IGNOU MA Admission 2026: Latest Updates
- Dec Update: IGNOU admission process has started for the Master of Arts Program through distance learning mode for the January 2026 session, the last date for submitting the online application form is 31st January 2026. Source
IGNOU MA Distance Education Admission 2026 Highlights
| Course Name | MA or Master of Arts |
| Duration | 2 to 4 years |
| Eligibility | Bachelor's Degree in any discipline |
| Fee Range | INR 6,000 to 9,000 annually |
| Application Fee | INR 300 |
| Mode of Study | Distance/Correspondance |
| Medium of Instruction | English & Hindi |
| Admissions Conducted by the university | For January & July sessions |
| Offered by | IGNOU Distance Education |
| MA Specializations |
English, Hindi, Political Science, History, Sociology, Psychology, Economics, Public Administration, Anthropology, Gandhi and Peace Studies, Rural Development, Education, Adult Education, Philosophy, Development Studies, and more.
|
IGNOU MA Distance Education Admission 2026-27
Admission is open for the January 2026 session into a master of Arts course at IGNOU. The last date for admission into MA courses is 31st January 2026. In a Master of Arts course, students can read many subjects with deep knowledge such as Sociology, Economics, Psychology, English, Hindi and History. Those students who have completed their bachelor's degree in any discipline with at least marks around 45% to 50%. Also this degree should be from a recognized university. The online fee for the IGNOU MA course is INR 300.What is IGNOU MA Distance Education?
IGNOU MA Distance Education is a postgraduate degree. This PG program is offered by the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) through distance learning mode. This flexible program allows you to get a Master of Arts degree while balancing work, family, or other commitments. IGNOU MA admission is open to graduates from various disciplines, providing an opportunity for higher education to a wide range of students. This program covers diverse specializations in humanities and social sciences, including History, Political Science, Sociology, Economics, and English Literature. You can choose your area of interest and study at your own pace within the given time frame. The curriculum is made to provide in-depth knowledge and critical thinking skills in the chosen field.Why Choose IGNOU MA Distance Education?
- Flexibility: IGNOU MA Distance Education offers the flexibility to study from anywhere, allowing balance of education with work.
- Recognized Degree: The MA degree from IGNOU is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC), ensuring its validity for further education and employment opportunities.
- Affordable Education: Compared to traditional universities, IGNOU offers affordable quality education.
- Diverse Specializations: Students can choose from a wide range of specializations in humanities and social sciences, catering to various interests and career goals.
- Comprehensive Study Materials: IGNOU provides well-structured self-study materials and online resources, enabling effective learning without regular classroom attendance.
Benefits of IGNOU MA Admission
- Career Advancement: An MA degree from IGNOU can open up new career opportunities and help in professional growth across various sectors.
- Skill Enhancement: The program focuses on developing critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, which are valuable in both academic and professional settings.
- Networking Opportunities: Despite being a distance learning program, IGNOU provides platforms for interaction with peers and experts through contact sessions and online forums.
- Self-Paced Learning: Students can complete the program at their own pace within the maximum time limit, allowing for better management of personal and professional commitments.
- Access to IGNOU Resources: Enrolled students get access to IGNOU's vast library resources and digital learning platforms, enhancing their learning experience.
IGNOU MA Distance Education Admission Process 2026
- Eligibility Check: Bachelor's degree in any discipline.
- Online Application: Fill out the IGNOU online application form. The application window is usually open twice a year for January and July sessions.
- Document Submission: Upload required documents, including graduation certificates and identity proof.
- Fee Payment: Pay the application and program fee online.
- Confirmation: Receive confirmation of admission and enrollment number upon successful application and fee payment.
- Study Material: Access study materials online or receive them by post, depending on your preference indicated during application.
IGNOU MA Distance Education Eligibility Criteria
- Educational Qualification: Applicants must have completed a bachelor's degree (10+2+3 years of education) from a recognized university.
- No Age Limit: No upper age limit for IGNOU MA admissions.
- Relaxation: Relaxation in the minimum percentage requirement as per IGNOU norms for reserved categories.
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the language of instruction (English or Hindi) is essential, depending on the chosen program.
- No Entrance Exam: Generally, IGNOU does not conduct entrance exams for MA admissions. Selection is based on fulfilling eligibility criteria and availability of seats.
IGNOU MA Distance Education Fee Structure
- Program Fee: The total program fee for IGNOU MA varies depending on the specialization, ranging from approximately INR 12,000 to INR 18,000 for the entire program.
- Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee of INR 200 is charged at the time of application.
- Study Material Fee: Included in the program fee for most courses.
- Exam Fee: Separate exam fees may be applicable for each term-end examination.
- Additional Costs: Expenses for books, project work, and practical sessions (if applicable) are extra.
IGNOU MA Distance Education Specialisations
| Course Name |
Fees Per Annum
|
| Master of Arts (English) | Rs. 7,700/- |
| Master of Arts (Hindi) | Rs. 7,700/- |
| Master of Arts (Political Science) | Rs. 7,700/- |
| Master of Arts (History) | Rs. 7,700/- |
| Master of Arts (Sociology) | Rs. 7,300/- |
| Master of Arts (Psychology) | Rs. 10,000/- |
| Master of Arts (Economics) | Rs. 9,200/- |
| Master of Arts (Public Administration) | Rs. 7,700/- |
| Master of Library and Information Sciences | Rs. 11,500/- |
| Master of Arts (Anthropology) | Rs. 9,300/- |
| Master of Arts (Gandhi and Peace Studies) | Rs. 6,200/- |
| Master of Arts (Education) | Rs. 9,700/- |
| Master of Arts (Distance Education) | Rs. 6,500/- |
| Master of Arts (Adult Education) | Rs. 8,000/- |
| Master of Tourism and Travel Management | Rs. 7,500/- |
| Master of Tourism and Travel Management |
Rs. 10,500/- (1st year), Rs. 7,500/- (2nd year)
|
| Master of Arts (Philosophy) | Rs. 7,500/- |
| Master of Arts (Development Studies) | Rs. 6,500/- |
| Master of Arts (Corporate Social Responsibility) | Rs. 7,700/- |
| Master of Arts (Urban Studies) | Rs. 7,400/- |
| Master of Arts (Population and Family Health Studies) | Rs. 6,000/- |
| Master of Arts (Women and Gender Studies) | Rs. 7,400/- |
| Master of Arts (Gender and Development Studies) | Rs. 6,200/- |
| Master of Arts (Translation Studies) | Rs. 6,200/- |
IGNOU MA Distance Education Admission 2026: How to Apply?
- Visit IGNOU Website: Go to the official IGNOU admission website.
- Register: Create an account on the IGNOU admission portal.
- Fill Application: Complete the online application form. Fill in accurate personal and academic details.
- Choose Program: Select MA and your preferred specialization.
- Upload Documents: Scan and upload all required documents.
- Pay Fee: Make the online payment for application and program fees.
- Submit: Review and submit the application.
Documents Required for IGNOU MA Distance Education
- Graduation Degree Certificate and Mark sheets
- 10th and 12th Mark sheets
- Valid ID Proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or Passport)
- Recent Passport-size Photograph
- Signature
- Category Certificate (if applicable for reservation)
- Experience Certificate (if required for specific programs)
IGNOU MA Distance Education Syllabus
| Year | Courses |
|---|---|
| First Year | • Compulsory Courses in Chosen Specialization (2-3 courses) |
| • Research Methodology | |
| • Elective Courses (1-2 courses) | |
| Second Year | • Advanced Courses in Specialization (2-3 courses) |
| • Dissertation or Project Work | |
| • Elective Courses (1-2 courses) |
