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Is IGNOU Online Programmes Valid in 2026?
With over 40 online programmes across bachelor’s, master’s, diploma, and certificate degrees, the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) gives learners the flexibility to learn at their own pace and convenience. While IGNOU online programmes are apt for students and working professionals alike, the pressing question is about credibility and return on investment.
IGNOU Online Programmes: Is It Valid?
To offer programmes in online and open distance learning (ODL) mode, institutions required specific approvals. IGNOU is a Central University established by an Act of Parliament in 1985. Thus, it is exempted from UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programme and Online Programme) Regulations, 2020 for its ODL and online programmes.
The UGC has explicitly stated that the programmes offered by IGNOU are at par with programmes approved by the UGC-Distance Education Bureau (DEB) except for those programmes which fall under prohibited discipline as per UGC (Open and Distance Learning Programme and Online Programme) Regulations, 2020 and Commission decisions from time to time.
This means that degrees obtained from IGNOU are equivalent to degrees obtained from other UGC-approved institutions. So, pursuing IGNOU online programmes is valid and worth it in 2026.
Also Read: IGNOU - Know Everything About Placements, Jobs and Career Growth for Already Employed Learners
Regulatory and Accreditation Status of IGNOU
IGNOU offers more than 300 programmes, including online programmes, with over 3 million enrollments since its inception.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
University Type | Central University |
Establishment | Act of Parliament (1985) |
NIRF Ranking (2025) | 1 (Open University) |
Programmes Recognised by | Association of Indian Universities (AIU) |
Also Read: How to Succeed at IGNOU: Study Plan, Time Commitment, Student Support
Programmes offered by IGNOU are valid and worth pursuing in 2026. If you are a working professional seeking career progression, a government job aspirant looking for a qualifying degree, or a student facing financial or geographical constraints, IGNOU online programmes in 2026 give you a combination of legitimacy, flexibility, and affordability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does IGNOU offer online degrees?
A:
Yes, IGNOU offers a variety of online degree programmes at the UG, PG, Diploma, and Certificate levels.
Q: Are IGNOU online degrees recognised for government jobs in India?
A:
Yes. Degrees obtained from IGNOU in online and ODL modes are treated as equivalent to conventional degrees for government employment.
Q: Is IGNOU online degree recognised by UGC?
A:
As per the UGC notification, IGNOU is exempted from UGC’s ODL and Online Programme Regulations, 2020 for its ODL and online programmes. IGNOU programmes are at par with programmes approved by the UGC-DEB except for those programmes which fall under prohibited discipline as per UGC Regulations, 2020.
Q: Can I pursue a PhD after an IGNOU online programme?
A:
Yes. An IGNOU Master's degree programme makes you eligible to apply for PhD programmes in India and abroad, provided you meet other entrance criteria (like NET/GATE).
Q: What is the fee of IGNOU online programmes?
A:
The fee of IGNOU online programmes start from Rs 6,000 and go up to Rs 58,000 for the full programme.
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