Latest Updates from Indira Gandhi National Open University

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is one of the largest open universities in the world, offering a plethora of courses through distance education mode. Established in 1985, IGNOU has been a pioneer in providing accessible and flexible education to a diverse range of learners. The university offers programs at the certificate, diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels across various disciplines.

As a significant player in the field of distance education, IGNOU constantly updates its programs, policies, and initiatives to meet the evolving needs of learners. In this article, we will explore some of the latest updates from Indira Gandhi National Open University, including new courses, admission procedures, examination updates, and other relevant information.

New Courses Offered by IGNOU:

IGNOU regularly introduces new courses to cater to the emerging trends and demands in the job market. Some of the latest courses offered by the university include:

1. Post Graduate Diploma in Corporate Social Responsibility (PGDCSR): This program aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of corporate social responsibility practices and their impact on businesses and society.

2. Certificate in Mobile Application Development (CMAD): With the increasing use of mobile applications, this course equips students with the skills needed to develop applications for various platforms.

3. Diploma in Event Management (DEVMT): Event management has become a thriving industry, and this diploma program covers various aspects of planning, organizing, and executing events.

4. Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Gaming and Virtual Reality (BGVR): This unique program focuses on the growing field of gaming and virtual reality, preparing students for careers in the gaming industry.

Admission Procedures and Important Dates:

For candidates looking to enroll in IGNOU programs, it is essential to stay updated on the admission procedures and important dates. Some key points to consider include:

• Online Admission Portal: IGNOU has a user-friendly online admission portal where students can register for various courses, upload documents, and make fee payments.
• Admission Cycles: The university conducts two admission cycles each year – one in January and the other in July. It is advisable to check the official website for specific dates for each cycle.
• Eligibility Criteria: Before applying for a course, candidates must carefully review the eligibility criteria specified by IGNOU for that particular program.
• Documents Required: During the admission process, candidates need to submit scanned copies of necessary documents such as educational certificates, identity proof, and photographs.

Examination Updates and Guidelines:

Examinations are a crucial aspect of any academic program, and IGNOU provides detailed guidelines and updates regarding its examination procedures. Some important points to note include:

• Term-End Examinations (TEE): IGNOU conducts TEEs twice a year in June and December for various courses. The university releases the date sheet and hall ticket information on its website.
• Exam Centres: Students can choose their preferred exam centres while filling out the examination form. It is essential to select a centre that is convenient and accessible.
• Study Material: IGNOU provides study material for each course, which is essential for exam preparation. Students are advised to go through the study material thoroughly to perform well in the exams.
• Result Declaration: The university declares the results of TEEs on its official website. Students can check their results using their enrollment number and other required details.

Scholarships and Financial Assistance:

To make education more accessible, IGNOU offers scholarships and financial assistance to deserving students. Some of the scholarship schemes available include:

• IGNOU Research Fellowship: This fellowship is aimed at supporting research scholars pursuing M.Phil and Ph.D. programs at IGNOU.
• Post-Doctoral Fellowship: IGNOU provides financial assistance to post-doctoral researchers to promote research activities in various disciplines.
• Merit Scholarships: The university also offers merit-based scholarships to students who excel in their academic performance.

Important Guidelines for IGNOU Students:

• Assignment Submission: IGNOU students are required to submit assignments for each course as per the designated schedule. Assignment marks are crucial for calculating the final grades.
• Attendance: Even though IGNOU follows a distance education model, students are encouraged to attend the counseling sessions and workshops conducted by the university for better understanding and interaction.
• Learner Support Services: IGNOU provides learner support services through its regional centres, study centres, and online platforms. Students can avail of academic guidance and counseling services as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I pursue multiple programs simultaneously at IGNOU?

2. No, IGNOU does not allow students to pursue more than one program at a time. It is essential to complete one program before enrolling in another.

3. How can I pay my IGNOU course fees?

4. IGNOU accepts course fees through online payment modes such as credit/debit cards, net banking, and e-wallets. Offline payment options are also available.

5. Is IGNOU degree valid for government jobs?

6. Yes, degrees and diplomas awarded by IGNOU are recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and are considered valid for government jobs and higher studies.

7. Are there any age restrictions for admission to IGNOU programs?

8. No, IGNOU does not have any age restrictions for most of its programs. Candidates of any age can apply for courses based on the eligibility criteria.

9. How can I obtain the IGNOU study material?

10. IGNOU provides study material in both physical and digital formats. Registered students can download the study material from the eGyankosh platform or collect it from their study centres.

11. What is the duration of IGNOU programs?

12. The duration of IGNOU programs varies depending on the course. Certificate courses typically range from six months to one year, while degree programs can extend up to five or six years.

13. Can I change my study centre after enrollment?

14. In certain cases, IGNOU allows students to request a change of study centre due to valid reasons such as relocation. The request must be submitted to the regional centre for approval.

15. Is there any provision for revaluation of IGNOU exam answer scripts?

16. IGNOU provides a re-evaluation facility for students who are not satisfied with their exam results. Candidates can apply for revaluation within the specified period by paying a nominal fee.

17. Does IGNOU provide placements after course completion?

18. IGNOU has a placement cell that facilitates job opportunities for students through placement drives, career fairs, and tie-ups with companies. However, placements are not guaranteed.

19. How can international students enroll in IGNOU programs?

    • International students can apply for IGNOU programs through the international division of the university. They need to meet the eligibility criteria and fulfill visa requirements for studying in India.

In conclusion, Indira Gandhi National Open University continues to be a trailblazer in open and distance education, offering a wide array of programs to students across the globe. By staying informed about the latest updates, admission procedures, examination guidelines, and support services, aspiring learners can make the most of their educational journey with IGNOU. For further details and specific queries, it is advisable to visit the official website of IGNOU or contact the respective regional centre.