
- Fee: INR 300
Important: Don’t wait for previous semester results before re-registering. If you skip re-registration, you will have to wait six months for next cycle.
Last Date of IGNOU Admission 2025
Many students ask about Last Date of IGNOU Admission 2025 for January 2026 session. The last date was 31st October 2025 with late fee of INR 200.
If you missed the 2025 deadline, you can apply when fresh admissions open in December 2025 for the January 2026 session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the last date of IGNOU admission 2026?
The IGNOU Admission 2026 Last Date for January session is 31st January 2026. For July session, last date is usually 15th October 2026. These dates may be extended with late fee.
Q2. When will IGNOU admission 2026 start?
The IGNOU Admission 2026 Start Date for January session is expected in early December 2025. The admission portal will remain open for about two months.
Q3. How much is IGNOU admission 2026 fees?
IGNOU Admission 2026 Fees varies by programme. Application fee is INR 300 for regular programmes. Course fees range from INR 5,000 to INR 32,000 per year depending on the programme you choose.
Q4. Can I apply for both January and July sessions?
No, you cannot apply for same programme in both sessions at the same time. But if you miss one session, you can apply for next session. You can pursue two different programmes in different sessions if eligible.
Q5. How to check IGNOU admission status?
Visit isms.ignou.ac.in and enter your enrollment number and programme code to check admission status. IGNOU also sends confirmation via email and SMS.
Q6. What was the last date of IGNOU admission 2025?
The Last Date of IGNOU Admission 2025 for January 2026 session was 31st October 2025 with late fee. If you missed this, apply when new admissions start in December 2025.
Q7. When is IGNOU admission date January 2026?
The IGNOU Admission Date January 2026 will start from 1st December 2025 and continue till 31st January 2026. Check official website for exact dates.
Q8. What is IGNOU admission June 2026 last date?
For July session, the IGNOU Admission June 2026 Last Date is typically 15th October 2026. July session admissions usually begin in May 2026.
Conclusion
IGNOU Admission 2026 provides opportunity for quality higher education through distance mode. Whether you want to apply for IGNOU Admission 2026 January Session or July session, the process is simple.
Key points to remember:
- IGNOU Admission 2026 Last Date for January session is 31st January 2026
- Application fee is INR 300 for most programmes
- You can study while continuing your job
- IGNOU degrees are UGC recognized and hold same value as regular degrees
- More than 333 programmes available
Don’t miss this opportunity. Keep checking official IGNOU website for exact dates when IGNOU Admission 2026 Start Date is announced in December 2025.
Whether you are interested in IGNOU PG Admission 2026 January Session, IGNOU MA Admission 2026 January Session, IGNOU MBA Admission 2026 January Session or IGNOU BEd Admission 2026 January Session, there is a programme for everyone.
For latest and accurate information, always visit official IGNOU website at www.ignou.ac.in or admission portal at ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in. You can contact IGNOU student support at csrc@ignou.ac.in or call 011-29571301 for any queries.
Start your educational journey with IGNOU today and achieve your career goals.
Note: All dates and fees mentioned in this article are tentative based on previous year patterns. Please verify all information from official IGNOU website before applying. The university can change dates, fees and admission procedures without prior notice.
