IGNOU BA {Hons.} Economics: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

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Content Curator | Updated on - Mar 31, 2026

IGNOU BA (Hons.) Economics (BAECH) - Distance Learning

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Economics (BAECH) at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is a 3-year undergraduate honours programme offered through Open Distance Learning (ODL) mode under the School of Social Sciences. Launched under the UGC Choice Based Credit System (CBCS) from January 2020, the programme is a comprehensive 148-credit course covering Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Mathematical Methods for Economics, Statistical Methods, Econometrics, Indian Economy, Development Economics, and elective areas such as Environmental Economics, Financial Economics, and Applied Econometrics. The total programme fee is Rs. 15,900 for 3 years (Rs. 5,300 per year), making it one of the most affordable honours-level economics programmes in India. No entrance exam is required, and admission is open to any student who has passed 10+2 from a recognised board. The programme is highly popular among students aspiring for careers in banking, finance, civil services, research, and academia, and is valued for its rigorous curriculum and flexible study mode.

Admission for the January 2026 session is currently ongoing. The last date for fresh admission has been extended to 30th March 2026. Students can apply online at the IGNOU Admission Portal (ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in). The July 2026 session admissions are expected to open tentatively in May 2026, with a last date around July-August 2026, based on the previous year's schedule.

Distance Mode Study Centres:

IGNOU's BAECH programme is offered through a wide network of Regional Centres and Study Centres (LSCs) across India. Key Regional Centres offering this programme include:

  • Hyderabad (RC Code: 01)
  • Karnal (RC Code: 10)
  • Shimla (RC Code: 11)
  • Jammu (RC Code: 12)
  • Bangalore (RC Code: 13)
  • Cochin (RC Code: 14)
  • Bhopal (RC Code: 15)
  • Pune (RC Code: 16)
  • Imphal (RC Code: 17)
  • Shillong (RC Code: 18)
  • Aizawl (RC Code: 19)
  • Port Blair (RC Code: 02)
  • Kohima (RC Code: 20)
  • Bhubaneswar (RC Code: 21)
  • Khanna (RC Code: 22)
  • Jaipur (RC Code: 23)
  • Gangtok (RC Code: 24)
  • Chennai (RC Code: 25)
  • Agartala (RC Code: 26)
  • Lucknow (RC Code: 27)
  • Kolkata (RC Code: 28)
  • Delhi 1, Delhi 2, Delhi 3 (RC Codes: 07, 29, 38)
  • Itanagar (RC Code: 03)
  • Srinagar (RC Code: 30)
  • Dehradun (RC Code: 31)
  • Ranchi (RC Code: 32)
  • Vijayawada (RC Code: 33)
  • Raipur (RC Code: 35)
  • Nagpur (RC Code: 36)
  • Jorhat (RC Code: 37)
  • Noida (RC Code: 39)
  • Guwahati (RC Code: 04)
  • Trivandrum (RC Code: 40)
  • Jabalpur (RC Code: 41)
  • Rajkot (RC Code: 42)
  • Madurai (RC Code: 43)
  • Koraput (RC Code: 44)
  • Siliguri (RC Code: 45)
  • Darbhanga (RC Code: 46)
  • Aligarh (RC Code: 47)
  • Varanasi (RC Code: 48)
  • Mumbai (RC Code: 49)
  • Patna (RC Code: 05)
  • Chandigarh (RC Code: 06)
  • Vatakara (RC Code: 83)
  • Visakhapatnam (RC Code: 84)
  • Bijapur (RC Code: 85)
  • Deoghar (RC Code: 87)
  • Jodhpur (RC Code: 88)
  • Ahmedabad (RC Code: 09)

Students can locate their nearest study centre using the IGNOU Study Centre Locator on the official website.

Key Points

  • The BAECH is a 148-credit honours programme under UGC-CBCS, covering 14 Core Courses, 4 Discipline Specific Electives, 2 Ability Enhancement Compulsory Courses, 2 Skill Enhancement Courses, and 4 Generic Electives.
  • The programme includes quantitative courses like Mathematical Methods for Economics (I and II), Statistical Methods, and Introductory Econometrics, making it analytically rigorous.
  • Offered in both English and Hindi medium, making it accessible to learners across India.
  • No entrance exam is required; admission is based purely on eligibility.
  • There is no age bar, making it suitable for working professionals and adult learners.
  • The programme uses a 10-point grading system under CBCS, which is widely accepted by universities for higher education admissions.
  • Term-End Examinations (TEE) are conducted twice a year - in June and December.
  • The programme is particularly popular among UPSC aspirants, as Economics is a sought-after optional subject.
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IGNOU Latest Updates and News

26 May, 2026 IGNOU Admission 2026 (Jul Session) is open for all ODL programs. Apply by Jul 15, 2026.

06 May, 2026 IGNOU has opened re-registration for the Jul 2026 session for all ODL and Online programs. Register now! The last date to apply @ignou.ac.in is Jun 30, 2026.

IGNOU Important Events

ODL1

IGNOU BAECH Fees

The BAECH programme at IGNOU is priced at Rs. 5,300 per year, payable annually for 3 years. A one-time non-refundable Registration Fee of Rs. 300 is charged at the time of fresh admission. Examination fees are charged separately at the time of TEE registration and are not included in the programme fee. The total programme cost (excluding exam fees) comes to Rs. 16,200 over 3 years.

Fee Components

Fee ComponentAmount (Per Year)Total (3 Years)
Programme/Tuition FeeRs. 5,300Rs. 15,900
Registration Fee (one-time)Rs. 300Rs. 300
University Development FeeAs applicableAs applicable
Examination Fee (per course per exam)Rs. 120 per courseVaries
Total Fees (excluding exam fee)Rs. 5,600 (Year 1)Rs. 16,200
  • The Registration Fee of Rs. 300 is non-refundable.
  • Examination fees are paid separately at the time of filling the exam form and are not included in the programme fee.
  • SC/ST students may be eligible for fee concession on programme fee, subject to family income not exceeding Rs. 2.5 lakh per annum and other conditions as per IGNOU notification.
  • Fee can be paid online via Credit Card, Debit Card (Visa/Master/RuPay), or Net Banking.
  • In case of cancellation after confirmation of admission, 15% of programme fee (subject to a ceiling of Rs. 2,000) will be deducted. No refund is admissible after 60 days of the closing date of admissions.

IGNOU BAECH Admission 2026

IGNOU conducts admissions for the BAECH programme twice a year - in the January session (admissions open November-February/March) and the July session (admissions open May-August). The admission process is entirely online through the IGNOU Samarth Admission Portal. There is no entrance exam; admission is granted based on eligibility. The January 2026 session is currently open with the last date extended to 30th March 2026.

IGNOU BAECH Admission Dates

EventJanuary 2026 SessionJuly 2026 Session (Tentative)
Admission Portal OpensDecember 16, 2025May 2026
Last Date for Fresh AdmissionMarch 30, 2026July/August 2026
Re-registration Start DateDecember 1, 2025May 2026
Last Date for Re-registrationMarch 30, 2026July 2026
Distribution of Study Material (SLM)January - March 2026July - September 2026
Contact Programmes / CounsellingFebruary - November 2026August 2026 onwards
Assignment SubmissionMarch - September 2026October 2026 - March 2027
Term-End Examination (TEE)June 2026December 2026
Declaration of ResultsAugust 2026February 2027

Entrance Exam Dates

Entrance Exam Dates
No entrance exam is required for IGNOU BAECH admission. Admission is open to all eligible candidates on a merit-neutral basis.

The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Candidates must have passed 10+2 (Higher Secondary) or equivalent from a recognised board.
  • No specific subject requirement at 10+2 level; the programme is open to students from any stream.
  • There is no minimum percentage requirement and no age bar.

Admission Process

  • Visit the IGNOU Admission Portal at ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in and click on New Registration.
  • Create a username and password, then log in and select the BAECH programme.
  • Fill in personal and academic details, and upload scanned copies of photograph, signature, 10th and 12th marksheets, and category certificate (if applicable).
  • Pay the programme fee and registration fee online via Credit/Debit Card or Net Banking.
  • Download and save the application form and payment receipt for future reference.
  • Await confirmation of admission via email/SMS; check status on the admission portal.

IGNOU: Students' Opinion

AI-Generated Summary based on 4 Reviews

The university boasts a highly qualified and supportive faculty, facilitating open communication through platforms like Telegram or WhatsApp. They are involved in both teaching and research, contributing to a strong educational environment. However, students face challenges with exam difficulty and unpredictable results. The distance education program offers affordable fees that vary by course. The annual fee for honors in arts is approximately 3000 INR, a Bachelor of Science is around 6000 INR, a Bachelor in English costs about 4500 INR, while a B.Com in Financial and Cost Accounting is about 2000 INR.

Skill-related courses range from 25000 to 30000 INR annually. Structured fees include three registrations at 5600 INR each and assignment/exam fees of 200 INR per subject, totaling around 25000 INR per year for a student at Indira Gandhi National Open University. Scholarships and financial aid details can be obtained from the university office. While the program is credible for further education or employment, inconsistencies in class attendance due to teacher shortages are noted, though assignment submissions are managed at the center.

Fees are subject to annual increases.

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 By Collegedunia’s Personal AI

IGNOU BAECH Scholarships 2026

IGNOU students enrolled in BAECH are eligible for a range of scholarships from both the university and the Government of India. SC/ST students can avail fee concessions directly from IGNOU, subject to income criteria. Additionally, students can apply for Central and State Government scholarships through the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) after confirmation of admission.

Scholarship Details

ScholarshipEligibilityBenefitHow to Apply
IGNOU SC/ST Fee ConcessionSC/ST students with family income up to Rs. 2.5 lakh/yearFee concession on programme fee (as per IGNOU notification)Apply at the time of admission through IGNOU portal; upload caste and income certificate
NSP - Post Matric Scholarship (SC)SC students; family income up to Rs. 2.5 lakh/yearFull/partial fee reimbursement + maintenance allowanceApply at scholarships.gov.in after admission confirmation
NSP - Post Matric Scholarship (ST)ST students; family income up to Rs. 2.5 lakh/yearFull/partial fee reimbursement + maintenance allowanceApply at scholarships.gov.in after admission confirmation
NSP - OBC Post Matric ScholarshipOBC students; family income up to Rs. 1 lakh/yearPartial fee reimbursementApply at scholarships.gov.in after admission confirmation
NSP - Minority Post Matric ScholarshipMinority community students; family income up to Rs. 2 lakh/yearPartial fee reimbursementApply at scholarships.gov.in after admission confirmation
State Government ScholarshipsVaries by state; based on category and incomeVariesApply through respective State Scholarship Portal
  • IGNOU's SC/ST fee concession is applicable only if the student is not availing any other scholarship from Central/State Government.
  • An affidavit to this effect must be submitted at the time of applying for the IGNOU fee concession.
  • DEB-ID is mandatory for availing IGNOU fee concession.
  • Students are advised to apply for NSP scholarships immediately after confirmation of admission, as deadlines are typically in October-November each year.

IGNOU BAECH FAQs

Ques. I am from a Science background. Can I apply for IGNOU BAECH (BA Hons. Economics)?

Ans. Yes. The BAECH programme at IGNOU requires only 10+2 or equivalent from a recognised board, with no specific stream requirement. Students from Science, Commerce, or Arts backgrounds are all eligible to apply. Many science students choose Economics for its analytical and quantitative nature.

Ques. Is IGNOU BAECH equivalent to a regular BA (Hons.) Economics from Delhi University or other central universities?

Ans. Yes. IGNOU is a Central University established by an Act of Parliament, and its degrees are recognised by the UGC and Association of Indian Universities (AIU). The BAECH degree is equivalent to a BA (Hons.) Economics from any other recognised university and is accepted for higher education admissions, government jobs, and competitive exams.

Ques. The BAECH has courses like Mathematical Methods and Econometrics. Is it difficult for students without a strong Maths background?

Ans. The Mathematical Methods for Economics courses (BECC-102 and BECC-104) are designed for economics students and cover topics like calculus, linear algebra, and optimisation at an introductory level. Students with basic 10+2 Mathematics should be able to manage. IGNOU provides comprehensive self-learning materials, and students can attend counselling sessions at their study centres for additional support.

Ques. Can I use IGNOU BAECH as a qualification for UPSC Civil Services with Economics as an optional subject?

Ans. Yes. The BAECH curriculum covers many topics that overlap with the UPSC Economics optional syllabus, including Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Indian Economy, Development Economics, and Econometrics. However, UPSC preparation requires additional study beyond the IGNOU curriculum, and students are advised to supplement with standard reference books.

Ques. How does the grading system work in BAECH? Will my CGPA be accepted for M.A. Economics admissions?

Ans. BAECH uses a 10-point grading system under CBCS. Your performance is evaluated through Tutor Marked Assignments (TMAs) and Term-End Examinations (TEEs). The CGPA awarded is widely accepted by universities for M.A. Economics admissions. Most universities have a conversion formula to convert CGPA to percentage for admission purposes.

Ques. I enrolled in BAECH but am struggling with the Econometrics course. What support does IGNOU provide?

Ans. IGNOU provides multiple support mechanisms: comprehensive self-learning materials (SLMs), academic counselling sessions at your study centre (usually on weekends), audio-video programmes, and online resources through eGyanKosh. You can also contact your Programme Coordinator (Prof. BS Prakash, baech@ignou.ac.in) for academic guidance. If you fail a course, you can re-appear in the next TEE without repeating the entire year.

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This is a frequently asked question among students navigating higher education decisions.

Important considerations:

  • Research Thoroughly: Verify information through official websites, NIRF rankings, and authentic reviews.
  • Campus Visits: Attend open houses or virtual tours to understand infrastructure and culture.
  • Alumni Insights: Connect with graduates for honest feedback about academics and placements.
  • Document Verification: Check NBA/NAAC accreditation, UGC approval, and affiliations.
  • Career Alignment: Ensure the program aligns with your long-term professional goals.

For the most accurate information, contact the college admission office directly or consult the official prospectus and website.

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how to change subject/course/medium at IGNOU:

IGNOU allows changes in certain circumstances:

  • Subject change: possible within the first 30 days of admission for the current session. visit your regional center or apply through ignou.ac.in ? student zone ? program change/subject change
  • Program/course change: if you want to switch to a completely different program (e.g., BA to BCA), you generally cannot transfer — you must re-apply for the new program fresh. some provisions exist within the same school/faculty
  • Medium change: can typically be changed with a written request to your regional study center

the annual window for changes is narrow — usually the first month of each admission cycle (Jan or July). after the window, changes are not generally accepted. visit ignou.ac.in ? student support or your nearest IGNOU regional center. bring your enrollment ID and relevant documents. call your regional center to confirm the current process as IGNOU procedures can vary slightly by center.

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The Diploma Programme in Early Childhood Care and Education at IGNOU is a 1 year program. It is a very suitable program with no age bar. It is a holistic program that trains the students and helps them develop the knowledge, attitude and skills necessary for working with young children who are up to 6 years of age. Through this course, you will be trained to organize and manage child-care centers like crèches, preschools, nursery schools, kindergartens, and day-care centers.

Students who are above 18 years old are eligible for the early childhood course at IGNOU. The minimum educational qualification for this course is 10+2 or its equivalent. After fulfilling the eligibility criteria you can fill out the application form and submit it along with the required documents. The required documents for this course are proof of high school completion certificate, a criminal background check, and a certain GPA. There are 4 sections of the Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education (DECE) course in IGNOU given below:

  • DECE-1 Organizing Child Care Services
  •  DECE-2 Child Health and Nutrition
  •  DECE-3 Services and Programmer for Children
  •  DECE-4 Project Work: Working With Young Children in a Child Care Setting

The admission process to Diploma in Childhood Care and Education at IGNOU does not require any entrance examination. 

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To enrol in a certificate course at IGNOU, you simply need to go to their official website @https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in./ and submit the online application form.

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IGNOU re-registration is required to allow students to continue taking classes for the upcoming semester or academic year. This applies to both Indian and international students enrolled in IGNOU.

For re-registration, one needs to go to the official website @https://onlinerr.ignou.ac.in/, fill up the form and make the online payment. 

IGNOU July 2024 session re-registration will be done from May 1 - June 30, 2024.

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Students who want to be admitted to the M.Sc program at IGNOU must fulfil the eligibility criteria. Students must be science graduates with 50% marks. Students can join the M.Sc program in both Hindi and English language.

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No, according to my knowledge, you cannot apply for an MCom in IGNOU having a supplementary in a subject. To be eligible for MCom in IGNOU, you need a bachelor's degree in the relevant subject. 

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The last date for admission to MSc for 2024 is 30th June. The last date for MSc re-registration is 30th June. And, the last date for submission of the exam form is 25th May. The MSc admission form for any specialization at IGNOU is available on the official website. The link to the admission portal is @ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in.

The registration fee is INR 300 for the MSc course. IGNOU offers a total of 16 subjects as MSc specialization and it is a 2-year postgraduate degree.

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