There are various programmes under the convergence scheme.There are various certified, Diploma,Degree and Master programmes that are offered to the students under the Convergence Scheme.For most of the Diploma and Certificate programmes the eligibility criteria varies depending upon the nature and requirement of the programme. In most cases it is 10+2 and wherever required even a Bachelor’s degree is prescribed. Generally there is no bar on age except for programmes where the prescribed age is 18 years.
However the University follows the same entry requirements as prescribed by the UGC for all degree programmes. It also provides an opportunity for those without any formal qualification but who are 18 years of age (as per the UGC specifications), can pursue a BA or B Com degree programme by enrolling in the Bachelors Preparatory Programme (BPP) and on successful completion of the same.
Unlike conventional universities where the duration of a programme is fixed, IGNOU learners are given the option to complete the programme within the minimum period or maximum period.
For example a student enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree programme has to complete it within a period of three years at a Conventional University.
At IGNOU, a student enrolled in a particular programme can complete it within the minimum period or within the maximum period as given in Table-1.
Table-I Flexibility of Entry and Exit
Level of the programme |
No. of credits |
Minimum Period |
Maximum Period |
Certificate |
12-18 |
6 months |
2 years |
Diploma/PG Diploma |
28-36 |
1 year |
3-4 years |
Bachelor’s Degree (General/Professional) |
96-100 |
3 years |
5-6 years |
Bachelor’s Degree |
160-165 |
4/5 years |
5-10 years |
2nd Bachelor’s Degree |
48 |
1 year |
4 years |
Master’s Degree |
64-72 |
2 years |
4-5 years |
Master’s Degree |
96-124 |
3 years |
4-6 years |
M.Phil |
48 |
1½ years |
|
PhD (without M.Phil) |
96-100 |
4 years |
|
PhD (with M.Phil) |
60-64 |
2 years |
|
Diploma (Technical) |
|
2-3 years |
5-6 years |
Certificate (Professional) |
|
1 year |
3 years |
Programmes |
Duration |
Re-admission Period |
Certificate Programmes |
6 months |
6 months |
Diploma Programmes |
1 year |
1 year |
Bachelor’s Degree Programmes |
3 years |
2 years |
Master’s Degree Programmes |
2 years |
2 years |
For more information Download the following structure of the programmes.
