IGNOU Extends Deadline for Online Programme Applications

• IGNOU extends the January 2026 online programme application deadline to March 15.
• The extension does not include certificate or semester‑based programme admissions.
• Entrance test applications for BEd, nursing, PGDRPC close March 10.

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has announced a fresh extension of the application deadline for candidates seeking admission to its online programmes in the January 2026 academic cycle. Originally ending on February 28, 2026, the deadline has now been extended to 15 March 2026, giving prospective students additional time to complete and submit their applications. This extension issued by IGNOU’s administration applies only to online programmes and specifically does not cover certificate courses or semester‑based programmes.

IGNOU offers a wide array of online academic options across undergraduate and postgraduate levels. At the undergraduate level, students can apply for degrees such as Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA), Bachelor of Science (BSc) and Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), including honours and specialized subjects.

Postgraduate options include degrees like Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts (MA) in various disciplines, Master of Computer Applications (MCA), and Master of Commerce (MCom), among others. Beyond degree programmes, IGNOU also provides diploma and advanced certificate courses meant to support skill development and career progression.

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Officials have urged students to complete and submit their application forms well before the 15 March cut‑off to avoid potential last‑minute technical issues on the university’s admission portal. Applicants can visit the official IGNOU website at ignou.ac.in to access programme details, eligibility criteria and the online application form.

In addition to the extended online admissions window, IGNOU has also revised the deadline for submitting online application forms for entrance tests to certain programmes including BEd, BSc Nursing (Post Basic) and the Post Graduate Diploma in Rural and Plantation Management, now set to close on 10 March 2026 at 6 PM. These entrance exams are scheduled for 29 March 2026, offering further opportunities for candidates to join selected professional courses.