FAQs for New Students at IGNOU: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re a new student at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), you probably have dozens of questions — and that’s totally normal! IGNOU is one of the largest open universities in the world, offering flexible and affordable education to millions.
Whether you’re a fresh 12th-pass student, a working professional, or returning to academics after a gap, this FAQ guide answers all common questions new students have about the IGNOU system, admission process, assignments, exams, and more.
1. What is IGNOU and how does it work?
IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University) is a central open university established in 1985 by the Government of India. It offers a wide range of UG, PG, diploma, certificate, and doctoral programs through distance and online learning modes.
You study at your own pace using self-learning material (SLM), assignments, and optional support from study centers.
2. How to apply for admission in IGNOU?
You can apply for IGNOU admission through the official online portal:
🔗 https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in
Steps:
- Register with your email and mobile number.
- Fill in your personal and academic details.
- Upload documents (photo, signature, certificates).
- Pay the fee online.
- Submit the form and download confirmation.
Admissions happen twice a year: in January and July cycles.
3. How do I know if my admission is confirmed?
You’ll receive a confirmation email/SMS, and you can check your status on the Samarth portal. Once confirmed, your Enrollment Number and student portal login details will be generated.
📌 Track admission status: https://admission.ignou.ac.in/changeadmdata/admissionstatusnew.asp
4. What is an Enrollment Number?
Your Enrollment Number is a unique 10-digit ID for all official IGNOU activities — exams, assignments, grade cards, and re-registration. You get it after your admission is confirmed.
5. When and how do I get study material?
IGNOU provides study material in two formats:
- Printed books: Delivered by post (can take 4–8 weeks).
- Digital PDF material: Instantly accessible on eGyankosh or IGNOU’s mobile apps.
📱 Download App: IGNOU e-Content on Play Store
6. What is the difference between Regional Centre and Study Centre?
| Centre Type | Role |
| Regional Centre (RC) | Handles admission, re-registration, migration, results, degree dispatch, etc. |
| Study Centre (SC) | Supports academic queries, conducts practicals, helps with assignments, organizes counselling sessions. |
You’ll be assigned both after admission — check your admission confirmation email.
7. What are assignments and why are they important?
Assignments are mandatory internal assessments for each subject. You must submit them before exams for your results to be declared.
✔️ Weightage: Usually 30% of total marks
✔️ Must be handwritten and submitted physically or online, depending on your Study Centre’s rules
✔️ Deadlines are declared each session on IGNOU’s website
8. What is Re-Registration and when do I need to do it?
Re-registration means registering for the next semester or year of your course.
You must re-register every 6 or 12 months (depending on the course) via:
🔗 https://onlinerr.ignou.ac.in/
Don’t wait for your results — re-register before the deadline to avoid late fees.
9. How and when are the Term-End Exams (TEE) conducted?
IGNOU conducts Term-End Examinations twice a year:
- June
- December
✔️ Submit assignments before applying.
✔️ Fill the exam form online around April (for June) and October (for December).
✔️ Download hall ticket/admit card before the exam from the IGNOU site.
10. How can I check my exam results and grade card?
IGNOU publishes results on:
✔️ Use your Enrollment Number
✔️ The grade card shows assignment + theory + practical marks
✔️ Updated in phases (some subjects take longer)
11. How do I contact IGNOU for help?
Here’s how to get help:
- Student Support Email: csrc@ignou.ac.in
- Helpline: 011-29572513, 011-29572514
- iGRAM Portal (for complaints): http://igram.ignou.ac.in
Also, join Telegram or WhatsApp groups of your Regional Centre or course group for peer help.
12. Can I do IGNOU along with a job or another course?
Yes! IGNOU is perfect for:
- Working professionals
- Students doing other full-time degrees
- Homemakers or career changers
UGC allows two degrees simultaneously — so you can do IGNOU with a regular course too (if time permits).
13. What are some mobile apps IGNOU students should use?
- IGNOU e-Content App – Digital study materials
- IGNOU Samarth App – Admission, student profile
- IGNOU Grade Card Checker – Check marks instantly
- Telegram IGNOU groups – For real-time peer support
14. What if I fail or miss an exam/assignment?
Don’t worry — IGNOU is student-friendly.
- You can reappear for failed subjects in the next cycle.
- Re-submit assignments if they are rejected or missed.
- Always check notifications on the IGNOU website.
Conclusion
IGNOU is an empowering platform for self-learners and flexible learners. While the system may feel overwhelming at first, once you understand how it works — it’s smooth, supportive, and ideal for independent study.
Keep exploring, stay updated via official IGNOU sources, and take your learning journey one step at a time!
