IGNOU Admission 2026: Complete FAQ on Online Registration, Application Form, Fees & Eligibility

Planning to enroll in IGNOU for your distance or online degree in 2026? Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), a top UGC-recognized university, offers admission for January and July sessions through its online portal. This FAQ guide answers the most searched student questions about IGNOU Admission 2026 including registration, documents, fee payment, refund rules, and confirmation timelines based on the latest official updates.

IGNOU Admission 2026: Top FAQs Answered

1. Is IGNOU online registration compulsory?

Yes. Every applicant must register online before filling the admission form. Registration requires a valid email ID and mobile number at ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in.

2. Is an email ID mandatory for the IGNOU application?

Absolutely. A unique and active email address is essential for registration and communication regarding updates or confirmations.

3. What if the internet or power fails during my IGNOU application?

No worries. IGNOU’s system saves your application data automatically once you click “Save.” Simply log in again using your credentials to continue from where you left off.

4. Step-by-step guide for IGNOU 2026 online admission

• Visit ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in
• Register with your email and mobile number
• Log in and fill out personal and academic details
• Upload documents (photo, signature, marksheets: 100–200 KB each)
• Tick the declaration box after reviewing all details
• Pay the program fee using debit/credit card or net banking
• Receive confirmation via SMS/email
• Download and save your filled application form

5. What are the accepted payment methods for the IGNOU application fee?

IGNOU accepts Visa/MasterCard credit or debit cards and net banking. The non-refundable application fee for most programs in 2026 is ₹300.

6. What if payment is deducted but I don’t receive confirmation?

Don’t panic. Keep your transaction details (control number, amount, course applied). Contact IGNOU at csrc@ignou.ac.in or submit a ticket at igram.ignou.ac.in.

7. What confirmation do I receive after payment?

You’ll receive SMS and email alerts about payment confirmation and further admission steps. Always save or print these communications.

8. What happens after successful form submission?

The regional centre team verifies your application. Once approved, the admission confirmation and study centre details are sent to your registered email.

9. How long does IGNOU admission confirmation take in 2026?

The time varies by centre, but applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Apply early to avoid delay.

10. Is the IGNOU admission fee refundable?

Yes, as per IGNOU’s refund policy. If your application is rejected, the refund is processed to the original payment source after deducting processing charges. Check the latest refund policy in the Common Prospectus.

11. Do IGNOU online students get access to library and study centres?

Yes, all registered students whether online or offline can access library resources, digital content, and local study centres.

12. How does the IGNOU credit system work?

One credit equals 30 hours of academic learning. Undergraduate programs such as BA, BCom, and BCA require 120–132 credits for successful completion.

13. What is IGNOU’s evaluation system?

IGNOU follows continuous assessment through tutor-marked assignments (TMAs), projects, practicals, and term-end examinations (TEE). Assignment submission is mandatory before exams.

14. Can I enroll in two IGNOU courses at once?

You can pursue one certificate course (6 months) along with one full-length degree or diploma course. However, two degree-level programs simultaneously are not allowed under UGC norms.

15. Are IGNOU degrees recognized?

Yes. All IGNOU programs are UGC-approved and recognized by AIU and AICTE. The university holds NAAC A++ accreditation and enjoys global recognition for Open and Distance Learning (ODL).

Important Tip for Applicants

Stay updated with official announcements on ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in. You can also join trusted student groups on WhatsApp or Telegram for real-time discussions about admission status, assignment updates, and study materials.