The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has officially opened the admission process for its January 2026 academic session for Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes. Interested and eligible candidates can now apply online through the official IGNOU admission portal at http://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in. The registration process began on December 16, 2025, and the last date to submit applications is January 31, 2026.
IGNOU offers more than 200 undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, certificate, and doctoral programmes, making it one of the largest providers of distance education in India. The Online and ODL mode is designed to offer flexibility and accessibility, enabling learners from diverse backgrounds to pursue higher education while balancing professional and personal commitments.
The Fresh Admission for the January, 2026 session for the notified programmes offered in ODL has commenced on the Portal. Portal may be referred for the notified Programmes. The last date of Fresh Admissions for the January, 2026 Session is 31st Jan, 2026https://t.co/7U6I9tD8AF
— IGNOU (@OfficialIGNOU) December 16, 2025
IGNOU January 2026 Admissions: Important Dates
| Registration Start Date | December 16, 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | January 31, 2026 |
| Mode of Admission | Open and Distance Learning (ODL) |
| Official Website | https://www.ignou.ac.in/ |
Note: Re-registration for existing students had commenced earlier on December 2, 2025, and will also remain open until January 31, 2026.
How to Apply for IGNOU January 2026 ODL Admissions
Students can apply for these courses online through the official IGNOU admission portal: http://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in. The application process involves filling out the form with personal and academic details, paying the required fees, and submitting the form.
1) Visit the official IGNOU admission portal: http://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in
2) Register yourself using a valid email ID and mobile number
3) Fill in the application form with personal and academic details
4) Upload the required documents in the prescribed format
5) Pay the application fee and submit the form
6) Download and keep a copy of the confirmation page for future reference
Applicants are advised to ensure that all details are accurate, as incomplete or incorrect submissions may result in delays or rejection.
Documents Required for IGNOU January 2026 Admission
1) DEB ID is mandatory for submission of application. You need to create your DEB ID before starting the application process. To know more, please click here https://www.ignou.ac.in/viewFile/SRD/notification/DEBIDCreation.pdf
2) You need to attach all the documents required. Make sure to attach all the scanned copies of your documents.
3) Provide a scanned signature with a file size of less than 100 KB.
4) Submit a scanned photograph with a file size of less than 100 KB.
5) If you’re from the SC/ST/OBC category, include a scanned copy of your Category Certificate with a file size of less than 200 KB.
6) Upload scanned copies of your Relevant Educational Qualifications with a file size of less than 200 KB.
7) If applicable, a scanned copy of your Experience Certificate (size should be less than 200 KB).
Programmes and Eligibility
Admissions to most IGNOU programmes are merit-based, determined by marks obtained in the qualifying examination. However, certain programmes such as B.Ed, MPhil, PhD, and Post-Basic BSc Nursing require candidates to qualify in entrance examinations conducted by the university.
Scholarships Options
Students can apply for Government of India Scholarships on the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) after confirmation of admission.
Watch video for how to fill online application!
Registration fee, Cancellation of Admission and Refund of Fee
– Registration Fee is non-refundable.
– Fee refund is possible before confirmation of admission.
– After confirmation, 15% of the programme fee (up to ₹2,000) will be deducted for cancellations.
– For students opting for soft copy of study material, only the Registration Fee will be deducted.
– Students with fee exemption (who paid only Registration & Development Fee) will receive a refund of the Development Fee only.
– No refund will be processed after 60 days from the admission closing date.
– For details, refer to the Common Prospectus.
Why Choose IGNOU?
IGNOU continues to be a preferred choice for millions of learners due to its flexible learning structure, affordable education, and nationwide support system. The university’s ODL framework empowers students to learn at their own pace while maintaining academic quality and inclusivity.
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