About IGNOU: India's Largest Open University — Programmes, Admission, Fees & Student Guide
Everything about IGNOU — Indira Gandhi National Open University history, programmes offered, fee structure, study centres, distance learning model, and student support resources.
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is the world's largest open university by student enrollment, serving over 4 million students across India and 30+ countries. Established in 1985 by an Act of Parliament, IGNOU democratized higher education by making it accessible to anyone — regardless of age, location, or financial background. This guide covers everything you need to know about IGNOU.
History and Mission
IGNOU was established on September 20, 1985, by the Government of India under the Indira Gandhi National Open University Act, 1985. Named after former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the university was created with a clear mission: to increase access to higher education for all segments of society, especially disadvantaged groups, through open and distance learning.
Today, IGNOU operates through 67 regional centres, 2,667 study centres, and 29 overseas centres across Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
Programmes Offered by IGNOU
IGNOU offers over 200 academic programmes across multiple levels:
- Certificate programmes: 6 months to 2 years — skill development and vocational training
- Diploma programmes: 1–2 years — specialized professional training
- Bachelor's degree programmes: 3–5 years — BAG, BCA, BCOMG, BSW, BTS, BLIS, and more
- Master's degree programmes: 2 years — MEG, MBA, MCA, MPS, MSO, MAH, MCOM, MLIS, and more
- PG Diploma programmes: 1 year — post-graduate specializations
- PhD programmes: 3–5 years — doctoral research
- Non-credit programmes: Awareness and community-oriented courses
Most Popular IGNOU Programmes
Some of IGNOU's most enrolled programmes include:
- BAG (Bachelor of Arts General): The most popular IGNOU programme with the widest range of elective courses
- BCA (Bachelor of Computer Applications): IT-focused programme popular among students seeking tech careers
- MEG (Master of English): The most popular Master's programme for literature enthusiasts
- MBA (Master of Business Administration): Open Management programme for working professionals
- BCOMG (Bachelor of Commerce): Commerce degree for students pursuing accounting and finance
IGNOU Fee Structure
IGNOU is one of the most affordable universities in India. Approximate annual fees for popular programmes:
- BAG: ₹4,000–₹8,000 per year
- BCA: ₹15,000–₹20,000 per semester
- MEG: ₹7,000–₹12,000 per year
- MBA: ₹15,000–₹20,000 per semester
- Certificate programmes: ₹2,000–₹5,000 total
SC/ST and BPL students may be eligible for fee concessions. Check the IGNOU prospectus for exact fees.
How IGNOU Distance Learning Works
IGNOU's model combines self-study with periodic contact classes:
- Self-study materials: You receive printed books or access digital content on eGyanKosh
- Study centre counselling: Weekend or periodic face-to-face sessions at your assigned study centre
- Assignments: Submit assignments before deadlines — they carry 30% weightage
- Term-End Exams: Written exams twice a year (June and December) — they carry 70% weightage
- Practical/Project: Some programmes require practicals, projects, or dissertations
Student Support Resources
IGNOU provides multiple support channels for students:
- Study centres: Local centres for counselling, assignment submission, and exam-related queries
- Regional centres: Administrative hubs handling admissions, re-registration, and grievance resolution
- IGram: Online grievance portal for complaints — see our IGram guide
- eGyanKosh: Free digital study materials — see our eGyanKosh guide
- Student portal: Online services for admission, re-registration, exam forms, and results
And of course, IGNOU AI — the platform you're on right now. We provide an assignment hub, AI solver, grade calculator, Telegram study groups, and portal shortcuts — all in one place.