IGNOU INFORMATION
The University is dedicated to excellence and quality in all of its endeavors as an organization. By pooling professional skills and resources, the university hopes to play a proactive role as a system leader in upholding and coordinating the nation's distance education standards. The University is also going through the NAAC Accreditation process as a system leader in ODL.
Key Recognitions & Legal Status
Central University by an Act of Parliament
- IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University) is a Central University established by an Act of Parliament (1985). This gives it constitutional legitimacy in India.
NAAC Accreditation
- IGNOU is accredited with NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). The grade (A / A++ etc.) supports its academic credibility.
Distance Education Bureau (DEB)
- The DEB is a statutory body under UGC which regulates distance/online learning in India. IGNOU’s programmes are recognized by DEB.
University Grants Commission (UGC)
- IGNOU is recognized by the UGC. All its degree / diploma / certificate programmes (including distance / online modes) are under the regulatory oversight of UGC, and many of them are approved through UGC’s Distance Education Bureau (DEB).
Association of Indian Universities (AIU)
- IGNOU’s degrees/diplomas/certificates are recognized by AIU. That means the credentials are accepted as equivalent to those from other Indian universities for many purposes (higher education, employment etc.).
Equivalence with Regular Degrees
- The degrees/diplomas/certificates from IGNOU are equivalent to ones awarded by regular (campus-based) Indian universities, provided the IGNOU programmes are UGC/DEB-approved etc.
Valid for Competitive Exams, Government Jobs, Higher Studies
- - Applying to government jobs (central / state) and public sector examinations.
- - Appearing for UGC‐NET, SET, etc.
- - For admission into other universities (for further studies, masters / PhD) subject to meeting eligibility criteria.
Other Regulatory Bodies for Professional Courses
- - AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education): For certain programmes (e.g. MBA, MCA) IGNOU has AICTE approval.
- - NCTE (National Council for Teacher Education): For B.Ed programmes etc.
- - INC (Indian Nursing Council): For nursing-related programmes.
Who Should Consider a Distance & Online Program from IGNOU?
IGNOU’s Distance & Online Programs are designed for learners who need flexibility, affordability, and recognized qualifications. They are ideal for:
1. Working Professionals
- Those who want to upgrade their skills or pursue higher education without leaving their jobs.
- Flexible schedules make it easy to balance work and study.
2. Students in Remote or Rural Areas
- Learners who may not have access to regular universities nearby.
- IGNOU provides nationwide study centers, online classes, and e-resources.
3. Homemakers & Career Restarters
- Individuals who took a career break and now want to restart their academic or professional journey.
- Online mode allows them to study from home at their own pace.
4. Government & Competitive Exam Aspirants
- IGNOU degrees are recognized by UGC and valid for UPSC, SSC, State PSCs, and other competitive exams.
5. International Students
- Learners outside India who want affordable, globally recognized qualifications without relocating.
6. Cost-Conscious Learners
- Students looking for affordable education without compromising on recognition and quality.
7. Lifelong Learners & Skill Upgraders
- Individuals keen on professional certificates, diplomas, or second degrees for personal or career development.
8. Professionals in Regulated Fields
- Teachers, nurses, social workers, and others who need UGC / NCTE / INC approved programs to upgrade qualifications.
Why Choose IGNOU for Higher Studies in Online & ODL?
Benefit from UGC & Government Recognition, Flexible Learning Options, Affordable Education, and many more:
1. UGC & Govt. Recognition
- IGNOU is a Central University established by an Act of Parliament (1985).
- All its Online & ODL programs are recognized by UGC–DEB, AICTE (for technical), NCTE (for teacher education), INC (for nursing), etc.
- Degrees are valid for government jobs, competitive exams, and higher education.
2. Flexibility of Learning
- Study anytime, anywhere with recorded lectures, digital content, and self-paced modules.
- Perfect for working professionals, homemakers, and international students.
3. Affordable & Accessible
- IGNOU offers quality education at low fees, making higher education accessible to all sections of society.
- Extensive scholarships and fee concessions for eligible categories.
4. Nationwide & Global Reach
- Largest university in the world by enrollment.
- Over 67 regional centers and 2000+ learner support centers in India, with presence in 40+ countries.
5. Wide Range of Programs
- 200+ programmes across disciplines: Arts, Science, Commerce, Management, IT, Education, Social Work, Health Sciences, and more.
- From certificate to PhD, IGNOU covers every stage of education.
6. Equivalence with Regular Degrees
- IGNOU Online/ODL degrees are treated at par with regular university degrees by UGC and AIU.
- Accepted for higher studies in India and abroad.
7. Robust Digital Ecosystem
- Online admission, digital study material, e-content, mobile apps, online examinations, and e-GyanKosh digital library.
- Blended approach with live classes, recorded lectures, and e-mentoring.
8. Supportive Learner Services
- Regional centers, online counseling, helplines, grievance redressal, and dedicated support teams for students.
9. Strong Alumni & Employer Acceptance
- IGNOU alumni are placed in government, PSU, corporate, teaching, healthcare, and international organizations.
10. Lifelong Learning Approach
- No age bar for most programs.
- Suitable for professionals, students, homemakers, retired persons, and lifelong learners.