1. General Category (Accessible to all students)
Eligibility: Students must possess the necessary educational qualifications pertinent to the program (for instance, 10+2 for undergraduate, bachelor’s degree for postgraduate programs).
Application Process: Adhere to the standard application method as described above
Register on the official portal.
Complete the required information and upload appropriate documents.
Submit the designated application fee.
Documents Required
Photocopy of previous qualifications (mark sheets, certificates).
Proof of identity.
Passport-sized photograph.
Signature.
Fee: The fee structure typically remains uniform for all students in this category.
2. SC/ST Category
Eligibility: Students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) communities.
Application Process
Similar to the general category, but SC/ST candidates may qualify for fee exemptions or reductions.
Fee
Certain programs might feature a lower fee structure for SC/ST candidates.
Verify specific fee details on the IGNOU website or prospectus, since fee reductions might apply to select programs.
Documents Required
SC/ST Certificate issued by a qualified authority.
Additional documents necessary for the program (mark sheets, photo, etc.).
3. OBC Category (Non-Creamy Layer)
Eligibility: Students from Other Backward Classes (OBC) (Non-Creamy Layer).
Application Process
The process closely mirrors the general category. Nevertheless, OBC candidates might be entitled to reservation advantages (for example, in entrance exams or limited seats).
Fee
OBC students usually incur the same fee as General category students unless special fee discounts are provided.
Documents Required
OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) Certificate from a competent authority.
Other required documents like academic qualifications, proof of identity, etc.
4. PWD (Persons with Disabilities) Category
Eligibility: Students with physical disabilities having a minimum of 40% disability.
Application Process
The procedure is similar to that of the general category.
PWD candidates receive reservation advantages for programs with limited seats.
Fee
Fee waivers may be accessible for PWD candidates in specific cases, though it’s advisable to verify program-related fee reductions.
Documents Required
Disability Certificate provided by a recognized medical entity.
Additional documents (academic qualifications, ID proof, etc.).
5. EWS (Economically Weaker Sections)
Eligibility: Students hailing from Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), which encompasses families with an annual income below a certain threshold.
Application Process
Follow the identical admission process as the general category.
The EWS certificate must be submitted for proof in order to avail benefits.
Fee
In certain instances, EWS students qualify for fee reductions or reserved seats in specific programs.
Documents Required
EWS Certificate issued by the appropriate authority.
Income proof and other essential documentation.
6. International Students
Eligibility: Foreign nationals desiring to pursue a program in India via IGNOU.
Application Process
International students must submit their applications through IGNOU’s International Division.
This process entails providing documents such as a valid passport, visa, and proof of residence.
Fee
The fee for international students may differ and is often greater than for Indian students.
Check the specific fee breakdown for international students on the IGNOU website.
Documents Required
Passport (valid for a minimum of 6 months).
Visa (Student Visa or Tourist Visa, as applicable).
Proof of residency in India.
Academic certificates and transcripts.
7. NRI (Non-Resident Indian) Category
Eligibility: NRIs may apply for specific programs at IGNOU.
Application Process
Like foreign students, NRIs apply through the International Division of IGNOU.
The process involves supplying necessary documents, including proof of NRI status.
Fee
NRIs usually face different fee structures, which may be higher compared to Indian residents.
Documents Required
Proof of NRI status (e.g., passport, residency verification).
Valid visa.
Other documentation in accordance with the specific program’s requirements.
8. Sponsored Category
Eligibility: Employees of organizations or institutions who are financially supported by their employer to undertake a course at IGNOU.
Application Process
Candidates must apply under the sponsored category, and the employer needs to provide a sponsorship letter confirming financial backing and the employee’s eligibility.
Fee
Fees for sponsored candidates may differ and could exceed those of general candidates.
Documents Required
Sponsorship letter from the employer.
Other necessary documents (academic records, proof of identity, etc.).
Important Notes for All Categories
Entrance Exams: Some programs may necessitate entrance tests (such as B.Ed., MBA, Ph.D.). Ensure to verify the specific requirements for your desired program.
Reservation: IGNOU adheres to the reservation guidelines established by the Government of India’s policies for SC, ST, OBC, and PWD categories. Certain programs may have reserved seats in compliance with the norms.
Fee Payment: Fees can be paid online using debit/credit cards, net banking, or UPI.