How to Apply for IGNOU BCA Admission Online via Samarth Portal
Part of IGNOU Programmes: Explore the IGNOU Courses List for July 2026 Admission and Fees
Indira Gandhi National Open University, officially known as IGNOU, offers the Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) programme through its open distance learning and online education portals for the July 2026 and January 2027 academic sessions. Designed under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 framework, the programme provides flexible individualized learning with course-wise registration across six semesters. Learners access digital study material through eGyanKosh, complete continuous assignment evaluations, and attend practical lab sessions coordinated by Regional Centres. This page outlines the eligibility criteria, fee structure, course subjects, assignment deadlines, and step-by-step online application procedure for prospective and enrolled learners.
IGNOU BCA Course Structure: Six Semesters and Credit Pattern
Indira Gandhi National Open University structures the Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) curriculum across six semesters using a credit-based evaluation pattern. Each credit requires 30 hours of comprehensive learning activities, including self-study printed blocks, video lectures, and practical laboratory exercises. Students take foundational courses in computer basics, mathematics, business organization, data structures, and software engineering. Evaluation combines continuous internal assessment through assignments with end-of-term theory and practical examinations.
IGNOU BCA Semester-Wise Syllabus and Course Codes
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Component Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | FEG-02 | Foundation Course in English-2 | Theory |
| Semester 1 | ECO-01 | Business Organization | Theory |
| Semester 1 | BCS-011 | Computer Basics and PC Software | Theory & Viva |
| Semester 1 | BCS-012 | Basic Mathematics | Theory |
| Semester 1 | BCSL-013 | Computer Basics and PC Software Lab | Practical Lab |
| Semester 2 | ECO-02 | Accountancy-1 | Theory |
| Semester 2 | MCS-011 | Problem Solving and Programming | Theory |
| Semester 2 | MCS-012 | Computer Organisation and Assembly Language Programming | Theory |
| Semester 3 | MCS-021 | Data and File Structures | Theory |
| Semester 3 | MCS-023 | Introduction to Database Management Systems | Theory |
| Semester 3 | MCS-014 | Systems Analysis and Design | Theory |
| Semester 3 | BCS-031 | Programming in C++ | Theory |
| Semester 3 | BCSL-032 | C++ Programming Lab | Practical Lab |
| Semester 3 | BCSL-033 | Data and File Structures Lab | Practical Lab |
| Semester 3 | BCSL-034 | DBMS Lab | Practical Lab |
IGNOU BCA Fee Structure: Base Programme and Evaluation Fees
The fee structure for the Bachelor of Computer Applications programme at Indira Gandhi National Open University includes the base programme fee alongside compulsory practical and project evaluation fees introduced by the Academic Council. Students pay practical examination fees and project report evaluation fees online while filling out their term-end examination forms. IGNOU has not published the total 3-year BCA programme fee for the July 2026 session on its portal as of 24 October 2026. However, prescribed fee rates for lab exams, project evaluations, and course modifications are fixed across all undergraduate degree programmes.
IGNOU Additional Fee Slabs for Practical and Project Components
| Fee Component | Course Credit Level | Fee Amount (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Practical Examination Fee | Up to 4 Credits | Rs. 150 per course |
| Practical Examination Fee | Above 4 Credits | Rs. 300 per course |
| Project Evaluation Fee | Up to 4 Credits | Rs. 300 per project |
| Project Evaluation Fee | 5 to 8 Credits | Rs. 500 per project |
| Elective Course Change (UG) | 2 or 4 Credits | Rs. 350 per course |
| Elective Course Change (UG) | 6 or 8 Credits | Rs. 700 per course |
IGNOU BCA Eligibility: 10+2 Qualification Criteria
Indira Gandhi National Open University admits candidates into the Bachelor of Computer Applications programme based on flexible open learning criteria under National Education Policy guidelines. Applicants must have completed 10+2 higher secondary education or its equivalent from a recognized board. IGNOU offers individual study flexibility allowing candidates to set their own pace within the standard three-year minimum duration. Persons with Disabilities holding a 40 percent or higher disability certificate receive extra time extensions to ensure equitable academic completion.
- Minimum Qualification: Successful completion of 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized education board.
- Standard Duration: Minimum 3 years (6 semesters) required to complete all credits and practicals.
- Disability Relaxation: Learners with 40% or more disability receive an additional 2 years beyond the standard maximum duration.
- Reserved Categories: Reserved seats and fee support apply for SC, ST, OBC non-creamy layer, EWS, Kashmiri Migrants, and War Widows as per Government of India rules.
- SC/ST Fee Support: Scheme of fee support is available for eligible SC/ST students enrolling in undergraduate programmes.
IGNOU student services
IGNOU BCA Assignments: 25 to 30 Percent Term-End Weightage
Submission of tutor-marked assignments is compulsory for all Bachelor of Computer Applications students prior to appearing in the Term-End Examinations. Assignments carry a 25 percent to 30 percent weightage in final course grades and must be submitted directly to the Study Centre Coordinator. Students must submit assignments for all enrolled courses before the announced cut-off dates to gain eligibility for theory and lab practical exams. Failure to submit assignments on time prevents learners from sitting for corresponding end-semester assessments.
IGNOU BCA Assignment Submission Deadlines by Academic Session
| Academic Session | Assignment Cut-off Date | Submission Location |
|---|---|---|
| July 2025 Session | 31 October 2025 | Study Centre Coordinator |
| January 2026 Session | 30 April 2026 | Study Centre Coordinator |
| July 2026 Session | 31 October 2026 | Study Centre Coordinator |
| January 2027 Session | 30 April 2027 | Study Centre Coordinator |
IGNOU BCA Admission Application: IGNOU and Samarth Portals
Prospective candidates applying for the Bachelor of Computer Applications degree submit their applications online through the IGNOU Online Programme Admission Portal or the Samarth Admission Portal. Applicants must register using an active email address and mobile number to create personal login credentials. All application documents, photographs, and certificates must be uploaded in clear scanned formats before paying the non-refundable registration fee. If any discrepancy is flagged in the application form, IGNOU notifies the student to upload corrected documents within a stipulated timeframe before final processing.
- Visit the official admission portal at IGNOU Online Programme Portal or Samarth Admission Portal.
- Click on new registration and enter a valid email ID, active mobile number, and set a password.
- Log in using the newly generated credentials and complete the personal profile details.
- Select the Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) programme and choose your preferred Regional Centre and Learner Support Centre.
- Upload scanned copies of your passport-size photograph, signature, 10th class mark sheet, 12th class passing certificate, and category certificate if applicable.
- Pay the non-refundable registration fee and programme fee online using net banking, debit card, credit card, or UPI.
- Save and download the submitted application form and fee payment receipt for future reference.
IGNOU BCA Practicals and Project: BCSL Lab Courses and Term-End Exams
Practical lab courses and final semester project work form integral parts of the Bachelor of Computer Applications degree at IGNOU. To appear for Term-End Practical Examinations in lab courses such as BCSL-013, BCSL-021, or BCSL-032, students must maintain minimum required attendance in lab sessions and submit assignments on time. Final year students complete the BCSP-064 project course and participate in online viva voce evaluations conducted via Google Meet by assigned Regional Centres. Students submit proof of online practical fee payment when appearing for lab tests.
- Practical Attendance: Fulfilling minimum lab attendance requirements is mandatory to take term-end practical exams.
- Lab Fee Payment: Online practical examination receipts must be presented at the time of appearing for lab examinations.
- Project Viva Evaluation: Online viva voce for the final semester project course BCSP64 was held on 8 September 2026 and 9 September 2026 for scheduled batches.
- Project Submission Receipt: Online project evaluation fee receipts must be attached alongside final project report submissions.
IGNOU BCA Detail Corrections: Learner Support and Regional Centres
Enrolled candidates requiring corrections in personal details, address updates, or study material dispatches must submit official requests through designated channels. Learner Support Centres and Regional Centres handle administrative corrections using printed proformas provided in the BCA Programme Guide. If document discrepancies arise during admission registration, candidates must rectify the issue online within the time allowed by the university. Learners experiencing persistent issues can register formal complaints on the IGNOU Student Grievances Portal (iGRAM).
- Address Correction: Submit the printed proforma available in the Programme Guide directly to the concerned Regional Director.
- Admission Discrepancy Resolution: Candidates receive intimation via SMS and email to remove document discrepancies within a stipulated timeframe.
- Course Code Revision: Pre-revised BCA students needing old assignment papers must download 2012 assignments and submit them by 30 April or 30 October.
- Grievance Redressal: Register administrative and academic queries through the iGRAM Student Grievances Portal.
Where to go on the IGNOU site
- Register for IGNOU BCA admission on Samarthsamarth.edu.in ↗
- Apply for IGNOU online BCA programmeignouiop.samarth.edu.in ↗
- Submit student grievances on iGRAM portaligram.ignou.ac.in ↗
- Log in to IGNOU Student Portal Samarthignou.samarth.edu.in ↗
Key facts
- Programme Code: BCA
- Academic System: Semester-wise Credit System (1 Credit = 30 Study Hours)
- Assignment Deadline (July Session): 31 October 2025
- Assignment Deadline (January Session): 30 April 2026
- Practical Exam Fee (up to 4 credits): Rs. 150 per course
- Project Evaluation Fee (up to 4 credits): Rs. 300 per course
- Admission Portal: Samarth Online Admission Portal
Notices and Documents from IGNOU
- IGNOU BCA Course BCSP64 Viva Voce Schedule September 2026 PDF — BCA project BCSP64 viva schedule PDF notification
- IGNOU Common Prospectus Admission Session July 2026 PDF — IGNOU Common Prospectus PDF for admission rules
- BCA Revised 1st Sem Assignment PDF — BCA Revised 1st Semester assignment PDF download
Common IGNOU Questions
What is the per-paper exam fee for IGNOU Term-End Examinations?
IGNOU charges practical examination fees based on course credit slabs rather than a flat per-paper fee. For courses up to 4 credits, the practical exam fee is Rs. 150 per course, while courses above 4 credits incur a fee of Rs. 300 per course. Students pay these practical fees online through the examination portal when submitting their Term-End Examination forms.
Is there an upper age limit for taking admission in IGNOU?
No, Indira Gandhi National Open University does not prescribe any upper age limit for admission to the Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) programme. Candidates of any age who have passed 10+2 higher secondary examination from a recognized board are eligible to apply. Admissions follow flexible open distance learning rules under NEP 2020.
What are the assignment submission deadlines for IGNOU BCA courses?
For the July 2025 session, the IGNOU BCA assignment submission deadline is 31 October 2025, while January 2026 session learners must submit by 30 April 2026. Submission before these due dates is compulsory to become eligible for corresponding Term-End Examinations and practical lab tests. Assignments carry 25% to 30% weightage and must be submitted directly to the Study Centre Coordinator. Pre-revised BCA students needing older assignments must download 2012 papers and submit them accordingly.
What is the project evaluation fee for IGNOU BCA final project BCSP-064?
The project evaluation fee for IGNOU BCA project work depends on the course credit slab as approved by the Academic Council. For project courses up to 4 credits, the fee is Rs. 300, whereas project courses carrying 5 to 8 credits incur a fee of Rs. 500. Students submit the online receipt of project evaluation fees along with their project report.
How much extra time do Persons with Disabilities (PwD) get to complete IGNOU BCA?
Learners with a disability of 40 percent or more are allowed an additional 2 years beyond the maximum duration prescribed for the BCA programme. This relaxation is provided under IGNOU general guidelines across all academic degree programmes. Candidates must submit a valid disability certificate during admission to avail of this extension.
How can I apply for online BCA admission at IGNOU?
Candidates apply for IGNOU online BCA admission through the IGNOU Online Programme Admission Portal or Samarth Admission Portal. First, complete new registration using an active email ID and mobile number to obtain login credentials. Next, log in to complete your profile, select BCA, upload scanned 10+2 mark sheets, photo, and signature, and pay fees online. If document discrepancies arise during verification, IGNOU sends alerts via email and SMS to upload corrected documents promptly.
What is the fee for changing an elective course in IGNOU undergraduate programmes?
IGNOU permits undergraduate students to change an elective course within 30 days of receiving their first set of study material. For 2-credit or 4-credit courses, the fee is Rs. 350 per course, while 6-credit or 8-credit courses incur a fee of Rs. 700. Learners must submit their request along with a Demand Draft payable to IGNOU at their concerned Regional Centre. Requests submitted directly to headquarters without proper documentation will not be entertained.
What are the attendance and fee requirements for IGNOU BCA practical lab examinations?
To appear in IGNOU BCA Term-End Practical Examinations for lab courses like BCSL-013, students must fulfill minimum lab attendance requirements and submit assignments on time. Practical examination fees are Rs. 150 per course for subjects up to 4 credits and Rs. 300 for courses above 4 credits. Students pay these fees online when submitting their TEE forms and must present the payment receipt during practical exams. Failing attendance requirements prevents exam eligibility.
When were the viva voce exams conducted for the IGNOU BCA project BCSP64?
IGNOU conducted the online viva voce examinations for the final semester BCA project course BCSP64 on 8 September 2026 and 9 September 2026. Evaluation fees for project courses carrying 5 to 8 credits are fixed at Rs. 500 per project under Academic Council guidelines. Students pay this fee online during TEE form submission and attach the receipt with their final project report. Candidates missing scheduled viva slots must contact their Regional Centre for administrative assistance.
How can enrolled students update their address in IGNOU official records?
Enrolled learners must submit an address correction request using the printed proforma available in the BCA Programme Guide directly to their concerned Regional Director. The Regional Director updates the student database and forwards the corrected details to the Registrar of the Student Registration Division at Maidan Garhi, New Delhi. Address correction requests sent directly to headquarters or unapproved university offices will be rejected without processing. Learners can also download the proforma from the official portal.
Does IGNOU offer fee support for SC and ST students applying for BCA?
Yes, IGNOU provides a Scheme of Fee Support for eligible Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) students enrolling in undergraduate degree programmes like BCA. Applicants must select the fee support option during online registration on the Samarth portal and upload valid self-attested category certificates. Seats and fee concessions follow Government of India reservation guidelines. Submitting forged category documents leads to immediate cancellation of admission and appropriate legal action under national regulations.
What happens if an applicant submits an incomplete application for IGNOU BCA admission?
Indira Gandhi National Open University summarily rejects incomplete online application forms or forms with wrong course options without prior intimation to applicants. Candidates must carefully complete all profile columns and upload clear self-attested scanned copies of required certificates on the Samarth portal. If document discrepancies are flagged during verification, IGNOU sends alerts via email and SMS to upload corrected documents within a specified timeframe. Applicants failing to rectify discrepancies risk cancellation of their admission.
How can students submit administrative grievances regarding IGNOU BCA admission?
Indira Gandhi National Open University allows enrolled learners to register administrative and academic complaints online through the iGRAM Student Grievances Portal. Candidates can submit their queries on igram.ignou.ac.in by providing their enrolment details and specific problem description. For address corrections or study centre changes, learners must submit the printed proforma directly to their concerned Regional Director rather than university headquarters. The Regional Director updates the student database and forwards details to the Student Registration Division at Maidan Garhi.
What are the assignment submission deadlines for the July 2026 and January 2027 IGNOU BCA sessions?
For the July 2026 session, IGNOU BCA learners must submit their assignments to their Study Centre Coordinator by 31 October 2026. Learners enrolled in the January 2027 session must submit their assignment responses by 30 April 2027. Fulfilling assignment submission before these due dates is compulsory to become eligible for the corresponding Term-End Examinations. Assignments carry a 25% to 30% weightage toward the final course evaluation across all six semesters.
How can IGNOU BCA students apply for Government of India scholarships online?
Learners enrolled in IGNOU BCA are eligible to apply for Government of India scholarships through the National Scholarship Portal at scholarships.gov.in. Applicants must submit their scholarship applications directly online on the portal and upload the required supporting documents. Students needing additional guidance regarding eligibility verification or application endorsement can contact their respective IGNOU Regional Centre. Eligible SC and ST candidates can also select fee support options on the Samarth portal.
How many study hours are required per credit for IGNOU BCA courses?
Indira Gandhi National Open University requires 30 hours of student study for each academic credit in the BCA programme. This learning time includes reading print materials, watching videos, attending counselling sessions, and completing continuous assignments. Consequently, a standard 4-credit BCA course for the July 2026 or January 2027 session requires 120 total study hours. Learners can access digital learning materials online via the eGyanKosh portal or the IGNOU e-Content Mobile App.
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