IGNOU Term-End Exam Pattern 2026: Question Types, Marks & Duration

Understanding the IGNOU Term-End Exam pattern is essential for effective preparation. Knowing how questions are structured, how marks are distributed, and what examiners expect helps you prepare strategically. This guide breaks down the IGNOU TEE exam pattern for 2026.

IGNOU TEE Exam Pattern Overview

• Exam type: Descriptive (written answers, not MCQs)
• Duration: 3 hours per paper
• Total marks: Typically 100 marks per paper (some courses have 50 or 70 marks)
• Medium: English or Hindi (depending on your programme and course)
• Sessions: Morning (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM) and Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

Question Types in IGNOU TEE

Section A — Short Notes / Short Answer Questions

• Marks: 2–5 marks each
• Word limit: 100–300 words
• Number: Typically 5–10 questions
• Compulsory: Usually all questions in Section A are compulsory
• Content: Definitions, short explanations, list-based answers, identify and explain

Section B — Long Answer Questions

• Marks: 10–20 marks each
• Word limit: 500–1200 words
• Number: 4–6 questions with internal choice (attempt 2–3 out of 4–6)
• Content: Detailed explanations, critical analysis, comparisons, essay-type answers

Section C (if applicable) — Analytical / Case Study Questions

• Marks: 15–20 marks
• Format: Case study analysis, problem-solving, or application-based questions
• Common in: MBA, MCom, BCA, MCA programmes

Marks Distribution

A typical IGNOU TEE paper (100 marks) follows this distribution:

• Section A: 20–30 marks (short notes)
• Section B: 50–60 marks (long answers)
• Section C: 10–20 marks (analytical/case study, if applicable)

The exact distribution varies by course. Check the specific question paper pattern for your course by reviewing previous year papers.

Passing Criteria for IGNOU TEE

To pass a course at IGNOU, you must meet both criteria:

• TEE marks: Minimum 40% (40 out of 100 for 100-mark papers)
• Assignment marks: Minimum 40% (40 out of 100)
• Combined (final): Minimum 40% using the 30/70 formula

You must pass assignments and TEE separately. Scoring 90% in assignments doesn't compensate for scoring below 40% in the TEE.

How to Prepare for Each Question Type

Preparing for Short Notes

• Make a list of key terms, concepts, and definitions from each unit
• Prepare 100–200 word answers for each
• Include a definition, 3–4 key points, and an example
• Practise writing these quickly — you should take no more than 10 minutes per short note

Preparing for Long Answers

• Identify the most important topics from each unit using previous year papers
• Prepare structured answers with introduction, body (with headings), and conclusion
• Include diagrams, examples, and case studies where relevant
• Practise writing complete long answers in 30–40 minutes

Preparing for Case Studies

• Understand the theoretical frameworks from your study material
• Practise applying theory to practical scenarios
• Structure your answer: identify the problem → analyse using theory → provide recommendations

Exam Day Strategy

1. Read the question paper (15 min): Read all questions carefully. Decide which optional questions to attempt.
2. Start with Section A (60–90 min): Answer all short notes first to secure easy marks.
3. Move to Section B (90–120 min): Answer long answers with detailed explanations.
4. Review (15 min): Check that you've attempted the correct number of questions and written your enrollment number on every sheet.

Practical Exams

For programmes with practical components (BCA, MCA, BSc, etc.), practical exams are conducted separately:

• Format: Hands-on tasks in a computer lab or science lab
• Duration: 2–3 hours depending on the course
• Conducted by: Your study centre
• Schedule: Usually before or after the theory TEE — communicated by your study centre

For complete exam preparation, use our AI Solver to practise model answers and check the datesheet for exam schedules.