About
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) in India is globally renowned as one of the largest mega-universities in the world, specializing in flexible distance and open learning across a massive spectrum of academic disciplines. Its strongest programs lie in the humanities, social sciences, computer applications, commerce, and business administration, all delivered through comprehensive print, audio-visual, and online mediums. For international students, the university offers a specialized International Division that coordinates admissions, support, and study material delivery specifically tailored to diaspora and foreign students residing outside India. While instruction is primarily in English for its international offerings, students benefit from a decentralized support network of partner study centers spanning multiple countries globally. Its most distinctive characteristic is the provision of affordable, accessible higher education to over three million active learners worldwide, making it uniquely suited for working professionals seeking accredited degrees without relocating.
Background
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is a central open and distance learning university located in Delhi, India. Named after the former prime minister of India, Indira Gandhi, the university was established in 1985 with a budget of ₹20 million, after the Parliament of India passed the Indira Gandhi National Open University Act, 1985 (IGNOU Act 1985). IGNOU, operated by the Government of India is the world's largest university, with enrollment of over 3,000,000 students. It provides 333 academic programs through its 21 Schools of Studies, supported by a network of 67 Regional Centres and 2,257 Learner Support Centres (LSCs). IGNOU has achieved an all-time high in total registrations, reaching 753,286 for the 2023–24 period (covering the admission cycle of July 2023 and January 2024). Of these, 352,354 students enrolled in bachelor's degree programs, with the Bachelor of Arts (BAG) being the most popular, garnering 109,840 registrations. IGNOU had started a decentralisation process by setting up five zones: north, south, east, west and north-east. The Ministry of Education has entrusted the responsibility...
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Wondering if Indira Gandhi National Open University is the right fit for you?
SchoolScout builds a personalized college list — reach, match, and safety schools — tailored to your profile, grades, and goals. Get financial aid estimates, scholarship guidance, and deep dives on every school.