Compare IGNOU Online and Online Manipal (MUJ): Fees, Recognition, Exams and Degrees
IGNOU’s online MBA costs Rs. 66,000; the MBA from Manipal University Jaipur, sold on onlinemanipal.com, is listed at Rs. 1,84,000. IGNOU is a central government university whose term-end exams are held at exam centres, while MUJ is a private university whose exams are online proctored, taken from home.
IGNOU Online vs Online Manipal (MUJ): what each one is and how they differ
IGNOU Online is a National Open University, established by an Act of Parliament in 1985. Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) is a self-financed State Private University, launched in 2011 on an invitation from the Government of Rajasthan. The degrees offered on onlinemanipal.com are awarded by MUJ.
IGNOU Online operates under Act No. 50 of 1985, which describes it as a Central University. Its online programmes are run by the Centre for Online Education (COE), established on 7 June 2019. The COE is headquartered at Block-17, IGNOU, Maidan Garhi, New Delhi – 110068. MUJ is part of the Manipal Education and Medical Group, which includes five universities. Its online degrees are managed by the Centre for Distance & Online Education (CDOE) at Manipal University Jaipur, Dehmi Kalan, Jaipur-Ajmer Expressway, Jaipur, Rajasthan – 303007.
IGNOU Online identifies its online learners by a programme code with an OL suffix, such as BCA_NEWOL. It states that this suffix indicates a student of the online mode. The Common Prospectus for July 2026 lists programmes like BFTTMOL in online mode with English as the medium of instruction, distinct from its ODL mode counterpart, BFTTM. Manipal University Jaipur offers its online degrees in a 100% online mode, covering enrolment, classes, assignments, examinations, and student support.
| Point | IGNOU Online | Online Manipal (MUJ) |
|---|---|---|
| University type and founding | National Open University established by an Act of Parliament in 1985 Act No. 50 of 1985; described as a Central University |
Self-financed State Private University, launched in 2011 on an invitation from the Government of Rajasthan |
| Online education unit | Centre for Online Education (COE), established on 7 June 2019 by renaming the Inter University Consortium | Centre for Distance & Online Education (CDOE), Manipal University Jaipur, with support of the university schools |
| Headquarters or unit address | Centre for Online Education, Block-17, IGNOU, Maidan Garhi, New Delhi – 110068 | Manipal University Jaipur, Dehmi Kalan, Jaipur-Ajmer Expressway, Jaipur, Rajasthan – 303007 |
| Online mode offering | The Common Prospectus has a separate chapter 13 listing programmes on offer through Online mode, with a separate admission portal | 100% online: enrolment, classes, assignments, examinations and student support are online |
IGNOU Online only
- 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 program in both modes: BFTTM is in ODL mode; BFTTMOL is in online mode with English as medium of instruction (Common Prospectus July 2026)
Online Manipal (MUJ) only
- Parent group: onlinemanipal.com is an online learning platform by the Manipal Group selling degrees of three separate universities: MUJ, MAHE and SMU. Degrees in this pack are awarded by Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) only.; Part of the Manipal Education and Medical Group, which includes five universities (MAHE, SMU, AUA, MIU Malaysia and MUJ)
- Campus size: 122 acres at Dehmi Kalan village near Jaipur
IGNOU Online vs Online Manipal (MUJ) recognition and validity
IGNOU Online holds an A++ NAAC grade. Online Manipal (MUJ) has an A+ NAAC grade from its first cycle, valid up to 13 February 2025, with an extension until three months after the Maturity Based Graded Level (MBGL) system launches. IGNOU is ranked No. 1 among Open Universities in NIRF 2024 and 2025.
IGNOU states it is exempt from the UGC (ODL Programme and Online Programme) Regulations, citing UGC letters dated 9 August 2019 and 17 March 2020. It also states its programmes are at par with those approved by the UGC-Distance Education Bureau.
IGNOU online programmes listed with the UGC-DEB for the 2026-27 July session include 16 programmes, such as BCA, B.Com, and MBA. Online Manipal has 9 online programmes listed with UGC-DEB for the 2026-27 July session, including MBA, MCA, and BBA. All MUJ rows in the UGC-DEB list are for Online mode; none are ODL.
IGNOU describes its online MBA as an AICTE recognized/approved programme. Online Manipal states its online MBA complies with AICTE norms, and UGC rules do not require AICTE approval for online management/computer applications programmes. Degrees, diplomas, and certificates awarded by IGNOU are recognised by all member institutions of the Association of Indian Universities.
| Point | IGNOU Online | Online Manipal (MUJ) |
|---|---|---|
| NAAC grade | A++ | A+ grade, CGPA 3.28 on a four-point scale, certificate dated 14 February 2020, valid up to 13 February 2025 NAAC letter of 18 November 2024 extends the cycle-1 A+ (3.28 CGPA) accreditation till three months after launch of the Maturity Based Graded Level (MBGL) system |
| Parity with UGC-DEB programmes | IGNOU states its programmes are at par with programmes approved by the UGC-Distance Education Bureau IGNOU degrees/diplomas/certificates are stated to be at par with those of all Indian universities/institutions (July 2026) |
MUJ calls its online degrees UGC-entitled and equivalent to campus degrees |
| Equivalence of online degrees | 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 | MUJ online notices cite UGC Regulation 22 on equivalence of ODL/online degrees with conventional degrees (notice dated 02.09.2022) |
| UGC-DEB listed online programmes | 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 | Online(OL), 2026-27, July session: Master of Business Administration Online(OL), 2026-27, July session: Master of Computer Applications Online(OL), 2026-27, July session: Bachelor of Computer Applications Online(OL), 2026-27, July session: Bachelor of Business Administration Online(OL), 2026-27, July session: Bachelor of Commerce (General) Online(OL), 2026-27, July session: Master of Commerce (General) Online(OL), 2026-27, July session: Master of Arts (Journalism & Mass Communication) Online(OL), 2026-27, July session also lists MA (Economics) and M.Sc (Mathematics) — 9 MUJ online programmes in total for 2026-27 |
| AICTE recognition for MBA | IGNOU describes the online MBA as an AICTE recognized / AICTE approved programme | Portal says the online MBA complies with AICTE norms and that UGC rules do not require AICTE approval for online management/computer applications programmes |
IGNOU Online only
- NIRF ranking: Ranked No. 1 among Open Universities in NIRF 2024 and 2025
- UGC ODL and Online 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)
- AIU recognition: Degrees, diplomas and certificates awarded by IGNOU are recognised by all member institutions of the Association of Indian Universities
Online Manipal (MUJ) only
- NBA accreditation: NBA accreditation listed for MBA 2023-24 to 2025-26 (on-campus listing on the MUJ recognition page; the page does not say it covers the online MBA)
- ODL entitlement: All MUJ rows in the UGC-DEB list are Online mode; none is ODL. MUJ online entitlement rows start in 2021-22.
- Degree award process: Degree certificates via in-person convocation at the MUJ campus or by courier
- Academic Bank of Credits: ABC account mandatory; term-end credits deposited to ABC
More on the IGNOU degree: whether an IGNOU degree is valid and IGNOU degree certificate, migration and convocation.
IGNOU Online vs Online Manipal (MUJ) eligibility: who can enrol
IGNOU Online and Online Manipal (MUJ) accept applications from Indian and international students, but their application processes and specific programme availability differ. IGNOU Online requires applicants to confirm comfort with online learning and access to a computer and internet before enrolling. If not comfortable, students should consider the ODL mode.
For Indian nationals residing in India, IGNOU Online applications are submitted via ignouiop.samarth.edu.in. This portal covers overseas students from SAARC, Non-SAARC, FSRI, and NRI categories for the July 2026 session. International students applying to IGNOU Online programmes pay a one-time application processing fee of INR 2,000 for SAARC applicants and USD 100 for Non-SAARC applicants. Not all online programmes are open to international students; for example, the BCA (Online) is not offered for them.
Online Manipal (MUJ) accepts applications from both Indian and international students. Non-Indian applicants apply via onlinemanipal.com/global and are billed an international fee. IGNOU allows students to pursue two academic programmes simultaneously through ODL or Online mode, subject to specific combinations.
IGNOU Online only
- Online learning comfort: 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 student admission 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
IGNOU entry rules: IGNOU eligibility criteria and IGNOU at a glance.
IGNOU student services
IGNOU Online vs Online Manipal (MUJ) courses offered
IGNOU Online offers 46 programmes for the July 2026 session, while Online Manipal (MUJ) lists 9 online programmes. IGNOU’s offerings include 5 Bachelor’s degrees, 14 Master’s degrees, 10 PG Diplomas, 3 Diplomas, 2 PG Certificates, and 12 Certificates. Online Manipal (MUJ) provides an MBA, MCA, M.Com, MA JMC, MA Economics, M.Sc Mathematics, BBA, BCA, and B.Com.
For Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA), IGNOU Online charges a total fee of Rs. 49,800, excluding registration, development, and examination fees. Online Manipal (MUJ) states a total fee of Rs. 1,44,000 for its Online BCA. The Master of Business Administration (MBA) from IGNOU Online has a total fee of Rs. 66,000, while Online Manipal (MUJ) lists its Online MBA at Rs. 1,84,000.
IGNOU Online’s eligibility for its Bachelor of Commerce (Online) is 10+2 passed or equivalent. For the Online B.Com, Online Manipal (MUJ) requires 10+2 from a recognised board or a 10+3 diploma. The Master of Computer Applications (Online) from IGNOU has a total fee of Rs. 52,000, with an additional Rs. 2,000 for two bridge courses for Category-2 entrants. Online Manipal (MUJ) states a total fee of Rs. 1,64,000 for its Online MCA.
IGNOU Online only
- Bachelor’s degrees offered: BSW, BCA, B.Com, BLIS, Bachelor of Tourism and Travel Management. No BA (General) is listed in online mode.
Minimum and maximum duration
| Programme | IGNOU Online duration | Online Manipal (MUJ) duration |
|---|---|---|
| B.Com | 3 years | 3 years (6 semesters) to 6 years |
| BCA | 3 years to 6 years | 3 years (6 semesters) to 6 years |
| MBA | 2 years to 4 years | 2 years (4 semesters) to 4 years |
| MCA | 2 years to 4 years | 2 years (4 semesters) to 4 years |
| M.Com | 2 years to 4 years | 2 years (4 semesters) to 4 years |
Eligibility as published
| Programme | IGNOU Online eligibility | Online Manipal (MUJ) eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| B.Com | 10+2 passed or equivalent from a recognized institution | 10+2 from a recognised board or 10+3 diploma |
| BCA | 10+2 or its equivalent or A pass in Diploma in Commercial Practice or equivalent | 10+2 from a recognised board or 10+3 diploma |
| MBA | Passed Bachelor Degree of Minimum 3 years duration with at least 50% marks (45% in case of candidates belonging to reserved category). | 10+2+3 bachelor’s degree with min. 50% aggregate (45% reserved categories) |
| MCA | 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/-. | Bachelor’s (10+2+3) in Computer Applications/CS/IT with min. 50% (45% reserved); other streams eligible with compulsory bridge course |
| M.Com | Any graduate or equivalent from a recognised university is eligible for admission | 10+2+3 bachelor’s degree from a recognised university |
IGNOU course guides: IGNOU BA; IGNOU MBA; IGNOU MA; IGNOU MCA and IGNOU syllabus.
IGNOU Online vs Online Manipal (MUJ) fees, course by course
Learners using a loan or financing are not eligible for additional discounts at Online Manipal.
IGNOU Online’s refund policy for the July 2026 session states that fees are refunded before admission confirmation, with a 15% deduction (up to Rs. 2,000) after confirmation. No refund is given after 60 days of the closing date of admissions. Online Manipal states that fees are refunded as per UGC policy if withdrawal occurs leading up to the session starts, and a full refund is given if MUJ cancels or reschedules a batch.
IGNOU Online only
- Refund before admission: Fee paid is refunded (July 2026)
- Refund after admission: 15% of the programme fee, subject to a ceiling of Rs. 2,000, is deducted (July 2026)
- Refund for soft study material: Fee is refunded after deducting the registration fee only (July 2026)
- Refund time limit: No refund after 60 days of the closing date of admissions (July 2026)
- Re-registration fee refund: Not refunded in any case (Common Prospectus July 2026)
- Digital study material discount: The MBAOL handbook states the 15% discount for opting for soft copy is given “for ODL students” (MBAOL Student Handbook and Prospectus, January 2026)
Online Manipal (MUJ) only
- Upfront payment concession: Upfront-payment concession: 15% for MBA, 10% for MCA (full/annual/semester); 10% on full fee and 5% on annual fee for other programmes (Admissions open on 27 Oct 2026 (fee page fetched 2026-10-27))
- Scholarships offered: 20% for Divyaang, defence personnel and families, MUJ alumni; 10% for government employees and merit (80%+); domestic students only; one scholarship at a time (Admissions open on 27 Oct 2026 (fee page fetched 2026-10-27))
- Defence and Divyaang scholarship: 20% for Divyaang and for in-service, retired and outgoing defence personnel and their family (Admissions open on 27 Oct 2026 (fee page fetched 2026-10-27))
- Loan and discount eligibility: Learners using a loan/financing are not eligible for additional discounts (Admissions open on 27 Oct 2026 (fee page fetched 2026-10-27))
- EMI payment option: No-cost EMI (bank partner) for Indian students; EMI is a payment plan, not a lower fee
- PPR vs portal fee: The programme project reports (PPR) published in MUJ’s self-disclosure give different “suggested fees” (e.g. MBA INR 1,75,000; BCA INR 1,35,000; B.Com INR 99,000) than the fees now listed on the portal
- Refund policy: Withdrawal before the session starts: fees refunded as per UGC policy; full refund if MUJ cancels or reschedules a batch
Fees of the programmes both run, as each publishes them
| Programme | IGNOU Online fee | Online Manipal (MUJ) fee |
|---|---|---|
| B.Com | Rs.5000/- per year Plus Registration Fee & Development Fee as applicable (July 2026) | INR 1,05,000 total (INR 17,500 per semester; INR 35,000 per year) (Admissions open on 27 Oct 2026 (fee page fetched 2026-10-27)) |
| BCA | Rs.8300/- per semester Plus Registration Fee & Development Fee as applicable (July 2026) | INR 1,44,000 total (INR 24,000 per semester; INR 48,000 per year) (Admissions open on 27 Oct 2026 (fee page fetched 2026-10-27)) |
| MBA | 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) | INR 1,84,000 total (INR 46,000 per semester; INR 92,000 per year) (Admissions open on 27 Oct 2026 (fee page fetched 2026-10-27)) |
| MCA | Rs.13000/- per semester Plus Registration Fee & Development Fee as applicable (July 2026) | INR 1,64,000 total (INR 41,000 per semester) (Admissions open on 27 Oct 2026 (fee page fetched 2026-10-27)) |
| M.Com | Rs.10200/- per year Plus Registration Fee & Development Fee as applicable (July 2026) | INR 1,08,000 total (INR 27,000 per semester) (Admissions open on 27 Oct 2026 (fee page fetched 2026-10-27)) |
IGNOU fees in full: IGNOU fee structure.
IGNOU Online vs Online Manipal (MUJ) admission: sessions, last dates and portals
IGNOU Online and Online Manipal (MUJ) both offer two admission cycles per year. IGNOU Online’s cycles run in January and July. Online Manipal’s semesters begin on 1 January and 1 July.
IGNOU Online requires a non-refundable registration fee of Rs. 300 and a University Development fee of Rs. 400, both paid at admission on top of the programme fee. Online Manipal charges a non-refundable application fee of INR 500, also paid at admission.
Applicants to IGNOU Online must register on the portal at ignouiop.samarth.edu.in before submitting their form. They need to upload soft copies of their photograph, signature, educational qualifications, experience certificates if applicable, and category certificates if SC/ST/OBC. Online Manipal’s admission steps include registering, paying the application fee, paying the first semester/year/full fee, and uploading documents such as Aadhaar, address proof, and marksheets. Provisional admission is granted until eligibility is met.
IGNOU Online accepts credit cards (Master/Visa), debit cards (Master/Visa/Rupay), net banking, and UPI.
| Point | IGNOU Online | Online Manipal (MUJ) |
|---|---|---|
| Current admission deadline | 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 |
Portal shows “Last date of admission: 27th Oct” with admissions open (as seen 27 Oct 2026) (Admissions open on 27 Oct 2026 (fee page fetched 2026-10-27)) |
| Admission cycles | Two cycles a year: January and July (Common Prospectus July 2026) | Two batches a year: semesters commence 1 January and 1 July (PPR academic calendar) |
| Required documents | Photograph and signature (under 100 KB, JPEG); educational qualification, experience certificate if any, category certificate if SC/ST/OBC (under 200 KB, JPEG/PDF) | Aadhaar (mandatory for Indian citizens), address proof, Class 10 & 12 marksheets, graduation marksheet for PG |
| Application fee | Rs. 300, non-refundable, paid at admission in addition to the programme fee (Common Prospectus July 2026) | Non-refundable application fee of INR 500, paid at admission, in addition to the programme fee (Admissions open on 27 Oct 2026 (fee page fetched 2026-10-27)) |
IGNOU Online only
Online Manipal (MUJ) only
IGNOU admission this session: IGNOU admission 2026; how to apply to IGNOU online; IGNOU admission last date and IGNOU admission status.
IGNOU Online vs Online Manipal (MUJ) study material, classes and study centres
IGNOU Online does not provide printed study material; all self-instructional material is in PDF or other electronic form, uploaded on its Learning Management System (LMS) and eGyankosh. Online Manipal (MUJ) publishes unit-wise e-content on its LMS, including e-tutorial videos with transcripts and self-instructional material.
IGNOU Online delivers online counselling sessions for theory and practical courses, with theory sessions lasting two hours and practical sessions three hours. These sessions are for doubt-clearing, not lectures. Online Manipal (MUJ) delivers classes through live sessions and recorded video lectures on its LMS, supported by discussion forums. For practical sessions, IGNOU Online students use required software at their end, as the university provides no hardware or software. A minimum of 70% attendance is compulsory for each lab course in BCA Online, and 75% for MCA Online practical counselling sessions. Online Manipal (MUJ) states learners must have at least 75% participation in all online activities before the end-semester examination.
IGNOU Online uses a centralised LMS (lms.ignouonline.ac.in) for all online programmes, with credentials sent by email after admission. Regional Centres, such as RC Delhi-3 for BCA_NEWOL and RC Delhi-1 for MCAOL, serve as nodal centres for academic counselling and assignment evaluation.
| Point | IGNOU Online | Online Manipal (MUJ) |
|---|---|---|
| Printed study material | 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 |
Unit-wise e-content on the LMS: e-tutorial videos with transcripts, e-content self-instructional material, discussion forum, MCQ assessments |
| 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 |
Classes delivered through live sessions and recorded video lectures on the LMS, with discussion forums |
| Practical attendance | 70% attendance compulsory for each lab course Minimum 75% attendance in practical counselling sessions to be eligible for term-end practical examinations |
Learner must have at least 75% participation in all online activities before the end-semester examination |
IGNOU Online only
Online Manipal (MUJ) only
IGNOU books and centres: IGNOU study material and IGNOU regional and study centres.
IGNOU Online vs Online Manipal (MUJ) assignments and exams
IGNOU Online and Online Manipal (MUJ) both use assignments and term-end examinations for evaluation, but their weighting and exam modes differ. IGNOU Online requires assignments to be submitted on its LMS portal as PDF files for programmes like the BCA Online and MBA Online. Hard copies are not considered for evaluation.
For the MBA Online, assignments carry a 30% weight, with the term-end examination accounting for 70%. In BCA Online theory courses, continuous evaluation is 25% and the term-end examination is 75%. A learner cannot appear in the term-end examination without submitting the assignment. The last date for assignments for the December 2026 TEE was extended to 31 October 2026.
IGNOU Online conducts term-end examinations twice a year, in June and December. Students choose between Pen & Paper mode or CBT (computer-based test) mode and select an examination centre. For the BCA Online, exams are taken at an allotted examination centre, and no request for a change of centre is entertained after the form is filled. The examination fee is Rs. 200 per course and is not included in the programme fee. For the June 2026 TEE, the examination form submission dates were from 10.03.2026 to 10.04.2026 without a late fee, and until 24.04.2026 with a late fee of Rs. 1,100. Re-evaluation costs Rs. 750 per course and must be applied for within 40 days of result declaration. Assignments, project reports, and practical answer scripts cannot be re-evaluated.
Online Manipal (MUJ) uses continuous internal assessment through assignments, contributing a maximum of 30 marks per course. Learners book exam slots on a first-come-first-served basis, with the system opening three weeks before exams. Revaluation and re-sit fees are charged extra and are not part of the programme fee.
| Point | IGNOU Online | Online Manipal (MUJ) |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment weightage | 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) |
Continuous internal assessment through assignments: maximum 30 marks per course (one assignment for a 2-credit course, two for a 4-credit course) TEE : continuous assessment = 70:30; at least 40% needed in each |
| Exam frequency | Twice a year, in June and December (MBAOL Student Handbook and Prospectus, January 2026) | Term-end exams in the 2nd week of June (January batch) and 2nd week of December (July batch), per PPR tentative calendar |
| 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) |
Term-end examination held digitally, computer-based and online proctored; candidates can sit from home End-semester/term-end exam held with a technology-supported remote proctored examination tool; 3 hours per course |
| Exam fee inclusion in programme fee | Exam fee is not included in the fee structure | Revaluation, resit, duplicate certificates are charged extra |
IGNOU Online only
- Assignment submission method: 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 copy assignment policy: Hard copies submitted at a study centre / Regional Centre / SED are not considered for evaluation (MBAOL Student Handbook and Prospectus, January 2026)
- Assignment prerequisite for exam: A learner cannot appear in the term-end examination of a course without submitting its assignment (MBAOL Student Handbook and Prospectus, January 2026)
- Current assignment deadline: Last date for assignments for the December 2026 TEE extended to 31 October 2026
- Exam centre selection: 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); 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)
- Exam form dates: 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)
- Exam fee per course: Rs. 200 per course (theory / practical / lab) (BCA_NEWOL Programme Guide, July 2025)
Online Manipal (MUJ) only
- Exam slot booking: Learners choose exam slots on a first-come-first-served basis; booking system opens three weeks before exams
- Results and re-sit policy: Results on the student portal; a failed paper (TEE or IA) must be re-sat by applying with fees
- Result timing: Results within eight weeks of the last exam date (Jul-Aug 2025 session calendar)
IGNOU exam cycle: IGNOU assignments; IGNOU date sheet; IGNOU hall ticket and IGNOU result and grade card.
IGNOU Online vs Online Manipal (MUJ) credit transfer, migration and re-admission
Moving between courses or universities is possible for both IGNOU Online and Online Manipal (MUJ), though the specific options differ.
For those wishing to transfer from IGNOU Online, a migration certificate can be requested from the Regional Director for a fee of Rs. 500. Both IGNOU Online and Online Manipal (MUJ) support credit transfer through the Academic Bank of Credits. Online Manipal (MUJ) publishes that its credit transfer system allows learners to accumulate, verify, transfer, and redeem credits.
IGNOU Online only
- Migration certificate: Requested from the Regional Director with a fee of Rs. 500
- MBA 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 Online vs Online Manipal (MUJ) student support and helpline
IGNOU Online and Online Manipal (MUJ) both offer various support channels for their learners. IGNOU Online provides a dedicated Centre for Online Education helpdesk and a Centralised Student Registration Cell for admissions, while Online Manipal (MUJ) offers a helpdesk via email and phone.
IGNOU Online’s Centre for Online Education can be reached at coe@ignou.ac.in and iopsupport@ignouonline.ac.in. For admission queries, the Centralised Student Registration Cell is available at 011-29571301, 011-29571528, and csrc@ignou.ac.in for the July 2026 session. Online Manipal (MUJ) provides support through helpdesk@mujonline.edu.in and a helpline at +91 79966 00444, operational Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 7 pm, and Sunday from 9 am to 2 pm.
For grievances, IGNOU Online uses the iGRAM portal at igram.ignou.ac.in/. Online Manipal (MUJ) addresses grievances through its CDOE Students Grievance Redressal Committee, an Ombudsman, an online grievance registration system, and UGC e-Samadhaan. IGNOU has a Campus Placement Cell, and learners can send resumes to campusplacement@ignou.ac.in. Online Manipal (MUJ) states it offers placement assistance via an AI-powered portal, but no placement rate is published.
IGNOU Online and Online Manipal (MUJ) both offer various support channels for their learners. IGNOU Online provides a dedicated Centre for Online Education helpdesk and a Centralised Student Registration Cell for admissions, while Online Manipal (MUJ) offers a helpdesk via email and phone.
IGNOU Online’s Centre for Online Education can be reached at coe@ignou.ac.in and iopsupport@ignouonline.ac.in. For admission queries, the Centralised Student Registration Cell is available at 011-29571301, 011-29571528, and csrc@ignou.ac.in for the July 2026 session. Online Manipal (MUJ) provides support through helpdesk@mujonline.edu.in and a helpline at +91 79966 00444, operational Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 7 pm, and Sunday from 9 am to 2 pm.
For grievances, IGNOU Online uses the iGRAM portal at igram.ignou.ac.in/. Online Manipal (MUJ) addresses grievances through its CDOE Students Grievance Redressal Committee, an Ombudsman, an online grievance registration system, and UGC e-Samadhaan. IGNOU has a Campus Placement Cell, and learners can send resumes to campusplacement@ignou.ac.in. Online Manipal (MUJ) states it offers placement assistance via an AI-powered portal, but no placement rate is published.
| Point | IGNOU Online | Online Manipal (MUJ) |
|---|---|---|
| Online helpdesk contact | Centre for Online Education: coe@ignou.ac.in and iopsupport@ignouonline.ac.in | helpdesk@mujonline.edu.in; helpline +91 79966 00444 (Mon-Sat 9-7, Sun 9-2) |
| Grievance redressal | iGRAM, igram.ignou.ac.in/ | CDOE Students Grievance Redressal Committee, Ombudsman, online grievance registration and UGC e-Samadhaan |
| Placement assistance | IGNOU has a Campus Placement Cell (CPC); learners send their resume to campusplacement@ignou.ac.in | Placement assistance offered by Online Manipal (the portal), with an AI-powered placement portal; no placement rate stated |
IGNOU Online only
- Admission helpline: Centralised Student Registration Cell: 011-29571301, 011-29571528, csrc@ignou.ac.in (July 2026)
- Device requirements: A computer system with the necessary software for practical courses (BCA Online)
- Course eligibility: Access to computers and the Internet and basic knowledge of word processing are part of the eligibility
Online Manipal (MUJ) only
- Fraud warning: MUJ warns of unauthorised agencies offering help with fees, assignments and passing exams; pay only through official channels
IGNOU portals: IGNOU Samarth portal; IGNOU grievance portal (iGRAM) and IGNOU ID card.
IGNOU Online or Online Manipal (MUJ): which is better for you
For students seeking the lowest fees, IGNOU Online is generally more affordable. For example, the total fee for an Online BCA at IGNOU is Rs. 49,800, while Online Manipal’s BCA costs Rs. 1,44,000. IGNOU also charges a non-refundable registration fee of Rs. 300 and a University Development fee of Rs. 400, in addition to the programme fee. Online Manipal charges a non-refundable application fee of INR 500.
Working professionals who need flexibility in examinations may find Online Manipal more suitable. Its term-end examinations are held digitally, computer-based, and online proctored, allowing candidates to sit from home. IGNOU Online, requires learners to appear at an examination centre for their term-end examinations, which can be in Pen & Paper or CBT mode.
Students prioritising many programme choices may prefer IGNOU Online. For the July 2026 session, IGNOU Online offers 46 programmes, including 5 Bachelor’s degrees and 14 Master’s degrees. Online Manipal lists 9 online programmes, including MBA, MCA, and BCA, for the 2026-27 July session.
For those requiring practical sessions, IGNOU Online states that practical sessions are held only in online mode, and learners use the required software at their own end, as IGNOU provides no hardware or software facility. Online Manipal does not publish specific details on practical session delivery for its programmes.
International students residing outside India can apply to IGNOU Online programmes through a dedicated portal, ignouforeigniop.samarth.edu.in, with a one-time application processing fee of INR 2,000 for SAARC and USD 100 for Non-SAARC applicants. Online Manipal also accepts applications from international students, who apply via onlinemanipal.com/global and are billed an international fee.
Notices and Documents from IGNOU
- IGNOU BCA Newol Programme Guide
- IGNOU Common Prospectus Admission Session July 2026
- 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
- Online MCA Ppr
- Online NAAC Certificate 2020
- Muj Online Notices
- Online Academic Calendar Jul Aug 2025 Sem1
- Online MBA Ppr
- Online Om MBA Muj
- Online Ugc Deb Programme List
- Muj Online Self Disclosure
- Online Muj About
Common IGNOU Questions
Which online university, IGNOU or Manipal, is better suited for learners who prefer structured virtual classes and continuous assessment?
Online Manipal (MUJ) is better suited for learners who prefer structured virtual classes and continuous assessment. MUJ’s online programmes include live sessions and recorded video lectures on the LMS, along with continuous internal assessment through assignments. IGNOU Online, provides online counselling sessions primarily for doubt clearing, not for delivering lectures, and does not provide printed study materials.
How do the total fees for an online MBA compare between IGNOU and Manipal University Jaipur?
The total fee for an online MBA at IGNOU is Rs. 66,000, excluding the registration, development, and examination fees. For Online Manipal (MUJ), the total fee for an online MBA is Rs. 1,84,000. This means the online MBA from MUJ is significantly more expensive than the one from IGNOU.
What is the total fee for a Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) online degree at IGNOU versus Manipal University Jaipur?
The total fee for an online BCA at IGNOU is Rs. 49,800, excluding the registration, development, and examination fees. the total fee for an online BCA at Manipal University Jaipur is Rs. 1,44,000. IGNOU’s online BCA is considerably more affordable than MUJ’s.
Are the online degrees from IGNOU and Manipal University Jaipur recognised by the UGC and AICTE?
IGNOU states it is exempted from UGC (ODL Programme and Online Programme) Regulations, and its online MBA is AICTE recognised. Manipal University Jaipur’s online MBA, MCA, BCA, BBA, B.Com, M.Com, MA JMC, MA Economics, and M.Sc Mathematics are UGC-DEB entitled for 2026-27. MUJ also states its online MBA complies with AICTE norms, though UGC rules do not require AICTE approval for online management/computer applications programmes.
What are the eligibility criteria for an online Master of Computer Applications (MCA) at IGNOU and Manipal University Jaipur?
For IGNOU’s online MCA, candidates must have a BCA or equivalent degree, or a B.Sc./B.Com./B.A. with Mathematics at 10+2 or graduation level. Those in the latter category pay an additional Rs. 2,000 for two bridge courses. Manipal University Jaipur requires a Bachelor’s degree (10+2+3) in Computer Applications/CS/IT with a minimum of 50% aggregate (45% for reserved categories), with other streams eligible with a compulsory bridge course.
What are the admission deadlines for the current July 2026 session for online programmes at IGNOU and Manipal University Jaipur?
For IGNOU Online, the last date for admissions for the July 2026 session is 13 October 2026, except for certificate and semester-based programmes. Online Manipal (MUJ) shows “Last date of admission: 27th Oct” for its current admissions, as seen on 27 October 2026.
How do IGNOU Online and Online Manipal (MUJ) provide study materials and conduct virtual classes?
IGNOU Online provides self-instructional material in PDF or other electronic forms on its LMS and eGyankosh, with no printed study material. Online Manipal (MUJ) offers unit-wise e-content, e-tutorial videos, and discussion forums on its LMS, along with live and recorded video lectures. IGNOU’s online counselling sessions are for doubt clearing, not lectures, while MUJ’s classes are delivered through live sessions.