IGNOU Admission Jan 2026
Aspiring students looking to pursue higher education through distance or online learning have great news! The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has officially released the admission notification for the January 2026 session.
Whether you are looking for a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, or a specialized Diploma, IGNOU offers a flexible and affordable pathway to achieve your academic goals. Below is a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know about the current admission cycle.
1.IGNOU Admission Jan 2026: Key Highlights & Important Dates
The most crucial piece of information for any applicant is the deadline. Missing the date means waiting another six months for the next cycle.
| Feature | Details |
| Admission Cycle | January 2026 Session |
| Last Date to Apply | January 31, 2026 |
| Learning Modes | ODL (Open & Distance Learning) and Online |
| Official Admission Portal | ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in |
| Online Courses Portal | ignouiop.samarth.edu.in |
2.IGNOU Admission Jan 2026: Mandatory Requirements (The ABC/APAAR ID)
One of the most significant updates in the 2026 admission process is the mandatory requirement of a digital academic ID.
Important Note: All candidates are advised to create their APAAR ID (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) before starting the application. This is also referred to as the ABC ID (Academic Bank of Credits). Without this ID, your application submission will be incomplete.
Why do you need an APAAR ID?
It serves as a digital storehouse for all your academic credits.
It is mandatory for verifying student identity and facilitating credit transfers.
3. IGNOU Admission Jan 2026: Application Process & Documentation
The registration process is entirely online. To ensure a smooth experience, keep the following documents scanned and ready.
Required Documents List:
| Document Type | Specification |
| Photograph | Scanned copy (Passport size) |
| Signature | Scanned copy on white paper |
| Academic Records | Scanned copies of 10th, 12th, or Graduation certificates |
| Identity ID | ABC ID / APAAR ID (Mandatory) |
| Category Certificate | If applying under SC/ST/OBC/EWS quotas |
4.IGNOU Admission Jan 2026: Course Availability & Regional Focus
While IGNOU is a national university, local centers like the Regional Center play a massive role in student support.
| Category | Statistics/Data |
| Total Online Courses | 143+ Courses available |
| Courses at Patna Center | Over 300 different programs |
| Study Centers (Patna Region) | 54 active Study Centers |
| Program Variety | Certificate, Diploma, UG, PG, and PhD |
5.IGNOU Admission Jan 2026: How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Student Guide
Follow these steps to ensure your application is submitted correctly without errors:
Visit the Official Portal: Go to the IGNOU Samarth portal (links provided in the table above).
New Registration: Click on the “New Registration” button. Provide your email and mobile number to create a login.
Fill Personal Details: Enter your name, father’s name, and contact information exactly as they appear on your 10th-grade certificate.
Enter Academic ID: Input your APAAR/ABC ID.
Select Program: Choose between ODL (Distance) or Online mode and select your desired course.
Upload Documents: Upload the scanned photo, signature, and educational certificates.
Fee Payment: Pay the application and course fee using Debit Card, Credit Card, or Net Banking.
Print Confirmation: Download and print the final application form for future reference.
6.IGNOU Admission Jan 2026: Comparison: ODL vs. Online Mode
Many students get confused between “Open & Distance Learning” and “Online” programs. Here is a quick comparison:
| Feature | ODL (Open & Distance Learning) | Online Mode |
| Study Material | Printed books (by post) or Digital | Fully Digital (App/Web) |
| Examination | Offline at designated exam centers | Often Online (Proctored) or Center-based |
| Counseling | Weekend classes at Study Centers | Virtual live sessions |
| Suitability | Students preferring physical books/interaction | Working professionals/Remote learners |
7.IGNOU Admission Jan 2026: Crucial Instructions for Candidates
Double-Check Details: Ensure your email and mobile number are active, as all future communications regarding exams and assignments will be sent there.
Fee Refund: Carefully read the refund policy on the IGNOU website before making a payment.
Regional Center Choice: Select a Study Center that is geographically closest to you for easy access to counseling and assignment submission.
Deadline Awareness: While IGNOU often extends deadlines, it is highly recommended to complete the process by January 31, 2026, to avoid last-minute server crashes.
IGNOU Admission Jan 2026: Summary for Students (Hindi & English)
Last Date: Apply by 31st Jan 2026. (अंतिम तिथि: 31 जनवरी 2026 तक आवेदन करें।)
Digital ID: APAAR ID is mandatory for all. (डीईबी/आपाार आईडी बनाना अनिवार्य है।)
Where to Apply: Use the Samarth Portal for registration. (पंजीकरण के लिए समर्थ पोर्टल का उपयोग करें।)
Courses: Huge variety of 300+ courses available at centers like Patna. (पटना सेंटर जैसे केंद्रों पर 300 से अधिक कोर्स उपलब्ध हैं।)