IGNOU January 2026 admissions: The Indira Gandhi National Open University has extended the registration deadline for the January 2026 admission cycle. Candidates can now apply for Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and online programmes till April 10, 2026 through the official admission portal.Eligible candidates seeking admission to undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma and certificate programmes can complete their applications online. The university has advised applicants to submit their forms before the revised deadline.
IGNOU January 2026 admission: Important dates
Take a note of the key dates below:
- ODL registration start date: December 16, 2025
- Online programme registration start date: December 24, 2025
- Earlier last date: March 30, 2026
- Extended last date: April 10, 2026
The extended deadline applies to most programmes except certificate and semester-based courses.
IGNOU January 2026 admission: Eligibility and instructions
The university has asked candidates to keep their Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) ID ready before applying.
This is required to complete the registration process.Students who complete admission successfully will also be eligible to apply for Government of India scholarships through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) after confirmation of admission.For online programmes, candidates must ensure they have:
- Access to a computer or laptop
- Stable internet connection
The university has clarified that students enrolled in online programmes will not receive printed study material.
Candidates who prefer printed material should apply under the ODL mode.
How to apply for IGNOU January 2026 admission
Candidates can follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the official
IGNOU admission portal - Click on “Register Online”
- Select “Fresh Admission”
- Click on “New Registration”
- Complete registration and note login details
- Log in and fill the admission form
- Upload required documents
- Submit the application form
Direct link here.Candidates should ensure that all details match their educational records before final submission.Applicants are advised to regularly check the official website for further updates regarding admissions.
