IGNOU Online Admission Process 2026: Step-by-Step Registration Guide

IGNOU Online Admission is the easiest way for students to study from home and earn a valid degree. Every year, lakhs of students apply through IGNOU Online Admission because the process is simple, affordable, and flexible. In 2026, the university continues to offer online admission for many UG, PG, diploma, and certificate courses.

This guide explains the IGNOU Online Admission process 2026 step by step. It is written in easy words so anyone can understand it clearly.

What is IGNOU Online Admission?

IGNOU Online Admission is the digital admission system of Indira Gandhi National Open University. Students can apply online without visiting any office. The full admission process—from registration to fee payment—is done online.

Through IGNOU Online Admission, students can apply for:

• Undergraduate courses
  
  

• Postgraduate courses
  
  

• Diploma programs
  
  

• Certificate courses
  
  

The system is designed for students who want flexible education.

Why Choose IGNOU Online Admission in 2026?

There are many reasons why students prefer IGNOU Online Admission:

• Apply from anywhere in India
  
  

• Low course fees
  
  

• UGC-recognized degrees
  
  

• Study while working
  
  

• Simple online process
  
  

• No daily college attendance
  
  

Because of these benefits, IGNOU Online Admission remains popular in 2026.

IGNOU Online Admission 2026: Important Sessions

IGNOU usually offers two admission cycles:

1. January Session
   
   

2. July Session
   
   

Most courses are available in both sessions. During IGNOU Online Admission, students must select the correct session before applying.

Always check the official admission portal during IGNOU Online Admission to confirm course availability.

Courses Available Through IGNOU Online Admission

During IGNOU Online Admission, students can apply for many programs, such as:

Undergraduate Courses

• BA
  
  

• BCom
  
  

• BSc
  
  

• BCA
  
  

• BSW
  
  

Postgraduate Courses

• MA
  
  

• MCom
  
  

• MSc
  
  

• MBA
  
  

• MSW
  
  

Diploma & Certificate Courses

• PG Diploma programs
  
  

• Skill-based certificate courses
  
  

The course list may change each year, so always check the official IGNOU Online Admission portal.

Eligibility Criteria for IGNOU Online Admission

Eligibility depends on the course you choose. However, some basic rules apply to IGNOU Online Admission:

• UG courses: 10+2 pass
  
  

• PG courses: Graduation from a recognized university
  
  

• Diploma/Certificate: Varies by program
  
  

Before starting IGNOU Online Admission, read the eligibility details carefully. Applying without eligibility can lead to rejection.

Documents Required for IGNOU Online Admission

Keep these documents ready before starting IGNOU Online Admission:

• Recent passport-size photo
  
  

• Scanned signature
  
  

• 10th and 12th mark sheets
  
  

• Graduation mark sheets (for PG)
  
  

• Category certificate (if applicable)
  
  

• Experience certificate (if required)
  
  

• Valid email ID and mobile number
  
  

Uploading correct documents is very important during IGNOU Online Admission.

IGNOU Online Admission 2026: Step-by-Step Registration Guide

Now let us understand the IGNOU Online Admission process step by step.

Step 1: Visit the Official Admission Portal

Go to the official IGNOU admission website. Choose the IGNOU Online Admission link for the current session.

Make sure you are on the official website only.

Step 2: New Registration

If you are a new student:

• Click on “New Registration”
  
  

• Enter your name, email ID, and mobile number
  
  

• Create a username and password
  
  

You will receive login details on your email and mobile. These details are required for IGNOU Online Admission login.

Step 3: Login to IGNOU Online Admission Portal

Use your username and password to log in. After login, you can start filling the IGNOU Online Admission form.

Step 4: Select Course and Session

Choose:

• Course name
  
  

• Program code
  
  

• Admission session (January or July)
  
  

Selecting the correct course is very important in IGNOU Online Admission.

Step 5: Fill Personal and Academic Details

Enter details such as:

• Name
  
  

• Date of birth
  
  

• Gender
  
  

• Category
  
  

• Educational qualification
  
  

All details must match your certificates. Wrong information can cause problems in IGNOU Online Admission later.

Step 6: Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies of:

• Photograph
  
  

• Signature
  
  

• Certificates
  
  

Follow the size and format instructions mentioned in IGNOU Online Admission portal.

Step 7: Choose Study Centre (If Required)

Some programs require a study centre selection. Choose the nearest centre during IGNOU Online Admission.

This centre will help with study material, assignments, and exams.

Step 8: Pay IGNOU Online Admission Fees

Pay the course fee online using:

• Debit card
  
  

• Credit card
  
  

• Net banking
  
  

• UPI
  
  

Once the fee is paid, it is usually non-refundable, so check all details before payment in IGNOU Online Admission.

Step 9: Submit the Application

After payment:

• Review the form
  
  

• Submit the application
  
  

• Download the confirmation receipt
  
  

This completes the IGNOU Online Admission process.

After IGNOU Online Admission: What Happens Next?

After completing IGNOU Online Admission:

• Admission confirmation is sent by email/SMS
  
  

• Enrollment number is generated
  
  

• Study material details are shared
  
  

• Assignment and exam updates are available online
  
  

Students should regularly check the IGNOU website after IGNOU Online Admission.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During IGNOU Online Admission

Many students make small mistakes during IGNOU Online Admission. Avoid these:

• Wrong email or mobile number
  
  

• Uploading unclear documents
  
  

• Selecting wrong course code
  
  

• Paying fees without checking eligibility
  
  

• Missing final submission
  
  

Being careful helps your IGNOU Online Admission get approved smoothly.

Fee Refund Rules for IGNOU Online Admission

IGNOU has clear refund rules:

• Refund allowed only within the given time
  
  

• Deduction may apply
  
  

• After confirmation, fees are mostly non-refundable
  
  

Always read refund rules during IGNOU Online Admission.

Why IGNOU Online Admission is Best for Working Students

IGNOU Online Admission is ideal for working professionals because:

• No daily classes
  
  

• Study anytime
  
  

• Flexible exams
  
  

• Valid degree
  
  

Many students choose IGNOU Online Admission to balance job and studies.

Final Words

The IGNOU Online Admission Process 2026 is simple if you follow the steps correctly. From registration to payment, everything is online and student-friendly. With low fees, flexible learning, and recognized degrees, IGNOU Online Admission remains one of the best options for higher education in India.

If you are planning to study in 2026, complete your IGNOU Online Admission early to avoid last-minute issues.