What Is the IGNOU Full Form? University History, NAAC Grade and Programmes
Part of IGNOU General Admission: IGNOU Admission 2026: Courses, Fee Structure, and Samarth Portal Process
IGNOU stands for Indira Gandhi National Open University, which is the full form of IGNOU established by an Act of Parliament in 1985. Ranked as the No. 1 Open University in NIRF, it offers 325 academic programmes.
IGNOU full form: Indira Gandhi National Open University
IGNOU stands for Indira Gandhi National Open University. It is a premier institution established by an Act of Parliament in 1985.
The university’s mission is to democratise education in India and beyond, providing inclusive and equitable access to higher education.
IGNOU university history and overview: 1985 establishment
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) was established in 1985 by an Act of Parliament. It is empowered by the IGNOU Act to provide inclusive and equitable access to higher education.
IGNOU is ranked as the No. 1 Open University in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) and holds the prestigious A++ accreditation from NAAC.
The university operates with over 69 Regional Centres, more than 2,000 Learner Support Centres across India, and 25 Overseas Study Centres in 15 countries.
IGNOU offers 325 programmes, including Four-Year Undergraduate Programmes (FYUP) and skill-based courses, aligning with the National Education Policy 2020. It also provides 45 online academic programmes through its Learning Management System (LMS).
IGNOU has been ranked among the top ten ‘Institutes of National Importance and Central Universities’ for promoting entrepreneurship and innovation, and within the 151-300 range of overall rankings in the NIRF-Innovation rating-2023.
IGNOU academic programmes: Master’s Degrees and New Launches
IGNOU offers a wide range of academic programmes, including Master’s Degree Programmes and various newly launched courses. These programmes are delivered through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Online modes.
- Bachelor of Computer Applications (ODL) (BCA_NEW)
- Bachelor of Computer Applications (Online) (BCA_NEWOL)
- Master of Computer Applications (ODL) (MCA_NEW)
- Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications (ODL) (PGDCA_NEW)
- Post Graduate Diploma in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (ODL) (PGDDRRM)
- Post Graduate Diploma in Tribal Studies (ODL) (PGDTRBS)
- Post Graduate Diploma (Waste Management) (ODL) (PGDWAM)
- Master of Fine Arts – Painting (ODL) (MFAP)
- Master of Social Work (Online) (MSWOL)
- Qualification Pack – Nurse Manager (ODL) (QPNM)
- Master of Arts (English) (ODL) (MAEG)
- B.Sc. Fabric & Apparel Design (FYUP)(ODL) (BSCFFAD)
- Master of Arts (Sociology) (ODL) (MASO)
- Master of Science (M.Sc.) (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning) (ODL) (MSCAIML)
- Post Graduate Diploma in Industrial Safety (Online) (PGDINDSOL)
- Post Graduate Diploma in Environmental Studies (Online) (PGDEVSOL)
- Master of Tourism and Travel Management (ODL) (MTTM_NEW)
- Bachelor of Arts (Applied Skills) Tourism Management for Agniveer Defence Forces (ODL) (BTMAPS)
- Bachelor of Arts (Applied Skills) Micro Small and Medium Enterprises for ‘Agniveers’ (ODL) (BAMSAPS)
- Masters in Performing Arts – Theatre Arts (ODL) (MPATHA)
IGNOU Master’s Degree Programmes (July 2026 Prospectus)
| Programme Name | Code |
|---|---|
| Master of Commerce | MCOM |
| Master of Business Administration | MBA |
| Master of Business Administration – Human Resource Management | MBAHM |
| Master of Business Administration – Financial Management | MBAFM |
| Master of Business Administration – Operations Management | MBAOM |
| Master of Business Administration – Marketing Management | MBAMM |
| Master of Business Administration (Banking and Finance) | MBF |
| Master of Arts (English) | MAEG |
| Master of Arts (Hindi) | MAHD |
IGNOU student services
IGNOU Schools of Studies: List of Academic Departments
IGNOU operates through various Schools of Studies, each focusing on specific academic disciplines. These schools are responsible for course preparation and academic delivery.
- School of Agriculture (SOA)
- School of Continuing Education (SOCE)
- School of Computer and Information Sciences (SOCIS)
- School of Education (SOE)
- School of Extension and Development Studies (SOEDS)
- School of Engineering & Technology (SOET)
- School of Foreign Languages (SOFL)
- School of Gender and Development Studies (SOGDS)
- School of Humanities (SOH)
- School of Health Sciences (SOHS)
- School of Inter-Disciplinary and Trans-Disciplinary Studies (SOITS)
- School of Journalism and New Media Studies (SOJNMS)
- School of Law (SOL)
- School of Management Studies (SOMS)
- School of Performing and Visual Arts (SOPVA)
- School of Sciences (SOS)
- School of Social Sciences (SOSS)
- School of Social Work (SOSW)
- School of Tourism and Hospitality Service Management (SOTHSM)
- School of Translation Studies and Training (SOTST)
IGNOU Ph.D. admission: July 2026 session details and requirements
IGNOU invited applications for admission to the Ph.D. Programme for the July 2026 Session. The registration deadline for this session was 15 July 2026.
The Ph.D. Programme is offered under two categories: Full-Time and Part-Time. Candidates must attend Course Work classes at the IGNOU Headquarters in Maidan Garhi, New Delhi.
Course Work is conducted during the first six months of admission, requiring a minimum of 80% attendance. IGNOU does not provide hostel facilities for Ph.D. students.
The minimum duration for the Ph.D. Programme is three years, and the maximum is six years. Women candidates and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) with 40% or more disability are allowed an additional two years.
- Register yourself on the IGNOU Ph.D. admission portal using a valid and active Email ID and Mobile Number.
- Keep your registered Email ID and Mobile Number active for all future communications, including login credentials and application status.
- Gather scanned copies of required documents: recent passport size colour photograph, candidate’s signature, Aadhaar Card/valid photo identity proof, date of birth certificate/Class X certificate, marksheets and certificates of qualifying examinations, category certificate (if applicable), PwBD certificate (if applicable), UGC-NET/JRF certificate (if applicable), and experience certificate/NOC from employer (for Part-Time candidates, if applicable).
- Ensure all uploaded documents are clear, legible, and self-attested where required.
- Enter all details carefully, as submitted information cannot be modified after final submission.
- Verify eligibility, category details, and programme selection before making payment.
- After successful submission, download and save the completed Application Form and Payment Receipt for future reference.
IGNOU general admission dates: January and July cycles
IGNOU advises applicants to refer to the Admission Notification on the official website for the last date of submission of Admission Forms for the January and July Admission Cycles.
As of 16 October 2026, IGNOU has not published specific general admission last dates for the upcoming January 2027 or July 2027 sessions on its site.
IGNOU online admission system: Samarth portal usage
IGNOU utilises an Online Admission System for various programmes. The Samarth portal is frequently used for university admissions, including for IGNOU’s Ph.D. Programme.
For Ph.D. admission, candidates register on the IGNOU Ph.D. admission portal by providing a valid email ID and mobile number. This portal is part of the Samarth eGov initiative.
IGNOU student services: Digital learning resources
IGNOU provides various student services and digital learning resources to support distance learners. These initiatives aim to make education accessible and affordable.
Students can access academic content and support through platforms like eGyanKosh, Gyan Darshan, Gyan Vani, Swayam Prabha, and the IGNOU e-Content Mobile App.
- eGyanKosh: A national digital repository of learning resources.
- Gyan Darshan: Educational television channels.
- Gyan Vani: Educational FM radio network.
- Swayam Prabha: DTH channels for educational content.
- IGNOU e-Content Mobile App: Access to e-content on mobile devices.
- Web Enabled Academic Support (WEAS): Online academic support.
- Library Services: Access to digital and physical library resources.
- Vidya Lakshmi Portal: For students seeking education loans.
- Scheme of Fee Support to SC/ST Students: Financial assistance for eligible students.
Where to go on the IGNOU site
- apply for IGNOU Ph.D. admissionignou-phd.samarth.edu.in ↗
- explore Samarth eGov portalsamarth.edu.in ↗
- submit student grievancesigram.ignou.ac.in ↗
- view IGNOU contact detailsignou.ac.in ↗
- access IGNOU student servicesignou.ac.in ↗
Key facts
- University Full Form: Indira Gandhi National Open University
- Establishment Year: 1985
- NIRF Ranking (Open University): No. 1
- NAAC Accreditation: A++
- Total Programmes Offered: 325
- Online Programmes Offered: 45
- Ph.D. Admission Deadline (July 2026): 15 July 2026
Notices and Documents from IGNOU
Common IGNOU Questions
What is the last date for IGNOU admission and re-registration?
IGNOU advises applicants to check the official website for the last date of submission of admission forms for the January and July admission cycles. As of 16 October 2026, specific general admission dates for upcoming sessions are not published. For the Ph.D. Programme, the registration deadline for the July 2026 session was 15 July 2026.
Is an IGNOU distance degree valid for government job examinations like UPSC, BPSC, or SSC?
IGNOU distance degrees are completely valid for government job examinations as all programmes are at par with those approved by the UGC-Distance Education Bureau. This status applies under exemptions granted via UGC letters dated 9th August 2019 and 17th March 2020. Applicants can check specific eligibility guidelines on www.ignou.ac.in when applying. If an eligibility issue occurs, send an email to vcostudents@ignou.ac.in or log a ticket at igram.ignou.ac.in.
What is the full form of IGNOU and when was it established?
The full form of IGNOU is Indira Gandhi National Open University, which was established by an Act of Parliament in 1985. It operates as a premier central open university mandated to provide inclusive higher education across India and overseas. Students can register for academic programmes online on www.ignou.ac.in by submitting their profile details. If applicants face technical difficulties during registration, they can contact vcostudents@ignou.ac.in for support.
What is the NAAC grade and NIRF ranking of IGNOU?
IGNOU holds an A++ accreditation grade from NAAC and is ranked as the No. 1 Open University in the National Institutional Ranking Framework. This top tier accreditation applies across all its distance and online learning programmes offered nationwide. Prospective learners can explore accredited course options directly on www.ignou.ac.in. If you need assistance regarding accredited degrees, submit a query to vcostudents@ignou.ac.in or raise a ticket on igram.ignou.ac.in.
What was the application deadline for the IGNOU Ph.D. July 2026 session?
The registration deadline for the IGNOU Ph.D. July 2026 session was 15 July 2026. This deadline applied to candidates applying under both Full-Time and Part-Time research categories on ignou-phd.samarth.edu.in. Candidates filled their online application form after registering with an active email address and mobile number. If candidates encounter portal issues or payment status errors, they can reach support at vcostudents@ignou.ac.in.
What is the duration and course work requirement for an IGNOU Ph.D. programme?
The IGNOU Ph.D. programme requires a minimum duration of three years and a maximum duration of six years. Women candidates and Persons with Disabilities with 40% or more disability are granted an additional two-year extension. Admitted candidates must complete six months of mandatory Course Work with at least 80% attendance at IGNOU Headquarters in New Delhi. For grievances regarding Ph.D. admission status, candidates can write to vcostudents@ignou.ac.in.
What digital learning resources does IGNOU offer to distance students?
IGNOU provides digital learning resources including eGyanKosh, Gyan Darshan television channels, Gyan Vani FM radio, Swayam Prabha DTH channels, and the IGNOU e-Content Mobile App. These tools are available to all enrolled distance learning students across India to access course material online. Students can log into these services through the main university site www.ignou.ac.in. If technical access fails, learners should email vcostudents@ignou.ac.in or submit a ticket via igram.ignou.ac.in.
How many regional and learner support centres does IGNOU operate?
IGNOU operates over 69 Regional Centres, more than 2,000 Learner Support Centres across India, and 25 Overseas Study Centres located in 15 countries. This expansive network serves diverse learners seeking ODL and online education options globally. Students can locate their assigned support unit by visiting the official portal at www.ignou.ac.in. If support centre allocation details are missing, learners can write directly to vcostudents@ignou.ac.in for quick resolution.
What documents are required when applying for IGNOU Ph.D. admission?
Applicants for IGNOU Ph.D. admission must upload scanned copies of their photograph, signature, Aadhaar card or photo ID, Class X certificate, qualifying marksheets, category certificate, and UGC-NET/JRF certificate if applicable. Part-Time applicants must also provide an employer No Objection Certificate during the application process on ignou-phd.samarth.edu.in. All documents must be clear and self-attested before submission. If upload errors occur, candidates can seek guidance at vcostudents@ignou.ac.in.
How many total academic and online programmes does IGNOU offer?
IGNOU offers 325 academic programmes, including 45 online programmes delivered through its own Learning Management System. This wide range includes Four-Year Undergraduate Programmes and skill-based courses aligned with the National Education Policy 2020. Prospective students can browse programme details and register online by creating an account on www.ignou.ac.in. If you encounter any technical difficulty during course browsing or submission, send an email to vcostudents@ignou.ac.in or log a ticket at igram.ignou.ac.in.
Does IGNOU provide fee support for SC and ST students?
IGNOU provides a Scheme of Fee Support to SC/ST Students for eligible academic programmes offered by the university. Applicants claiming fee exemptions must select the applicable category and upload valid self-attested SC or ST certificates during registration on www.ignou.ac.in. The scheme applies to students enrolling in designated distance learning and online courses during the regular admission cycles. If fee support is not applied or document verification fails, learners should email vcostudents@ignou.ac.in or raise a ticket on igram.ignou.ac.in.
Which Master of Business Administration (MBA) specialisations does IGNOU offer?
IGNOU offers specialized MBA options including Human Resource Management (MBAHM), Financial Management (MBAFM), Operations Management (MBAOM), Marketing Management (MBAMM), and Banking and Finance (MBF) alongside the general MBA. These programmes are structured under the School of Management Studies for distance and online learners. Applicants can register and submit their details online through www.ignou.ac.in during open admission cycles. If you encounter registration errors or payment issues, contact support at vcostudents@ignou.ac.in or lodge a ticket via igram.ignou.ac.in.
Does IGNOU provide hostel facilities for Ph.D. scholars in New Delhi?
IGNOU does not provide hostel facilities for Ph.D. students attending mandatory course work at its campus. Candidates must make their own accommodation and stay arrangements in New Delhi during the required six-month course work period. Applicants can review full discipline requirements and brochure guidelines on ignou-phd.samarth.edu.in before applying. If you face accommodation queries or admission portal errors, write to vcostudents@ignou.ac.in for assistance.
How is IGNOU ranked for innovation and entrepreneurship in India?
IGNOU is ranked among the top ten Institutes of National Importance and Central Universities for promoting entrepreneurship and innovation. This recognition applies under the NIRF-Innovation rating-2023, where the university was positioned within the 151-300 range of overall rankings. Prospective students can check university achievements and academic updates by visiting www.ignou.ac.in. If you have queries about university rankings or accredited courses, send an email to vcostudents@ignou.ac.in or log a ticket at igram.ignou.ac.in.
How many Schools of Studies does IGNOU operate to design its academic programmes?
IGNOU operates 21 Schools of Studies that design and prepare its distance and online academic programmes. These units include the School of Computer and Information Sciences, School of Management Studies, and School of Humanities across diverse disciplines. Learners can browse discipline-wise course offerings and curriculum details on www.ignou.ac.in during admission cycles. If you encounter issues while searching school details or programme guidelines, write to vcostudents@ignou.ac.in or raise a ticket on igram.ignou.ac.in.
What is the primary mandate and mission of IGNOU under the IGNOU Act?
IGNOU is mandated under the IGNOU Act of 1985 to provide inclusive and equitable higher education across India and through its overseas learner support centres. This mandate empowers the central open university to democratize higher education nationwide using open, distance, and online learning systems. Prospective learners can review programme guidelines and register on www.ignou.ac.in during active admission cycles. If you encounter any admission or profile setup issues, email vcostudents@ignou.ac.in or log a ticket at igram.ignou.ac.in.
More on Admission
- IGNOU Registration Details and July 2026 Admission Steps
- IGNOU Admission 2026: Courses, Fee Structure, and Samarth Portal Process
- IGNOU Admission Status 2026: How to Check Application Status Online?
- IGNOU Registration Date, July 2026 Session Schedule, and Portal Steps
- IGNOU Re-Registration 2026: Portal, Process and Last Date
- IGNOU Exam Fee Structure 2026: Payment Modes, Rules, and Deadlines