IGNOU MCA Admission 2026: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has started the admission window for MCA program from 16 December 2025. Master of Computer Applications (MCA) is a 2 year postgraduate (PG) degree programme offered in online & distance learning mode. This distance learning mode is ideal for students who cannot attend regular classes due to personal commitments, work schedules, or limited access to traditional colleges. To apply for the MCA course from IGNOU, students need to hold a BCA/ Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from a certified university with a minimum of 45% marks. Students have to pay around INR 13,300 per semester, plus an additional INR 300 for registration.
If students are unable to apply in the January session, they still have the option to register for the July session. The deadline for distance admission is 31 January 2026. Candidates are advised to visit the official website of IGNOU and fill out the application form before the final date.
IGNOU MCA Admission 2026: Latest Update
- Dec Update: IGNOU MCA Admission for the January 2026 session has rolled out. The final date announced by the IGNOU is 31 January 2026. Source
IGNOU MCA Admission Overview
- Program Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 4 years
- Eligibility Criteria: BCA/ Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks (45% for reserved categories)
- Curriculum Overview: Covers programming, databases, AI, cloud computing, and more
- Learning Flexibility: Self-paced study with online and printed study materials
- Application Fee: IGNOU MCA admission fee is Rs. 300
- Fees Per Semester: Approximately Rs. 10,800
- Career Opportunities: Software developer, data analyst, IT project manager
- Scheme of Study: Semester system with assignments and exams
- Project: Mandatory project work in the final semester.
- Official Website: www.ignou.ac.in
- Create your DEB ID: MCA admissions for the current session will be accepted only with a DEB ID. Before applying to IGNOU MCA, make sure to register on the DEB portal with your ABC ID.
IGNOU MCA Admission 2026-27
IGNOU Master of Computer Applications is a great opportunity for students interested in computer applications and Information Technology (IT). IGNOU MCA Admission 2026 last date is 15th January 2026. Students interested in applying should complete their registration by this date. For updates and important information, visit the IGNOU official website.
The program fees are reasonable. The total cost is Rs 64,800, payable for four semesters at Rs 10,800 per semester. A one-time registration fee of Rs 300 is also required and is non-refundable. Students are advised to check the IGNOU website for any updates on the fee structure.
IGNOU MCA Admission Highlight Points 2026
MCA is designed for students who want to make a career in computer applications and software development. And to provide the students with in-depth knowledge and expertise in Computer Science.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Name | Master of Computer Applications (MCA) |
| Course Code | MCA_NEW |
| Department | School of Computer and Information Sciences |
| Duration | Min: 3 years, Max: 4 years |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Course Fees | Rs. 64,800 (total program fee) |
| Age Requirements | No age limit |
| Eligibility Criteria | Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics |
| Admission Sessions | January and July |
| Program Structure | Semester-based |
IGNOU MCA Admission Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for IGNOU’s MCA (Master of Computer Applications) program, candidates must hold a valid Bachelor’s degree in Computer Application, Computer Science, B.E/B.Tech or a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline with studied mathematics as core subject at 10+2 or graduation level. Applicants from the general category need to secure at least 50% aggregate marks and for SC/ST/OBC candidates are required to obtain at least 45% marks.
The selection for IGNOU’s MCA program is typically based on the merit score of the qualifying examination. There is no separate entrance exam required for the MCA program. Applicants from any age group can apply. The medium of instruction is English, so it is recommended that you must be familiar with the English language.
IGNOU MCA Multiple Exit and Multiple Entry Points
The Multiple Entry and Multiple Exit (MEME) system for the MCA program at IGNOU offers students more flexibility and opportunities to complete their education. This system, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, allows students to start or exit the program at different stages based on their needs and progress.
IGNOU MCA Entrance Exam
- IGNOU does not conduct any entrance exam for the MCA admission
- IGNOU MCA Admission is based on qualifying exam marks and eligibility criteria
- Online application and document verification process
IGNOU MCA Admission Selection Criteria
- Merit-based selection considering graduation marks
- Preference to candidates with a relevant IT/CS background
- The reservation policy is applied as per government norms
IGNOU MCA Fee Structure
IGNOU MCA program fee is approximately ₹ 50,800. Students can pay the course fee semester-wise; the fee for one semester will be ₹12,500. You can also pay it annually. I hope this fee structure will be suitable for you.
- Full MCA program fee: Rs 50,800 for the total course.
- Semester fee: Rs 12,500 per semester
- Yearly fee: Rs 25,000 per year
- Registration fee: Rs 300 at the time of submission of the admission form
- Registration Fee is not refundable. But the course fee is refunded
- Practical Examination: No additional fee
- Fee Support for SC/ST Students: Available as per government norms
- Payment Schedule: Semester-wise payment option
IGNOU MCA Admission Application Process
Step 1: The candidate will open the IGNOU official website in any search engine.
Step 2: Press the ‘Online Admission‘ button and create a new registration
Step 3: Fill in personal and educational details carefully, like user ID, password, course name, etc.
Step 3: Upload required documents (mark sheets, ID proof, photo)
Step 4: You will pay the application fee online with your card and application.
Step 5: Click on Submit the completed application form
Step 6: Note down the application number for future reference
Step 7: Wait for the admission confirmation from IGNOU.
Documents Required
- 10th and 12th mark sheets
- Graduation degree and mark sheets
- Valid ID proof (Aadhaar card preferred)
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Mathematics studies proof at the 10+2 or graduation level
IGNOU MCA Evaluation System
- Continuous Assessment: Assignments (30% weightage)
- Term-End Exams: Written exams (70% weightage)
- Practical Components: Lab work and project evaluation
- Minimum Pass Marks: 40% in assignments and term-end exams separately
- Grade System: Follows a 10-point grading scale
IGNOU MCA Admission Syllabus
IGNOU MCA New Syllabus students are provided with the content of the course theory and practical sessions in MCA_New Syllabus. Students must attend these sessions as the program also includes attendance marks. The course program structure comprises 108 credits that cover a variety of subjects. MCA basic syllabus includes subjects like Network and Database Management, Electronics, Cloud Computing, Mobile Technologies, Java Programming, Mathematics, Statistics, etc. Candidates should note that the MCA subjects may change depending on the college.
| Semester | Courses |
|---|---|
| I | Problem Solving and Programming, Computer Organization, Discrete Mathematics |
| II | Data Structures, Operating Systems, Database Management Systems |
| III | Design and Analysis of Algorithms, Object-Oriented Analysis and Design, Software Engineering |
| IV | Advanced Internet Technologies, Computer Networks, Project Work |
IGONU MCA Study Material
While you are pursuing IGNOU MCA, students can use the self-learning material provided by IGNOU to practice and learn. These study materials have been created by teachers and subject experts of IGNOU. They provide a subject overview and in-depth analysis of the major topics of the IGNOU MCA syllabus. Students can download a PDF file for the MCA course from IGNOU by using the following link.
How to download the MCA study material
- Visit the e-Gyankosh website @egyankosh.ac.in.
- Search MCA Subjects in the search box.
- The list of all available course subjects will appear. Search for the required MCA Subjects.
- Click on the chosen subject code. Open PDF online.
- Download the MCA PDF Learning Material. Save it to your device.
IGNOU MCA Assignment
IGNOU will start the submission of assignments for the June TEE. Students pursuing the MCA course who wish to appear in the June TEE must submit the assignments by the last date.
- Assignments are a crucial part of the evaluation process
- Students must submit assignments for each course
- Helps in continuous learning and self-assessment
- Submission deadlines are strict and must be adhered to
- Assignments are typically practical, applying theoretical concepts.
TCS generally does not prefer distance or correspondence courses. As per its policy, candidates must complete their MCA through a full-time program. This preference is based on the practical experience provided in full-time MCA programs.
IGNOU MCA TEE Form Submission 2026
IGNOU has started accepting exam forms for the MCA program to appear for the June term-end examination. Students can submit their exam forms by visiting the official IGNOU website, exam.ignou.ac.in. They must submit their exam forms to appear for the December 2026 TEE.
How to Apply for IGNOU MCA Fee Refund
Step 1: Open the IGNOU MCA admission registration email.
Step 2: Prepare an email. Write the reason for the IGNOU MCA admission cancellation.
Step 3: M.C.A. Write the enrollment number. Write the name of the course (Master of Computer Application) and course code (MCA).
Step 4: Send it to canceladms @ignou.ac.in.
Step 5: IGNOU will start the fee refund process.
THE IGNOU MCA fee refund process must be completed 60 days after the last date of the MCA admission form. IGNOU does not make any refunds after 60 days.
What Career Goals Can the IGNOU MCA Program Help Achieve?
- Software Developer: Design and create software applications using various programming languages and tools.
- Data Analyst: Analyze complex datasets to derive insights and support decision-making processes.
- System Architect: Design and oversee the implementation of complex IT systems and infrastructure.
- IT Project Manager: Lead and manage technology projects, coordinating teams and resources.
- Cloud Computing Specialist: Develop and maintain cloud-based applications and services.
IGNOU MCA Placement Information
The MCA course of Indira Gandhi National Open University offers placement opportunities through its Campus Placement Cell (CPC), which organises a placement drive inviting top recruiters to hire students for various roles in IT and software development.
- Software Engineer: Average salary Rs. 5-8 lakhs per annum
- Data Scientist: Average salary Rs. 6-12 lakhs per annum
- Network Administrator: Average salary Rs. 4-7 lakhs per annum
- Database Administrator: Average salary Rs. 5-9 lakhs per annum
- IT Consultant: Average salary Rs. 7-15 lakhs per annum
Course Structure: The IGNOU MCA course syllabus is divided into 4 semesters. The first semester consists of 7 subjects, and the remaining 5 semesters consist of 6 subjects.
Conclusion
The IGNOU MCA program offers a flexible and affordable path to advanced computer science education. It’s designed for both fresh graduates and working professionals looking to enhance their IT skills. With its industry-relevant curriculum, practical focus, and recognized degree, the program prepares students for various high-demand careers in the tech industry. The multiple exit options and distance learning format make it an attractive choice for learners with diverse needs and circumstances.
FAQs
Q1: Is the IGNOU MCA degree recognized by employers?
Ans: Yes, IGNOU degrees are recognized by UGC and widely accepted by employers across India.
Q2: What is the fee for MCA admission in IGNOU?
Ans: This fee is as per the university official website. The total fee for this course is Rs 64,800 plus a registration fee of Rs 300/.
Q3: Are there any face-to-face classes in IGNOU MCA?
Ans: While most learning is through self-study, there are optional counseling sessions at study centers.
Q: What is the last date for MCA admission 2026?
Ans: IGNOU Admission 2026 is open for admission to MCA courses. The last date for admission is 31 January 2026*.
Q: Is MCA from IGNOU a Valid course?
Ans: The MCA online course at IGNOU is approved by UGC-DEB, hence it is valid for employment in various work sectors.
Q: Can IGNOU assignments be submitted late?
Ans: Yes, IGNOU assignments can usually be submitted late, but it is not recommended and may have consequences.
Q: What is the examination pattern of IGNOU?
Ans: The Explanation pattern followed at IGNOU online for different types of courses is semester-based. Exams are conducted offline at IGNOU Regional Center.
