Choose Between IGNOU ODL and IGNOU Online Mode: Fees, Classes, Exams and Degree
IGNOU ODL vs IGNOU Online: what each one is and how they differ
IGNOU ODL and IGNOU Online are both modes of study offered by Indira Gandhi National Open University. The university was established in 1985 by an Act of Parliament, specifically the IGNOU Act, 1985 (Act No. 50 of 1985). It operates as a central open university with its headquarters in Maidan Garhi, New Delhi.
IGNOU ODL programmes began in 1987 with two initial programmes, the Diploma in Management and the Diploma in Distance Education, enrolling 4,528 students. The university publishes that it has 21 Schools of Studies. Students in the ODL mode are permitted to change an elective or course within 30 days of receiving their first set of course material, upon payment of a fee.
IGNOU Online programmes are managed by the Centre for Online Education (COE), which was established on 7 June 2019. The COE’s address is Block-17, IGNOU, Maidan Garhi, New Delhi – 110068. The online portal states that the university has 67 regional centres and approximately 2,667 learner support centres, which is a university-wide figure. Online learners are identified by a programme code with an ‘OL’ suffix, such as BCA_NEWOL. For instance, the BFTTM programme is available in ODL mode, while BFTTMOL is the online equivalent, with English as the medium of instruction for the July 2026 session.
| Point | IGNOU ODL | IGNOU Online |
|---|---|---|
| Institution type | National Open University established by an Act of Parliament (central open university) | National Open University established by an Act of Parliament in 1985 |
| Parent Act | IGNOU Act, 1985 (Act No. 50 of 1985) | Act No. 50 of 1985; described as a Central University |
| Headquarters | New Delhi (Maidan Garhi, New Delhi-110068) | Centre for Online Education, Block-17, IGNOU, Maidan Garhi, New Delhi – 110068 |
| ODL and Online modes | Programmes are offered through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Online modes | The Common Prospectus has a separate chapter 13 listing programmes on offer through Online mode, with a separate admission portal |
IGNOU ODL only
- Year established: 1985
- UGC-DEB classification: Central Open University, Delhi
- First programmes and intake: Began in 1987 with two programmes (Diploma in Management, Diploma in Distance Education) and 4,528 students
- Schools of Studies: 21 Schools of Studies
- Change of elective/course: Allowed within 30 days of receiving the first set of course material, on payment of a fee
IGNOU Online only
- Unit for online programmes: Centre for Online Education (COE), established on 7 June 2019 by renaming the Inter University Consortium
- Regional network: 67 regional centres and around 2,667 learner support centres (university-wide figure, not specific to online mode)
- Online learner identification: By the programme code with the OL suffix (for example BCA_NEWOL), which IGNOU says indicates a student of the online mode
- Same programme in both modes: BFTTM is in ODL mode; BFTTMOL is in online mode with English as medium of instruction (Common Prospectus July 2026)
IGNOU ODL vs IGNOU Online recognition and validity
IGNOU’s ODL and Online modes both have strong recognition, with specific details published for each. The university is exempted from the UGC (ODL Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations, as stated in UGC letters from August 9, 2019, and March 17, 2020. This exemption applies to both ODL and Online programmes.
Both modes hold an A++ NAAC grade. IGNOU is ranked No. 1 among Open Universities in NIRF 2024 and 2025 for both its ODL and Online offerings. The university states that programmes from both modes are at par with those approved by the UGC-Distance Education Bureau.
Degrees, diplomas, and certificates from both ODL and Online modes are recognised by all member institutions of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU). The UGC regulation, as quoted by IGNOU, states that UG/PG degrees and PG diplomas awarded through ODL or Online mode are equivalent to conventional-mode awards.
The online MBA is described by IGNOU as an AICTE-recognised programme. Both ODL and Online degrees, diplomas, and certificates are available through DigiLocker.
| Point | IGNOU ODL | IGNOU Online |
|---|---|---|
| NAAC Grade | A++ | A++ |
| NIRF Ranking | No. 1 among Open Universities in NIRF 2024 and 2025 | Ranked No. 1 among Open Universities in NIRF 2024 and 2025 |
| UGC ODL Online Regulations Exemption | IGNOU is exempted from the UGC (ODL Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations | IGNOU states it is exempted from applicability of the UGC (ODL Programme and Online Programme) Regulations (UGC letters dated 9 August 2019 and 17 March 2020) |
| Parity with UGC-DEB Approved | IGNOU programmes are at par with programmes approved by the UGC-Distance Education Bureau | IGNOU states its programmes are at par with programmes approved by the UGC-Distance Education Bureau |
| UGC-DEB Programme List Entry | IGNOU ODL programmes are listed on the UGC-DEB "Know your Program" list for 2026-27, July session (125 ODL rows and 16 Online rows counted for 2026-27) | 16 IGNOU programmes are listed with mode "Online(OL)" for 2026-27 (July): BCA, B.Com, BLIS, MA Distance Education, MA Journalism and Digital Media, MA Journalism and Mass Communication, MA Rural Development, MA Sustainability Science, MA Translation Studies, MBA, MCA, M.Com, MA English, MA Gandhi and Peace Studies, MA Hindi, MA Sanskrit |
| AIU Recognition of Awards | Degrees, diplomas and certificates recognised by all member institutions of the Association of Indian Universities | Degrees, diplomas and certificates awarded by IGNOU are recognised by all member institutions of the Association of Indian Universities |
| AICTE Approval for MBA MCA | AICTE recognition of MBA and MCA from 2022-23 to 2026-27 | IGNOU describes the online MBA as an AICTE recognized / AICTE approved programme |
| Equivalence of Degrees | UGC regulation quoted by IGNOU: UG/PG degrees and PG diplomas through ODL or Online mode are treated as equivalent to conventional-mode awards | UG/PG degrees and PG diplomas awarded through ODL and/or Online mode are to be treated as equivalent to those offered through conventional mode |
| Recognition Statement on Portal | Recognised by all AIU member universities; at par with degrees/diplomas/certificates of all Indian universities | IGNOU degrees/diplomas/certificates are stated to be at par with those of all Indian universities/institutions (July 2026) |
IGNOU ODL only
- Certificates through DigiLocker: Degree, diploma and certificate are available through DigiLocker
More on the IGNOU degree: whether an IGNOU degree is valid and IGNOU degree certificate, migration and convocation.
IGNOU ODL vs IGNOU Online eligibility: who can enrol
IGNOU’s ODL mode is open to all, with no age or region bar stated as an objective. The university publishes that its ODL mode provides access for all, irrespective of age, region, religion, and gender. the online mode has a precondition: students should enrol only if they have access to a computer, laptop, and internet, and are comfortable with online learning. If a student is not comfortable, IGNOU advises them to enrol in the same programme in ODL mode.
Both modes allow students to pursue two academic programmes simultaneously, subject to specific combinations. For ODL programmes, foreign students residing in India are eligible for selected programmes if they hold a valid student visa for the minimum programme duration. The ODL mode has a pan-India geographic reach and operates 25 Overseas Study Centres in 15 countries.
For online programmes, learners outside India can join, applying through the ignouforeigniop.samarth.edu.in ↗ portal. This portal covers overseas students from SAARC and Non-SAARC countries, as well as Foreign Students Residing in India (FSRI) and NRIs for the July 2026 session. Indian nationals in India use ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in ↗ for ODL programmes and ignouiop.samarth.edu.in ↗ for online programmes. Applicants for online programmes must provide a valid APAAR ID. International students pay a one-time application processing fee of INR 2,000 for SAARC applicants and USD 100 for Non-SAARC applicants, as shown on the online programmes portal. not every online programme is open to international students; for example, the BCA (Online) programme is not offered for international students.
| Point | IGNOU ODL | IGNOU Online |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign students in India | Eligible for selected programmes if they hold a valid student visa for the minimum duration of the programme | Overseas students: SAARC, Non-SAARC, FSRI (foreign students residing in India) and NRI (July 2026) |
| Simultaneous programs | A student may pursue two academic programmes simultaneously through ODL / Online mode (conditions apply) | A student may pursue two academic programmes simultaneously through ODL / Online mode, subject to the combinations IGNOU specifies |
IGNOU ODL only
- Access and reach: Access for all irrespective of age, region, religion and gender; Pan-India, plus 25 Overseas Study Centres in 15 countries
IGNOU Online only
- Online learning prerequisites: Enrol in an online programme only if you have access to a computer/laptop/internet and are comfortable with learning online; Enrol in the same programme in ODL mode through the ODL admission portal instead
- Indian nationals portal: ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in for ODL programmes and ignouiop.samarth.edu.in for Online programmes
- APAAR ID requirement: Applicants have to provide a valid APAAR ID
- International student fees: INR 2,000 for SAARC and USD 100 for Non-SAARC applicants (as shown on the online programmes portal)
- Program availability for international students: Example: the BCA (Online) page states it is not offered for international students
- Learners outside India: Foreign students residing in other countries can join the online programmes, applying at https://ignouforeigniop.samarth.edu.in/
IGNOU entry rules: IGNOU eligibility criteria and IGNOU at a glance.
IGNOU student services
IGNOU ODL vs IGNOU Online courses offered
IGNOU’s Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode offers a wider range of programmes than its Online mode. The ODL mode lists 325 programmes, including Certificates, Diplomas, Advanced Diplomas, Post Graduate Diplomas, and Degrees. the Online mode offers 46 programmes for the July 2026 session, comprising 5 Bachelor’s degrees, 14 Master’s degrees, 10 PG Diplomas, 3 Diplomas, 2 PG Certificates, and 12 Certificates.
For undergraduate degrees, the ODL mode includes a Bachelor of Arts (Multidisciplinary) for Rs. 15,000 over three years, and a Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) for Rs. 49,800. The Online mode also offers a BCA for the same total fee of Rs. 49,800. However, a general BA is not listed in the online mode.
At the postgraduate level, the ODL mode offers an MBA for Rs. 66,000, with fees structured at Rs. 16,000 per semester for semesters I, II, and IV, and Rs. 18,000 for semester III. Both modes require a Bachelor’s Degree for most postgraduate admissions.
| Point | IGNOU ODL | IGNOU Online |
|---|---|---|
| Total programmes offered | 325 programmes | 46 programmes for the July 2026 session: 5 Bachelor's degrees, 14 Master's degrees, 10 PG Diplomas, 3 Diplomas, 2 PG Certificates, 12 Certificates 45 programmes (chapter 13); PGDINDSOL is on the admission portal but not in this list |
| General BA availability | Bachelor of Arts (BAM), a multidisciplinary 3-year degree under the FYUP framework | BSW, BCA, B.Com, BLIS, Bachelor of Tourism and Travel Management. No BA (General) is listed in online mode. |
IGNOU ODL only
- Awards offered: Certificates, Diplomas, Advance Diplomas, Post Graduate Diplomas and Degrees
- Bachelor degree credits: 120 credits in a minimum of six semesters (three years); BA (Honours) under CBCS: 148 credits in a minimum of six semesters (three years)
- Four-year UG programmes: Exit after 3 years (120 credits) gives a Degree with Major; 4 years (160 credits) gives a Degree with Honours
- Multiple entry and exit: Multiple Entry and Multiple Exit Scheme applies to FYUP undergraduate programmes from the July 2025 admission session
- One-year Master's programmes: One-year MA (e.g. MA English, MAEGOY) for holders of a four-year Bachelor's degree with Honours / Honours with Research; minimum 1 year, maximum 2 years, Rs. 8,200 total
- Continuing learner programmes: BAG and BCOMG appear in the programme-code list of the December 2026 term-end date sheet (December 2026 TEE)
- Diploma examples: Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education (DECE): 10+2 or equivalent; 1 to 3 years; Rs. 4,000 (July 2026); Diploma in Nutrition & Health Education (DNHE): 10+2 or equivalent; 1 to 3 years; Rs. 4,000 (July 2026)
- Certificate examples: Certificate in Environmental Studies (CES): 10+2 or equivalent; 6 months to 2 years; Rs. 2,900 (July 2026); 10th pass; 6 months to 2 years; Rs. 6,200; 10th pass; 6 months to 2 years; Rs. 2,900; 10th pass (Matriculation); 6 months to 2 years; Rs. 2,900; 10th pass; 6 months to 2 years; Rs. 3,200; No formal qualification, minimum age 18; 6 months to 2 years; Rs. 2,600
- Degree entry requirement: BCA_NEW: 10+2 or its equivalent, or a pass in Diploma in Commercial Practice or equivalent (see the programmes list for the other degrees, all 10+2)
Minimum and maximum duration
| Programme | IGNOU ODL duration | IGNOU Online duration |
|---|---|---|
| BCA | 3 years to 6 years | 3 years to 6 years |
| MBA | 2 years to 4 years | 2 years to 4 years |
| MCA | 2 years to 4 years | 2 years to 4 years |
| M.Com | 2 years to 4 years | 2 years to 4 years |
| MA Hindi | 2 years to 4 years | 2 years to 4 years |
| MA English | 2 years to 4 years | 2 years to 4 years |
Eligibility as published
| Programme | IGNOU ODL eligibility | IGNOU Online eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| BCA | 10+2 or its equivalent, or a pass in Diploma in Commercial Practice or equivalent | 10+2 or its equivalent or A pass in Diploma in Commercial Practice or equivalent |
| MBA | Bachelor Degree of minimum 3 years duration with at least 50% marks (45% for reserved category) | Passed Bachelor Degree of Minimum 3 years duration with at least 50% marks (45% in case of candidates belonging to reserved category). |
| MCA | Category 1: BCA / Bachelor Degree in Computer Science Engineering or equivalent. Category 2: B.Sc./B.Com./B.A. with Mathematics at 10+2 or graduation level (two bridge courses added) | Eligibility: Category 1: Passed BCA/Bachelor Degree in Computer Science Engineering or Equivalent Degree. OR Category 2: Passed B.Sc./B.Com./B.A. with Mathematics at 10+2 Level or at Graduation Level Students enrolling under Category-2 shall be required to study two additional courses – MCS-201 and MCS-208 in the first semester and pay an additional amount of Rs. 2000/-. |
| M.Com | Bachelor's Degree or a higher degree from a recognized University | Any graduate or equivalent from a recognised university is eligible for admission |
| MA Hindi | Bachelor's Degree or a higher degree from a recognized University | Eligibility for admission: Bachelor's Degree or a higher degree from a recognised University. Age: Minimum No bar Maximum No bar Medium of Instruction: Hindi |
| MA English | Bachelor's Degree or a higher degree from a recognized University | Bachelor’s Degree or a higher degree from a recognized University |
IGNOU course guides: IGNOU BA; IGNOU MBA; IGNOU MA; IGNOU MCA and IGNOU syllabus.
IGNOU ODL vs IGNOU Online fees, course by course
For example, the Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) costs Rs. 49,800 in both modes, charged at Rs. 8,300 per semester for six semesters. Similarly, the Master of Business Administration (MBA) is Rs. 66,000 in both modes, with Rs. 16,000 per semester for the first, second, and fourth semesters, and Rs. 18,000 for the third semester.
IGNOU ODL offers programme fee exemptions for SC/ST students and prison inmates, as per university policy. Learners with 40% or more disability in the ODL mode receive two extra years beyond the maximum programme duration. For both ODL and Online modes, fees are refunded if an application is cancelled before admission confirmation. After confirmation, 15% of the programme fee, capped at Rs. 2,000, is deducted. No refund is available after 60 days from the closing date of admissions for either mode. The re-registration fee for IGNOU Online is not refunded in any case.
| Point | IGNOU ODL | IGNOU Online |
|---|---|---|
| Refund before confirmation | Fee paid is refunded if the application is cancelled before confirmation of admission (July 2026) | Fee paid is refunded (July 2026) |
| Refund after confirmation | 15% of the programme fee, capped at Rs. 2,000, is deducted (July 2026) | 15% of the programme fee, subject to a ceiling of Rs. 2,000, is deducted (July 2026) |
| Refund cut-off | No refund after 60 days from the closing date of admissions (July 2026) | No refund after 60 days of the closing date of admissions (July 2026) |
IGNOU ODL only
- SC/ST fee exemption: Programme fee exemption for SC/ST students as per University policy (policy reviewed every admission cycle) (July 2026)
- Jail inmates fee exemption: Prison inmates are exempt from programme fee including registration fee (July 2026)
- Government scholarships: IGNOU learners are eligible for Government of India scholarships via the National Scholarship Portal
- Extra time for disabled: Two extra years beyond the maximum duration for learners with 40% or more disability (July 2026)
IGNOU Online only
- Re-registration fee refund: Not refunded in any case (Common Prospectus July 2026)
Fees of the programmes both run, as each publishes them
| Programme | IGNOU ODL fee | IGNOU Online fee |
|---|---|---|
| BCA | Rs. 8,300 per semester (July 2026) | Rs.8300/- per semester Plus Registration Fee & Development Fee as applicable (July 2026) |
| MBA | Rs. 16,000 per semester for semesters I, II and IV; Rs. 18,000 for semester III (July 2026) | Rs.16,000/- per semester for 1st, 2nd and 4th semester Rs.18,000/- for 3rd semester (3rd semester has an 8-credit project) Plus Registration Fee & Development Fee as applicable (July 2026) |
| MCA | Rs. 13,000 per semester (July 2026) | Rs.13000/- per semester Plus Registration Fee & Development Fee as applicable (July 2026) |
| M.Com | Rs. 10,200 per year (July 2026) | Rs.10200/- per year Plus Registration Fee & Development Fee as applicable (July 2026) |
| MA Hindi | Rs. 8,200 per year (July 2026) | Rs.8200/- per year Plus Registration Fee & Development Fee as applicable (July 2026) |
| MA English | Rs. 8,200 per year (July 2026) | Rs.8200/- per year Plus Registration Fee & Development Fee as applicable (July 2026) |
IGNOU fees in full: IGNOU fee structure.
IGNOU ODL vs IGNOU Online admission: sessions, last dates and portals
IGNOU offers two admission cycles annually for both its ODL and Online modes: January and July. For the July 2026 session, the last date for fresh admissions in both modes is 13 October 2026, with the exception of Certificate and Semester-based programmes.
Applicants for the ODL mode apply through the portal at https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/. The Online mode has a separate portal at https://ignouiop.samarth.edu.in/, where registration is compulsory before submitting the form. Both modes require a non-refundable registration fee of Rs. 300 and a University Development fee of Rs. 400, paid at admission plus the programme fee.
For ODL admissions, applicants must provide a colour passport-size photograph with a white background, under 100 KB JPEG, and soft copies of educational qualifications and category certificates, each under 200 KB. The Online mode requires similar documents: photograph and signature under 100 KB, and educational qualification, experience, and category certificates under 200 KB. Both modes accept payments via net banking, debit/credit card, or UPI.
| Point | IGNOU ODL | IGNOU Online |
|---|---|---|
| Admission cycles | Two cycles a year: January and July (July 2026) | Two cycles a year: January and July (Common Prospectus July 2026) |
| Current admission cycle | July 2026 cycle | July 2026 session |
| Latest admission deadline | 13 October 2026 (except Certificate and Semester-based programmes) (July 2026) Last date for the Online Fresh Admission Form (ODL and Online) extended up to 13 October 2026 (July 2026) |
13 October 2026 (except for certificate and semester-based programmes) (July 2026) 13 October 2026 (except for certificate and semester-based programmes), July 2026 cycle |
| Re-registration deadline | Online re-registration extended till 30 September 2026 with late fee of Rs. 200 (July 2026) | Learners must re-register for each semester from the second semester onwards |
| Admission portal | https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/ (July 2026) | https://ignouiop.samarth.edu.in ; registration on the portal is compulsory before submitting the form |
| Registration fee | Rs. 300, non-refundable, paid at admission in addition to the programme fee (July 2026) | Rs. 300, non-refundable, paid at admission in addition to the programme fee (Common Prospectus July 2026) |
| University Development fee | Rs. 400, paid at admission in addition to the programme fee (July 2026) | Rs. 400, paid at admission in addition to the programme fee (Common Prospectus July 2026) |
| Payment methods | Net banking, debit/credit card or UPI through the payment gateway | Credit card (Master/Visa), debit card (Master/Visa/Rupay), net banking, UPI (July 2026) |
| Required documents | Colour passport-size photograph, white background, under 100 KB JPEG Soft copy of the relevant educational qualification, under 200 KB, JPEG/PDF Soft copy of category certificate if SC/ST/OBC, under 200 KB |
Photograph and signature (under 100 KB, JPEG); educational qualification, experience certificate if any, category certificate if SC/ST/OBC (under 200 KB, JPEG/PDF) |
IGNOU ODL only
- Application mode: Fully online; no printed form needs to be sent to the Regional Centre
- APAAR ID requirement: Applicants are told to keep their APAAR ID ready before applying
IGNOU Online only
- Previous cycle deadline: January 2026 cycle (online mode): last date for fresh admissions 31 January 2026
- Application cancellation: Done from the applicant login; cancellation is irreversible
IGNOU admission this session: IGNOU admission 2026; how to apply to IGNOU online; IGNOU admission last date and IGNOU admission status.
IGNOU ODL vs IGNOU Online study material, classes and study centres
IGNOU’s ODL mode provides printed self-instructional study material. IGNOU Online mode does not provide printed study material; all self-instructional material is in PDF or other electronic form, uploaded on the Learning Management System (LMS).
Counselling sessions in ODL mode are held as per the schedule drawn up by the Learner Support Centre. For online programmes, counselling sessions are held online, with theory sessions lasting two hours and practical sessions three hours. These sessions focus on clearing doubts rather than delivering lectures. Practical sessions are compulsory in ODL mode where a programme has them. For online programmes, practical sessions are held only in online mode, and learners use the required software at their own end.
Online programmes list the Regional Centres themselves as the “Study Centre” on the admission portal; no separate local study centres are listed. For instance, RC Delhi-3 is the nodal Regional Centre for BCA_NEWOL students.
| Point | IGNOU ODL | IGNOU Online |
|---|---|---|
| Study material format | Printed self-instructional study material is provided as a print book and/or e-book | No printed study material is provided to students enrolled in the online programmes No provision of hard copy of self-instructional material for online students Self-instructional material in PDF or other electronic form, uploaded on the LMS; also on eGyankosh |
| Counselling sessions | Counselling sessions are held as per the schedule drawn up by the Learner Support Centre | Online counselling sessions for all theory and practical courses (BCA Online) Counselling sessions are for clearing doubts; counsellors do not deliver lectures as in conventional teaching Theory session 2 hours; practical session 3 hours Virtual classroom is used for online counselling |
| Practical sessions | Attendance at practical sessions is compulsory where a programme has practicals | Held only in online mode; learners use the required software at their own end IGNOU provides no hardware or software facility to online students |
IGNOU ODL only
- eGyanKosh availability: Self-learning material of over 3923 courses of 384 programmes is on eGyanKosh
- Credit system: One credit equals 30 hours of learner study
- Broadcast and online support: Technology-enabled support through Gyan Darshan, Gyan Vani, Swayam Prabha and web-based support
- Number of Regional Centres: 67 Regional Centres (including Recognised Regional Centres); Nation-wide network of 67 Regional Centres; Over 69 Regional Centres and 2,000+ Learner Support Centres
- Number of Learner Support Centres: Nearly 2000 Learner Support Centres
IGNOU Online only
- Learning Management System: IGNOU has created an LMS for online learners; online programmes are delivered on the university LMS (lms.ignouonline.ac.in); The LMS is a centralised portal for accessing all online programmes; After admission is confirmed the learner receives LMS credentials by email
- Counselling schedules: Regional Centres post counselling schedules for online programmes on the LMS (example dated 12 October 2026)
- Nodal Regional Centre: RC Delhi-3 is the nodal Regional Centre for BCA_NEWOL students; RC Delhi-1 is the nodal Regional Centre for MCAOL students; Confined to holding academic counselling sessions; it also gets LMS-submitted assignments evaluated
IGNOU books and centres: IGNOU study material and IGNOU regional and study centres.
IGNOU ODL vs IGNOU Online assignments and exams
Assignments are compulsory for both IGNOU ODL and IGNOU Online programmes. For Online students, assignments for the MBA Online programme are uploaded on the IGNOU LMS portal only; hard copies are not considered for evaluation. The last date for assignments for the December 2026 TEE is 31 October 2026 for both modes.
The weightage of assignments and term-end examinations varies by programme.
Term-end examinations are held twice a year, in June and December, for both modes. ODL examinations are held at examination centres across the country and abroad, with two sessions daily. The examination fee for ODL is Rs. 200 per theory course. For Online programmes, the June 2026 TEE notification covers both ODL and Online programmes, offering Pen & Paper and CBT (computer-based test) modes. Online students choose their mode and centre in the examination form. The examination fee for Online programmes is also Rs. 200 per course.
Pass marks differ by programme. MBA ODL requires an overall C grade. For MBA Online, an overall C grade (50% to 59.9%) is needed. Re-evaluation costs Rs. 750 per course for both modes, with requests to be made within 40 days of result declaration.
| Point | IGNOU ODL | IGNOU Online |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment submission requirement | Assignment responses must be written before taking the Term-End Examination (July 2026) | A learner cannot appear in the term-end examination of a course without submitting its assignment (MBAOL Student Handbook and Prospectus, January 2026) |
| Assignment submission method | Tutor Marked Assignments go to the Coordinator of the learner's Learner Support Centre (July 2026) | Assignments are submitted on the LMS portal only, as PDF files (BCA_NEWOL Programme Guide, July 2025) Assignments are uploaded on the IGNOU LMS portal only (MBAOL Student Handbook and Prospectus, January 2026) Hard copies submitted at a study centre / Regional Centre / SED are not considered for evaluation (MBAOL Student Handbook and Prospectus, January 2026) |
| Assignment weightage | Assignments 30%, Term End Examination 70% Assignments 30%, term-end examination 70% (January 2026) Assignment 30%, term-end examination 70% (July 2025) BCA core courses: continuous evaluation 25%, term end examination 75% (May 2026) |
Assignments 30%, term-end examination 70% (MBAOL Student Handbook and Prospectus, January 2026) Continuous evaluation 25%, term-end examination 75% (BCA_NEWOL Programme Guide, July 2025) |
| Assignment deadline | Assignment submission (hard and soft copy) extended up to 31 October 2026 (December 2026 TEE) | Last date for assignments for the December 2026 TEE extended to 31 October 2026 |
| Term-end exam frequency | Twice a year: June and December (July 2026) Twice a year in June and December, throughout the country |
Twice a year, in June and December (MBAOL Student Handbook and Prospectus, January 2026) |
| Exam location | Examination centres across the country and abroad (July 2026) | At an examination centre: the learner prints the hall ticket and reports at the examination centre with the identity card (BCA_NEWOL Programme Guide, July 2025) |
| Exam fee | Rs. 200 per theory course (December 2026 TEE) | Rs. 200 per course (theory / practical / lab) (BCA_NEWOL Programme Guide, July 2025) Exam fee is not included in the fee structure |
| Exam form window | 01.10.2026 to 15.10.2026 with Rs. 1,100 late fee (10.09.2026 to 30.09.2026 was the no-late-fee window) (December 2026 TEE) Without late fee up to 7 October 2026 (December 2026 TEE) |
10.03.2026 to 10.04.2026 without late fee; 11.04.2026 to 24.04.2026 with late fee of Rs.1,100 (June 2026 TEE) |
IGNOU ODL only
- Assignment source: Assignments for the current session are put on the website for download (July 2026)
- Assignment re-submission policy: A failed assignment must be re-submitted; once passed, it cannot be re-submitted to improve the grade
- Daily exam sessions: Two sessions a day: 10 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM (December 2026 TEE)
- Exam date sheet: Tentative date sheet for the December 2026 term-end examination issued (dated 5 October 2026) (December 2026 TEE)
- Exam language option: Learners may write the exam in Hindi even if registered in English medium (except language programmes) (December 2026 TEE)
IGNOU Online only
- Exam mode: The June 2026 TEE notification covers ODL and Online programmes together, in Pen & Paper and CBT (computer-based test) modes; Students choose Pen & Paper mode or CBT mode, the courses and an exam centre in the examination form (June 2026 TEE)
- Exam centre selection: The learner enters an Examination Centre Code in the online exam form; if that centre is not activated an alternative centre is allotted (BCA_NEWOL Programme Guide, July 2025); Learners may appear only at the examination centre allotted to them (BCA_NEWOL Programme Guide, July 2025); No request for change of examination centre is entertained after the form is filled (June 2026 TEE)
- Exam form submission: Submitted through the student portal on the Samarth platform (ignou.samarth.edu.in) (June 2026 TEE)
IGNOU exam cycle: IGNOU assignments; IGNOU date sheet; IGNOU hall ticket and IGNOU result and grade card.
IGNOU ODL vs IGNOU Online credit transfer, migration and re-admission
IGNOU ODL states that a student from another university can be admitted to complete an equivalent programme based on credits already earned.
For IGNOU ODL, a learner can register for a single course or a few courses, up to 16 credits, under Course-wise Registration (CRCS). IGNOU Online publishes that credit transfer is available under the Academic Bank of Credits.
Both IGNOU ODL and IGNOU Online state that a migration certificate is applied for through the Regional Director with a fee of Rs. 500. For the MBA Online programme, IGNOU Online offers an exit option after the first and second semesters (56 credits) at the learner’s request, resulting in a Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDIM).
| Point | IGNOU ODL | IGNOU Online |
|---|---|---|
| Credit transfer | A student of another university can be admitted to IGNOU to complete an equivalent programme on the basis of credits already earned | Available |
| Migration certificate | Applied for through the Regional Director; fee Rs. 500 | Requested from the Regional Director with a fee of Rs. 500 |
IGNOU ODL only
- Course registration: A learner can register for a single course or a few courses, up to 16 credits
IGNOU Online only
- Exit option: Exit after the 1st and 2nd semesters (56 credits) at the learner's request, with a Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDIM)
For enrolled IGNOU students: IGNOU re-registration.
IGNOU ODL vs IGNOU Online student support and helpline
IGNOU ODL and IGNOU Online both offer student support services. Both modes use the iGRAM (IGNOU Grievance Redress and Management) portal for student grievances.
For ODL students, the Student Service Centre helpline is available at 011-29572514, 29572513, and 29572516. Queries can also be sent via email to vcostudents@ignou.ac.in. IGNOU Online students can contact the Centre for Online Education at coe@ignou.ac.in or iopsupport@ignouonline.ac.in. The online portal states support hours are Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 6 pm.
Both ODL and Online modes share a Campus Placement Cell (CPC). The CPC was established in 2005 at IGNOU headquarters. Students from both modes can send their resumes to campusplacement@ignou.ac.in. The CPC conducts campus placement drives, recruitment drives, and job fairs throughout the year.
For admission-related queries, the Centralised Student Registration Cell provides a helpline for IGNOU Online students at 011-29571301 and 011-29571528, with an email address of csrc@ignou.ac.in. This applies to the July 2026 session.
| Point | IGNOU ODL | IGNOU Online |
|---|---|---|
| Grievance portal | iGRAM (IGNOU Grievance Redress and Management), http://igram.ignou.ac.in/ | iGRAM, http://igram.ignou.ac.in/ |
| Student query email | vcostudents@ignou.ac.in | Centre for Online Education: coe@ignou.ac.in and iopsupport@ignouonline.ac.in |
| Student helpline | 011-29572514, 29572513, 29572516 | Centralised Student Registration Cell: 011-29571301, 011-29571528, csrc@ignou.ac.in (July 2026) |
| Campus Placement Cell | A Campus Placement Cell (CPC) exists; students send their resume to campusplacement@ignou.ac.in | IGNOU has a Campus Placement Cell (CPC); learners send their resume to campusplacement@ignou.ac.in |
IGNOU ODL only
- CPC establishment: Established in 2005 at IGNOU headquarters
- Placement activities: CPC conducts campus placement drives, recruitment drives and job fairs through the year
IGNOU Online only
- Support hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 6 pm
- Technical requirements: A computer system with the necessary software for practical courses (BCA Online); Access to computers and the Internet and basic knowledge of word processing are part of the eligibility
IGNOU portals: IGNOU Samarth portal; IGNOU grievance portal (iGRAM) and IGNOU ID card.
IGNOU ODL or IGNOU Online: which is better for you
IGNOU ODL provides printed self-instructional study material as a print book or e-book. IGNOU Online states that no printed study material is provided to students enrolled in online programmes.
IGNOU ODL operates through 67 Regional Centres and nearly 2,000 Learner Support Centres across India. IGNOU Online states that its Regional Centres are confined to holding academic counselling sessions and evaluating LMS-submitted assignments.
Foreign students residing in other countries can join online programmes through a dedicated portal.
IGNOU ODL offers a 15% discount on the programme fee for learners who opt for soft copy instead of printed material.
Notices and Documents from IGNOU
- IGNOU Common Prospectus July 2026
- IGNOU MBA Student Handbook Prospectus Jan 2026
- IGNOU Tentative Date Sheet December 2026 Term End Examination
- IGNOU B.Com Programme Guide
- IGNOU MCA New Programme Guide July 2025
- IGNOU Examination Form Submission Schedule December 2026 TEE
- IGNOU BCA New Programme Guide May 2026
- IGNOU Term End Examination Notification December 2026
- IGNOU Samarth Portal Admission Home
- IGNOU BCA Newol Programme Guide
- IGNOU Mbaol Student Handbook
- IGNOU TEE June 2026 Notification
- IGNOU Mcaol Programme Guide
- IGNOU Samarth Portal Online Programmes Home
- IGNOU Online Programmes About
- IGNOU Samarth Portal Foreign Online Programmes Home
- IGNOU LMS Home
Common IGNOU Questions
Which IGNOU mode, ODL or online, is better for students who need printed study materials?
IGNOU ODL mode provides printed self-instructional study material as a print book or e-book. IGNOU Online mode does not provide printed study material; learners access materials in PDF or other electronic forms on the LMS. Students who prefer physical books for learning should choose the ODL mode.
What is the fee for an MBA in IGNOU ODL versus IGNOU Online mode?
The total fee for the MBA in IGNOU ODL mode is Rs. 66,000, paid as Rs. 16,000 per semester for semesters I, II, and IV, and Rs. 18,000 for semester III. The total fee for the MBA in IGNOU Online mode is also Rs. 66,000, with the same semester-wise fee breakdown. Both modes have additional registration and development fees.
How does the recognition and degree value of IGNOU ODL and IGNOU Online programmes compare?
Both IGNOU ODL and Online degrees, diplomas, and certificates are recognised by all member institutions of the Association of Indian Universities. The UGC states that UG/PG degrees and PG diplomas awarded through ODL or Online mode are equivalent to those offered through conventional mode. This ensures equal academic standing for both modes.
What are the eligibility criteria for a Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) in IGNOU ODL versus IGNOU Online mode?
For the BCA in IGNOU ODL mode, eligibility requires 10+2 or its equivalent, or a pass in a Diploma in Commercial Practice or equivalent. The BCA in IGNOU Online mode has the same eligibility requirement: 10+2 or its equivalent, or a pass in a Diploma in Commercial Practice or equivalent. Both modes have consistent entry requirements for this programme.
What are the admission dates for the July 2026 session for IGNOU ODL and IGNOU Online programmes?
The last date for fresh admission for most programmes in both IGNOU ODL and IGNOU Online modes for the July 2026 session is 13 October 2026. This deadline excludes Certificate and Semester-based programmes. Both modes follow the same admission cycle and deadlines.
How do study materials and classes differ between IGNOU ODL and IGNOU Online modes?
IGNOU ODL mode provides printed self-instructional study material and holds counselling sessions at Learner Support Centres. IGNOU Online mode provides self-instructional material in electronic form on its LMS, with online counselling sessions for doubt clearing. Online students do not receive printed materials.
Where do students submit assignments for IGNOU ODL and IGNOU Online programmes?
For IGNOU ODL programmes, Tutor Marked Assignments are submitted to the Coordinator of the learner's Learner Support Centre. For IGNOU Online programmes, assignments are submitted exclusively on the LMS portal as PDF files. Hard copies are not considered for evaluation in the online mode.
Where are term-end examinations held for IGNOU ODL and IGNOU Online programmes?
For IGNOU ODL programmes, term-end examinations are held at examination centres across the country and abroad. For IGNOU Online programmes, students also take exams at designated examination centres, choosing between Pen & Paper or CBT modes. Both modes require students to appear at an allotted centre.
What are the available mediums of instruction for Master of Arts (English) in IGNOU ODL and IGNOU Online modes?
The Master of Arts (English) in IGNOU ODL mode is offered in English medium. The Master of Arts (English) in IGNOU Online mode is also offered in English medium. Both modes provide the programme solely in English.
Can a student change from IGNOU ODL to IGNOU Online mode, or combine programmes from both?
IGNOU allows a student to pursue two academic programmes simultaneously through ODL or Online mode, subject to specific conditions.
What kind of support is available for students in IGNOU ODL and IGNOU Online modes?
IGNOU ODL learners receive support through 67 Regional Centres and nearly 2000 Learner Support Centres, along with technology-enabled support via Gyan Darshan and Gyan Vani. IGNOU Online learners access support through a dedicated Centre for Online Education helpdesk and the iGRAM grievance portal.
Is there a fee discount for choosing digital study material in IGNOU ODL versus IGNOU Online mode?
IGNOU ODL learners who opt for soft copy instead of printed material receive a 15% discount on the programme fee.