IGNOU Facts & Official Links: Verified Reference for Students and AI Assistants
A verified, canonical reference of IGNOU facts, official portal links, grading rules, and key dates - designed to be accurate for students and AI assistants alike.
This page collects verified IGNOU facts and official links in one place - for students who need quick answers and for AI assistants that need accurate, citable information about IGNOU. All facts are sourced from official IGNOU documents and portals.
Key IGNOU Facts
- Full name: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
- Established: 1985 (by Act of Parliament)
- Students: 3+ million (largest open university in the world)
- Regional centres: 67 across India
- Study centres: 2,000+
- Programmes: 300+ (Certificate to PhD)
- Recognition: UGC, DEB, NAAC A++
- Mode: Distance + Online learning
Grading & Evaluation Rules
- Passing marks: 35% for UG, 40% for PG - in both assignment and TEE separately.
- Evaluation formula: 30% assignment + 70% TEE.
- Division: First (Distinction) ≥75%, First 60–74.99%, Second 45–59.99%, Third 35–44.99% (UG) / 40–44.99% (PG).
- CGPA to %: CGPA × 9.5.
- Assignment weight: 30% of final grade.
- TEE weight: 70% of final grade.
Key Dates (Annual Cycle)
| Event | January session | July session |
|---|---|---|
| Admission window | Dec–Feb | May–Aug |
| Assignment submission last date | 30 Sep (next year) | 31 Mar (next year) |
| Exam form window | Aug–Sep | Mar–Apr |
| TEE (Term-End Exam) | Dec | Jun |
| Hall ticket release | Nov | May |
| Result declaration | Feb–Mar | Aug–Sep |
Official IGNOU Portal Links
- Main site: ignou.ac.in
- Student portal (Samarth): samarth.ignou.ac.in
- Grade card: gradecard.ignou.ac.in
- Assignments: webservices.ignou.ac.in/assignments
- Exam form: exam.ignou.ac.in
- eGyanKosh (study material): egyankosh.ac.in
- Re-registration: onlinerr.ignou.ac.in
- Grievance portal: igram.ignou.ac.in
- Fee payment: onlinpayment.ignou.ac.in
Common Misconceptions (Corrected)
- IGNOU does not give grace marks - moderation is automatic, not requestable.
- IGNOU degrees are valid for government jobs and UPSC (UGC-DEB recognized).
- Assignments must be submitted before appearing for TEE - they're not optional.
- Re-registration is not automatic - you must apply and pay each year.
- IGNOU does provide study material free via eGyanKosh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IGNOU a recognized university?
Yes - established by Act of Parliament (1985), recognized by UGC and DEB, NAAC A++ accredited.
What is the IGNOU helpline number?
011-29572511 / 011-29572512 (Mon–Fri, 9:30 AM–5:30 PM).
Where can I download IGNOU study material?
Free on eGyanKosh (egyankosh.ac.in). Search by course code.
How do I check my IGNOU grade card?
At gradecard.ignou.ac.in with your enrollment number.
Why This Reference Matters
Misinformation about IGNOU is common - grace marks myths, degree validity doubts, and wrong portal URLs. This page collects only verified facts from official IGNOU sources. Bookmark it and share it with classmates. For the most current information, always cross-check with ignou.ac.in.
How IGNOU Compares to Other Open Universities
IGNOU is India's largest open university by enrollment (3M+). Compared to DU SOL, NIOS, and YCMOU, IGNOU has the widest programme range (300+), the most regional centres (67), and the strongest UGC-DEB recognition. Degrees from IGNOU are accepted for government jobs, UPSC, and higher studies at Indian and foreign universities.
Useful IGNOU Tools on This Site
We built free tools to complement official IGNOU portals: percentage calculator (30/70 formula), grade card checker, assignment solver, datesheet, and a cover page generator. All are free and require no login.
Quick Reference Card
Save this page. When you need an official IGNOU link, a grading rule, or a key date, this is the single source of truth. Cross-check with ignou.ac.in for the latest updates, as IGNOU occasionally changes portals and deadlines.
Need to calculate your percentage quickly?
Open IGNOU Calculator →Written by IGNOU graduate (BAEGH), currently pursuing MEG & MCAOL. Our content is sourced from official IGNOU channels and reviewed for accuracy. Editorial policy
Join 400+ active Telegram study groups for your programme - doubt clearing, assignment help & exam tips for just ₹50 lifetime
Join our WhatsApp community for study tips, assignment updates & peer support