IGNOU MSc Admission 2026| Last Date, Fees & Eligibility

IGNOU MSC Admission 2026 for the upcoming January session will begin from 20th December 2025*. There are several MSC specializations like Geoinformatics, Mathematics, Physics, Applied Statistics, Chemistry, Zoology, etc. Master of Science is a postgraduate degree course offered for a course length of 2 years and 4 semesters. To be eligible for IGNOU MSC admission, students need to graduate with a bachelor’s degree(B.SC) in any discipline from a recognized university. All the programs are available in ODL mode, with English as the main medium. Any MSC program fee is expected to start from INR 14,000/- to INR 20,000 per year, depending on the specializations. The syllabus will include core and elective courses, practical and projects, and lab sessions are also applicable to some programs. Students can also avail higher studies such as an MPHIL or PhD. Apply on the @ignou.samarth.edu.in portal along with the application fee of INR 300/- before 15th January 2026*. 

IGNOU MSc Admission: Latest Updates

• 01 Dec 2025: IGNOU Master of Science (MSc) program admission will soon begin for the January 2026 academic session. Students can fill the online admission form on the IGNOU official portal till 15 January 2026*. Source 

IGNOU MSc Admission 2026 Overview

• About MSc: IGNOU offers MSc programs through distance learning education, focusing on flexible learning for working professionals and students. This program provides in-depth knowledge in specialized scientific areas like mathematics, Environmental Science, Data Science, and others.
• Program Duration: 2 years minimum, 5 years maximum.
• Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject with 50% marks (45% for reserved categories)
• How to Apply: Candidates who are interested in the MSc online should visit the official admission website of IGNOU @ignou.ac.in, register, and fill out the online application form.
• Average Salary: The average salary after completing an MSc course from IGNOU ranges from Rs 3.5 Lakh per year to Rs 8.5 Lakh per year, depending on the job role and experience.
• Curriculum: The core subjects are a Blend of theory, practical work, and projects
• Fees: This course costs Rs. 7,500 – Rs. 17,500 per year, approximately.

IGNOU MSc Admission Highlight 2026-27

About IGNOU MSc Admission

IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University) offers a wide range of  Master of Science (M.Sc) programs through Open & Distance Learning mode. Interested students can select specialization from several areas like Physics, Chemistry, Applied Statistics,Geography, Environmental Science, Information Security and many more. Candidates can take admission directly without any entrance test. Admission for IGNOU MSc programs is usually done online through the IGNOU’s official portal, candidates simply need to register themselves at the portal, fill the form, and pay the fee. The minimum duration of these Master’s degree programs is 2 years which can be completed by the students in the maximum duration of 4 years. IGNOU’s MSc program is very useful for those who want to continue higher studies, improve job prospects and want to upgrade their professional skills while studying at their own pace. These MSc specializations are a very good option for learners who want a flexible, affordable recognized PG degree in science. 

IGNOU MSc Admission: Eligibility Criteria

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) provides several Master of Science (MSc) programs/specialization in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode. The minimum duration of these courses is 2 years which can be extended up to 4 years. Candidates who want to seek admission at IGNOU for its MSc programs need to meet the following eligibility criteria. 

1. Academic Qualifications: Applicants generally need to have passed their graduation degree in science related field from a certified university. 
2. Marks Requirements: Candidates also need to secure at least 45% to 50% aggregate marks at their graduation level. 
3. Entrance Exam: There is no entrance exam required for IGNOU MSc program, students can take direct admission on the basis of their academic score of the last qualifying examination. 
4. Age Restrictions: There is no age restriction for admission. 

IGNOU MSc Admission Selection Criteria

• Merit-based admission
• Marks scored in qualifying bachelor’s degrees are considered
• Reservation rules are followed as per government norms
• Counseling may be conducted for some specializations

IGNOU MSc Admission Fee Structure

IGNOU MSc course fees are paid in various ways, which include the admission registration fee, the course fee, and the development fee. IGNOU MSc fees range from Rs 15,000 to Rs 60,000. Your fees are semester-wise, or you can pay them yearly as well.

• Program fee: Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 60,000 (varies by specialization)
• Payable in two installments per year
• Exam fee extra: Rs. 150 per theory course
• Project evaluation fee: Rs. 600
• SC/ST students get a fee concession

If the cancellation request is received after MCA admission in IGNOU, an amount equal to 15% of the programme fee, up to a maximum of Rs 2,000, may be deducted from the fee paid.

The total fee for the IGNOU MSc course is ₹28,000, which students must pay semester-wise. Registration is free, with a one-time submission of ₹300.

IGNOU MSc Course Structure

• Semester System: The MSc course is divided into 4 semesters, which are for 2 years.
• Flexibility: This course is designed without compromising on the quality. This course is best suited for working professionals and students preparing for competitive exams.

IGNOU MSC Specialization 2026

IGNOU MSCCFT: The MSc in Counselling and Family Therapy programme at IGNOU is a course that focuses on the study of therapy as well as psychology. Students with a keen interest in the scientific world and wishing to improve their chances of achieving their long-term goals can attend this class.

IGNOU MSc in Food Nutrition: Indira Gandhi National Open University  (IGNOU) provides an MSCDFSM course, which is a 2-year course. This course provides students with in-depth knowledge about food science, research methods, biostatistics, nutrition, and food microbiology.

IGNOU MSc Geography: IGNOU is offering admission to MSc Geography for the academic year 2026. The last date to apply is 15 January 2026. The program is available in both open distance learning (ODL) and online modes. Applicants must have a graduation degree from a recognized university to be eligible.

IGNOU MSC Physics Admission – IGNOU offers a 2-year MSc Physics course in Open Distance Learning. This course provides in-depth knowledge of advanced physics concepts, equipping them with analytical, computational, and experimental skills. The fees for the MSc Physics course are Rs 14,000 to Rs 20,000 per year.

IGNOU MSc Admission Application Process

Step 1: Visit the official IGNOU website at www.ignou.ac.in

Step 2: Click on the ‘Online Admission‘ link

Step 3: If you are applying for the first time, then register as a new user

Step 4: Fill the application form with personal and academic details

Step 5: Upload scanned documents – photos, signatures, mark sheets

Step 7: Pay the application fee online

Step 8: Submit the form and note down the registration number

Step 9: Check your email for confirmation

Documents Required

For the IGNOU MSc admission, these documents are required for uploading of passport-size photographs and signature online. Identification documents require personal and educational details. IGNOU collects category certificates from students who are eligible for reservation scholarships and exemptions. The following are the documents listed.

1. Passport-size photograph
2. Scanned signature
3. 10th and 12th mark sheets
4. Graduation degree and mark sheets
5. Category certificate (if applicable)
6. ID proof

MSc Selection Process in IGNOU

IGNOU MSc selection process is very simple. Admission will be based on the merit list. There is no entrance exam required. Admission to the Master of Science courses in various specializations is given based on the candidate’s performance in the bachelor’s degree.

IGNOU MSc Physics Admission 2026

IGNOU MSc Physics is a 2-year postgraduate program. IGNOU offers this course in an online and open distance learning mode. This program aims to provide higher education at the postgraduate level in Physics. The registration fee for the MSc course is Rs 300, and a development fee of Rs 200 is charged during the admission process. This fee is a normal amount charged for the maintenance of the university’s online services and infrastructure.

IGNOU MSc Evaluation System

• Continuous evaluation through assignments (30% weightage)
• Term-end exams are held twice a year (70% weightage)
• Minimum pass marks: 40% in assignments and exams separately
• Practical exams for science subjects
• Project work/dissertation in the final year

IGNOU MSc Syllabus

The study material helps students in the upcoming term-end exams. Candidates can easily study through the available material. Students need to visit the official website of IGNOU Gyankosh @egyankosh.ac.in. 

Exact courses vary by specialization. Check the IGNOU website for a detailed syllabus.

Students get the help of IGNOU study support services like E-Gyankosh, study modules, and an online library. To help them access these services, students get an online username and password at the time of IGNOU MSc admission 2026-27.

IGNOU MSc Assignment

IGNOU usually starts accepting assignments around the beginning of the academic session. This is usually in January for the January-June session and in July for the July-December session. However, it is always best to check the official IGNOU website or your regional centre for the exact dates.

• Assignments are a compulsory part of the program
• Help in the continuous assessment of students
• Usually 2-3 assignments per course
• To be submitted to the study center before the due dates
• Feedback provided by academic counselors
• A minimum 40% score is needed to qualify for the term-end exam

What career goals can the IGNOU MSc program help achieve?

• Research Scientist: Conduct advanced research in the chosen field using analytical and experimental skills gained.
• College Lecturer: Teach undergraduate science courses with in-depth subject knowledge from the program.
• Data Analyst: Apply statistical and computational skills to analyze complex datasets in industries.
• Quality Control Manager: Ensure product/process quality in manufacturing using scientific expertise.
• Environmental Consultant: Provide solutions for environmental issues using a multidisciplinary scientific approach.

IGNOU MSc Examinations

IGNOU conducts the MSc Term-End Examination (TEE) for its students enrolled in the Master of Science (MSc) programme. These exams are usually held twice a year, in June and December, and assess students’ understanding of the course material.

Scholarship

Applications for IGNOU national-level scholarships are accepted during admission. The Government of India provides this opportunity to students from any background through the National Scholarship Portal. IGNOU students can register themselves on this portal.

IGNOU MSc Placement Information

• Research Assistant (Rs. 3-5 LPA)
• Lab Technician (Rs. 2.5-4 LPA)
• Science Teacher (Rs. 3-6 LPA)
• Technical Writer (Rs. 4-7 LPA)
• Junior Scientist (Rs. 5-8 LPA)

Note: Actual placements and salaries may vary based on specialization, location, and individual profile.

Conclusion

IGNOU’s MSc program offers a flexible and affordable way to pursue postgraduate studies in science subjects. With its recognized degree, quality study materials, and nationwide reach, it opens doors for higher education to many. The program’s structure allows working professionals to enhance their qualifications. Multiple specializations cater to diverse interests in scientific fields. While self-study is important, support is also provided through counselling sessions and practical training. Overall, IGNOU MSc can prove to be a stepping stone for science graduates to careers in research, academia, and industries.

FAQs

Q1: Is the IGNOU Degree  Valid?

Ans: IGNOU is approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and DEB, so its degree is 100% valid.

Q2: Can I do a PhD after IGNOU MSc?

Ans: Yes, IGNOU MSc degree holders are eligible to apply for PhD programs in recognized universities.

Q3: What is the admission process for IGNOU MSc?

Ans: Admission is online through the IGNOU website. No entrance exam is conducted. Selection is merit-based on graduation marks.

Q4: What is the qualification for MSc Admission to IGNOU?

Ans: Eligibility: For the IGNOU MSc distance education admission, Candidates must have passed a bachelor’s degree in a related subject with 50% marks.

Q5: Are IGNOU exams held online?
Ans: IGNOU Distance Learning and Online Courses exams are generally conducted offline, at the designated centres.

Q6: What is the IGNOU MSc Botany Fee Structure?
Ans: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) does not offer an MSc Botany fee structure.

Q7: What is the duration of the IGNOU MSC program?

Ans: IGNOU MSc is a 2-year course for graduation students.