IGNOU PGDWGS Admission 2026 has started for the July session, and this course is ideal for those interested in exploring issues around gender equality, women’s rights, and social change. The eligibility criteria for the PGDWGS program is to have a Bachelor’s degree from any recognised university. This 1-year program is open to anyone holding a bachelor’s degree in any discipline. The last date to apply is 15 July 2026. The syllabus includes topics such as feminist theory, gender and law, women in development, and media representation.
This course is especially suited for students, social workers, activists, and educators. It promotes critical thinking on gender roles and prepares learners for jobs in NGOs, research, media, or teaching. IGNOU provides study material through distance learning in both Hindi and English. Students can also submit assignments and attend optional counselling sessions. PG Diploma in Women and Gender Studies whole program fee is INR 7,200, plus Registration Fee & Development Fee as applicable for the program duration of 1-year.
IGNOU PGDWGS Admission Latest Update
- IGNOU PGDWGS admission has begun; applications are accepted through the official website for details. The last date to apply is 15 July 2026. Source
- Those students who want to continue or next year/semester can apply by 30th June 2026, for IGNOU re-registration. Source
IGNOU PGDWGS Admission 2026 Highlight Points
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Name | Post Graduate Diploma in Women’s & Gender Studies |
| Course Code | PGDWGS |
| Department | School of Gender & Development Studies (SOGDS) |
| Duration | Min: 1 year, Max: 4 years |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Course Fees | Approx. ₹7,200 |
| Age Requirements | No specific age limit |
| Eligibility Criteria | Bachelor’s degree in any discipline |
| Admission Sessions | January and July |
| Program Structure | Semester-based |
Why Choose IGNOU PGDWGSR?
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Combines perspectives from various social sciences and humanities.
- Flexible Learning: Study at your own pace while managing other commitments.
- Affordable Education: High-quality education at a fraction of the cost of regular programs.
- Expert Faculty: Learn from experienced professors in gender studies.
- Career Advancement: Gain knowledge and skills valuable in various sectors focused on gender equality.
Eligibility Criteria for IGNOU PGDWGS Admission 2026
The PG program for women offered by IGNOU is a 1-year course offered in ODL and online, both, both. Candidates who are seeking admission into IGNOU for PGDWGS (Post Graduate Diploma in Women’s and Gender Studies) must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Academic Qualifications: Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in any relevant discipline from an approved university.
- Marks Requirements: There is no minimum or maximum marks required for this program, but it’s advised that candidates secure at least 45% to 50% aggregate marks at their graduation level.
- Selection Process: No entrance exam is conducted to get IGNOU PGDWGS Admission. The University accepts direct admission on the basis of the merit score of the last qualifying examination.
- Age Limit: The university does not set any age limit for admission.
Selection Criteria for IGNOU PGDWGS Admission
- Merit-Based: Admission is granted on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible candidates.
- No Entrance Test: Selection is based on meeting the eligibility requirements and successful application submission.
- Document Verification: IGNOU verifies submitted documents to ensure eligibility.
Fee Structure
- Total Program Fee: Approximately ₹7,200 for the entire duration.
- Registration Fee: ₹200 (one-time, non-refundable).
- Course Material Fee: Included in the total program fee.
- Exam Fee: Included in the program fee.
- Fee Support: SC/ST students may be eligible for fee reimbursement as per government norms.
- Payment Options: Full payment or two instalments.
- Additional Expenses: Students should budget for internet connectivity and optional reference books.
IGNOU PGDWGS Admission Application Process
- Visit IGNOU Website: Go to www.ignou.ac.in and find the “Admission” section.
- Choose Program: Select PGDWGS from the list of available programs.
- Fill Application Form: Complete the online application with accurate personal and educational details.
- Upload Documents: Attach scanned copies of the required documents.
- Pay Application Fee: Submit the ₹200 application fee online.
- Review and Submit: Double-check all entries before final submission.
- Confirmation: Note down the application number for future reference.
- Await Verification: IGNOU will verify your application and documents.
Documents Required For IGNOU PGDWGS Admission
- Scanned passport-size photograph
- Scanned signature
- 10th and 12th mark sheets
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and final year mark sheet
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- ID proof (Aadhaar card/PAN card/Passport)
Examination Pattern
- Continuous Assessment: This includes assignments for each course, contributing 30% to the final grade. Students submit assignments online or to their study centres.
- Term-End Examination: Conducted at the end of each semester, these exams account for 70% of the final grade. They are typically held in June and December.
Students must pass both components separately to complete each course. The university provides detailed guidelines on exam patterns, question paper styles, and marking schemes in the program guide.
Evaluation System
- Continuous Evaluation: Through assignments (30% weightage).
- Term-End Examination: Written exams at the end of each semester (70% weightage).
- Grading System: Uses a 10-point grading scale.
- Minimum Pass Percentage: 40% in both assignments and term-end exams.
- Re-appearance Option: Students can reappear for failed courses in subsequent exam cycles.
IGNOU PGDWGS Admission Program Syllabus
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MWG 101 | Theories of Women’s & Gender Studies | 8 |
| MWG 102 | Gender & Power | 8 |
| MWG 103 | Constructing Gender Through Arts & Media | 8 |
| MWG 104 | Gendered Bodies & Sexualities | 8 |
| MANE 4 | Gender and Society | 8 |
Assignment Submission
- Purpose: Assignments are crucial for continuous assessment and learning reinforcement.
- Submission: Students submit assignments online or to their assigned study centres.
- Deadlines: Strict submission deadlines are set for each semester.
- Importance: Assignments help in understanding course material and preparing for term-end exams.
- Feedback: Evaluators provide feedback to help improve academic performance.
Career Scope after IGNOU PGDWGS
This diploma opens up career opportunities in the fields of social work, community development, construction, advocacy, education, policy making, etc. The program focuses on equipping students with leadership skills, understanding gender issues, and developing strategies to promote the interests of women.
- Gender Policy Analyst: Develop and analyse policies related to gender equality in government or NGO settings.
- Social Researcher: Conduct studies on gender issues, using qualitative and quantitative research methods.
- Diversity and Inclusion Specialist: Implement inclusive practices in corporate environments, focusing on gender diversity.
- Community Outreach Coordinator: Organize programs for women’s empowerment and gender sensitisation in local communities.
- Academic Pursuer: Continue to higher studies like MA or PhD in Gender Studies or related fields.
More IGNOU Courses
FAQs
Q: Is IGNOU 2026 admission open?
Ans: Admissions for the July 2026 session are open, and applications are submitted through samarth portal till 15th July 2026.
Q: When will IGNOU hall ticket June 2026 release?
Ans: The hall ticket has been released. Visit the website more often to get more information.
Q: How to check assignment submission status?
Ans: To check assignment status, students are required to visit the official IGNOU website, then navigate to the student zone, enter their enrolment number and course code, and select assignment status.
Q: What job prospects are available after completing PGDWGS?
Ans: Graduates may find opportunities in NGOs, government agencies, research institutes, and corporate sectors focusing on gender issues and diversity.
Q: Does IGNOU conduct entrance exams for a diploma in women’s studies?
Ans: IGNOU does not conduct any entrance exam for PGDWGS in any course except B.ed and a few other courses.
