IGNOU PGDLAN Admission 2026: Fees, Eligibility & Syllabus

IGNOU PGDLAN Admission 2026 will begin soon for students looking to gain expertise in Library Automation and Networking. This Post Graduate Diploma in Library Automation and Networking is designed for librarians, information managers, and IT professionals working in libraries. To apply, you must have a Bachelor’s in Library and Information Science (BLIS). The total course fee is ₹7,000, and the last date for admission is 31 January 2026*.

The syllabus includes areas such as library management software, digital library creation, metadata handling, and library network design. Learners get hands-on training through practical assignments and software demonstrations. The course prepares professionals to work in modern digital libraries, educational institutions, research centres, and public archives. IGNOU provides printed and digital study materials for flexible learning. This program helps upgrade the skills of traditional librarians to meet the demands of the digital era.

IGNOU PGDLAN Admission Latest Update

• 24 Nov 2025: IGNOU has released the hall ticket for the Postgraduate Diploma in Library Automation and Networking on the Samarth portal. Source
• 28 Nov 2025: The December 2025 Term-end examination is scheduled to be held on 1 December 2025. Click on the link for the detailed datesheet. Source

IGNOU PGDLAN Admission 2026 Quick Overview

• Program Overview: The PGDLAN course develops professional competencies for managing automated and networked library environments.
• Duration: The course duration is a minimum of 1 year, a maximum of 4 years, thereby providing flexible learning for working professionals.
• Eligibility: Students have a Bachelor’s degree in Library and Information Science from a recognised university. No specific percentage criteria were mentioned.
• Application Process: Online application through IGNOU’s official website. Simple steps include registration, form filling, and fee payment.
• Curriculum: Covers computer basics, library automation, information systems, networking, and internet technologies.
• Learning Flexibility: Distance learning mode with practical components for hands-on experience.
• Fees: Approximately ₹12,000 for the entire program, payable in one or two instalments.
• Career Opportunities: Graduates can work as library automation specialists, information system managers, or digital librarians.
• Study Scheme: Blend of theory and practical courses, totalling 32 credits.
• Project: Includes a 4-credit project for real-world application of learned concepts.

IGNOU PGDLAN Admission 2026 Highlights 

Eligibility Criteria for IGNOU PGDLAN Admission

• Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Library and Information Science from a recognised university.
• Boards Accepted: Degrees from UGC-recognised universities, including state boards and CBSE.
• Minimum Marks: No specific percentage is mentioned; candidates from all academic backgrounds can apply.
• Age Limit: No upper age limit is specified, making it suitable for working professionals.
• Additional Requirements: Basic computer knowledge is beneficial but not mandatory.

Entrance Exam for IGNOU PGDLAN Admission

• No entrance examination is required for admission to the PGDLAN program.
• Admission is based on the eligibility criteria of having a Bachelor’s degree in Library and Information Science.
• Interested candidates can directly apply through the IGNOU admission portal.

Selection Criteria for IGNOU PGDLAN Admission

• Merit-Based Selection: Admission is granted based on fulfilling the eligibility criteria.
• First-Come-First-Served: As long as seats are available, eligible candidates are admitted in the order of application receipt.
• No Entrance Test: Unlike some other IGNOU programs, PGDLAN doesn’t require clearing an entrance examination.

Fee Structure of IGNOU PGDLAN Admission

• Total Program Fee: Approximately INR 12,000 for the entire duration.
• Fee Components: Includes registration fee, course material cost, and examination fees.
• Project Evaluation Fee: Included in the total program fee.
• Payment Options: Full payment at the time of admission or in two installments.
• SC/ST Fee Support: IGNOU offers fee exemption for SC/ST students as per government norms.
• Additional Expenses: Students should budget for internet connectivity for online study materials and submissions.

IGNOU PGDLAN Admission Application Process

Step 1: Visit the Official Website: Go to www.ignou.ac.in and click on the ‘Admission’ section.

Step 2 New Registration: Create an account if you’re a new applicant.

Step 3: Login: Use your credentials to log in to the admission portal.

Step 4: Choose Program: Select ‘PGDLAN’ from the list of available programs.

Step 5: Fill Application Form: Enter personal, educational, and communication details accurately.

Step 6: Upload Documents: Attach scanned copies of the required documents.

Step 7 Pay Fees: Complete the payment process using available online methods.

Step 8: Submit Application: Review all details and submit the form.

Step 9 Confirmation: Note down the application number for future reference.

Documents Required for IGNOU PGDLAN Admission

• Scanned passport-size photograph
• Scanned signature to blue ink
• 10th class mark sheet (for date of birth proof)
• Bachelor’s degree in Library and Information Science, mark sheet, and certificate
• Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC), if applicable
• ID proof (Aadhaar Card/PAN Card/Passport)

Evaluation System

• Continuous Assessment: 30% weightage through assignments for each course.
• Term-End Examination: 70% weightage, conducted at the end of each semester.
• Practical Evaluation: Hands-on assessment for practical courses.
• Project Work: Evaluation based on the submitted project report and viva voce.
• Grading System: IGNOU follows a letter grading system for final results.
• Minimum Passing Criteria: Students must score at least 35% in both assignments and term-end exams.

IGNOU PGDLAN Admission Course Syllabus

Indira Gandhi National Open University provides a syllabus for PGDLAN. Here are some important course syllabus.

Each theory course is accompanied by a practical component (MLIL-1 to MLIL-7).

IGNOU PGDLAN Study Material

IGNOU provides study material for free; apart from this, it also provides services for online classes and online exams. Students who have been admitted can download the study material from the official website.

Assignment Submission

• Submission Process: Submit assignments through your designated study centre or online portal before the announced deadline. Late submission may affect your eligibility for term-end examinations
• Deadline: Typically due before the term-end examination; exact dates are announced on the IGNOU website.
• Importance: Assignments contribute 30% to the overall course grade and are mandatory for exam eligibility.
• Feedback: Provides valuable insights into student progress and areas needing improvement.
• Why assignments are important: IGNOU PGDLAN assignments, after admission, serve as practice exams, contributing 30% to your final grade. These assignments enhance your subject understanding and exam preparation, and also provide teacher feedback to improve understanding.

Examination Pattern

• Term-End Examination (TEE): Conducted at the end of each semester, TEE carries 70% weightage. It assesses the theoretical understanding of the subjects covered. The exams are typically held in June and December. TEE exams will start on 1 December 2026.
• Assignments: These are continuous assessment tools, carrying 30% weightage. Students must submit assignments for each course, which helps in regular study and self-assessment.

This program requires students to pass both components to complete the course. IGNOU conducts examinations at various centres across India, making it convenient for students to take exams near them.

IGNOU PGDLAN: Career Scope

• Library Automation Specialist: Implement and manage automated library systems, streamlining cataloging, circulation, and resource management processes.
• Digital Librarian: Curate and manage digital collections, ensuring easy access and preservation of digital resources using specialized tools and technologies.
• Information Systems Manager: Oversee library information systems, focusing on database management, information retrieval, and system optimization.
• Network Administrator for Libraries: Manage library networks, ensuring seamless connectivity and secure access to digital resources across multiple locations.
• Content Development Specialist: Create and manage digital content for libraries, including e-books, online databases, and multimedia resources.

IGNOU Study Centre for PGDLAN

Placement

• Library Automation Consultant: ₹4,00,000 – ₹6,00,000 per annum
• Digital Resources Manager: ₹3,50,000 – ₹5,50,000 per annum
• Information Systems Specialist: ₹4,50,000 – ₹7,00,000 per annum
• E-Library Coordinator: ₹3,00,000 – ₹5,00,000 per annum
• Library Technology Trainer: ₹3,50,000 – ₹5,00,000 per annum

FAQs

Q: Is IGNOU PGDLAN recognized by potential employers?

Ans: Yes, IGNOU is a recognized central university, and its degrees, including PGDLAN, are widely accepted by employers in both public and private sectors.

Q: Can I pursue PGDLAN while working full-time?

Ans: Absolutely. The program is designed for distance learning, allowing students to balance their studies with work commitments.

Q: Are there any contact classes for PGDLAN students?

Ans: IGNOU may arrange counseling sessions at study centers, but attendance is usually optional. Most course content is delivered through self-study materials.

Q: How can I access study materials for the PGDLAN program?

Ans: IGNOU provides printed study materials and also offers e-content through its e-Gyankosh portal, accessible to enrolled students.

Q: Is there a separate fee for the project work in PGDLAN?

Ans: No, the project evaluation fee is included in the overall program fee. There’s no additional charge for project submission and evaluation.

Q: What is the benefit of pursuing the Post Graduate Diploma in Library Automation and Networking course?

Ans: PGDLAN offers several benefits, such as specialized knowledge and skills in library automation and networking, better employability and career advancement opportunities in the emerging field of information science.

Q: What is the PGDLAN course?

Ans: Postgraduate Diploma in Library Automation and Networking (PGDLAN) aims to develop the professional competencies of library and information professionals in an automated and networked environment. You can complete this course in at least 1 year