Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is one of the world’s largest open universities, established in 1985 to make quality education accessible to all. Recognised by UGC and accredited with a strong NAAC grade, IGNOU offers a wide range of flexible programs from certificates to doctoral degrees through its renowned open and distance learning system. With nationwide and global study centers, IGNOU helps learners balance education with life and career goals.
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is one of the largest open universities in the world, headquartered in New Delhi, India. Established in 1985 by the Government of India, IGNOU was created to democratize access to higher education and make quality learning affordable and flexible for students from all walks of life.
IGNOU operates under the University Grants Commission (UGC) and is recognized by the Government of India. It is renowned for its open and distance learning (ODL) system, which allows students to pursue education without being physically present on campus. This makes IGNOU ideal for learners who need flexibility due to work, family responsibilities, or other commitments.
IGNOU offers a vast range of programs across levels from certificates to doctoral degrees, including:
✔ Certificate Programs
✔ Diploma Courses
✔ Undergraduate (UG) Degrees – e.g., BA, B.Sc, B.Com, BBA, BCA
✔ Postgraduate (PG) Degrees – e.g., MA, M.Sc, MBA, M.Com
✔ Postgraduate Diplomas
✔ M.Phil & Ph.D. Research Programs
These programs cover diverse disciplines such as arts, science, commerce, management, education, engineering technology, social sciences, health sciences, computer applications, and more.
IGNOU’s strength lies in its flexible learning model:
Self-paced learning: Study anytime, from anywhere
Study material: Provided through printed books, online resources, and multimedia
Assignments & exams: Scheduled with flexibility to suit working learners
Online support: Learner support centres across India and online student services
This helps learners to balance education with personal and professional life.
IGNOU is:
✔ Recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC)
✔ Accredited by NAAC with a strong grade
✔ A leader in distance education in India and globally
Because of this recognition, IGNOU’s degrees and certificates are accepted by employers, academic institutions, and government bodies across India and abroad.
IGNOU has a network of regional centres, study centres, and exam centres across India and in several countries worldwide. This makes it accessible to students everywhere, regardless of their location.
✔ Flexible study options – ideal for working professionals, homemakers, and learners with constraints
✔ Affordable education without compromising quality
✔ Wide program selection to suit various career goals
✔ Recognised degrees accepted for employment and further studies
✔ Strong support system with study materials, counselling, and online services
Want to pursue higher education without campus attendance
Need a flexible schedule due to job or personal commitments
Seek affordable, recognized university programs
Wish to upgrade skills or switch careers
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is a central university established in 1985 by an Act of Parliament. Headquartered in New Delhi, IGNOU is the largest open university in the world, providing distance and online education to millions of learners in India and abroad.
IGNOU offers a wide range of programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs (UG): BA, B.Com, B.Sc., BCA, BLIS, etc.
Postgraduate Programs (PG): MA, M.Com, M.Sc., MBA, MCA, MSW, etc.
Diploma & Certificate Programs in management, IT, education, tourism, health, and more
Doctoral Programs (Ph.D.) and M.Phil. in selected disciplines
Yes. IGNOU students can avail:
Government scholarships for SC/ST/OBC, minorities, and economically weaker sections
Fee exemptions and financial assistance for eligible learners through national scholarship portals
Yes. IGNOU degrees are fully accepted by UPSC, SSC, state public service commissions, universities, and private employers, both in India and abroad.