Is selective IGNOU BA and MA political science sufficient for political science optional in UPSC?

One of my sister's acquaintances wrote 2016 mains with PSIR optional. She had been working in an IT firm till a month before prelims and had been preparing for a year before. Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) is quite fast. The study material provided by IGNOU is good for selective reading for specific topics like Justice, Equality, MN Roy, Sri Aurobindo, Theory of international relations etc. But she had an engineering background and revealed that the notes were not of premium quality. Paper 1- Part A Gauba is not bad. But you will need to read the book more than one time to interpret it completely. The information has been divided unevenly within the chapters making it a difficult read. One more good source is Shubra Ranjan's notes. They summarise the points in the UPSC syllabus format. Paper 1- Part B Complete Laxmikant.Read the interpretations given by famous analysts, their viewpoints, case laws and their history and the politics that played behind the evolution of laws and how and why the judiciary evolved. Again for this look into Shubra Ranjan notes. For the remaining topics look into Oxford publications. Paper 2- part A For this part, the best recommendation is Heywood’s global politics. It’s easy to understand and very well written. Combine this with IGNOU notes and you will get good results. You can also go through questions given in Baylis and Smith because sometimes they appear verbatim and quoting the exact same viewpoint can get you some extra points. Paper 2 - Part B Conduct internet research and make your own notes on the topics included in the syllabus. Then go through commentaries on IDSA /IPCS websites. This will give you a better understanding of and current status of relations. Once you are done with all the study materials, focus on developing the vocabulary for PSIR. Make sure your answers are evenly distributed with theories, quotes, facts, years etc. Practice writing answers a lot.

How to apply forIGNOU admission?

The candidates seeking admission can apply through the IGNOU Online admissionportal within the stipulated time.Candidates can also re-register for certain UG, PG, and Research courses offered by IGNOU before the stipulated timethrough theIGNOU re-registration portal. For admission to most of the IGNOU courses offered by the University, candidates are shortlisted for admission based on marks obtained in the qualifying degree. However, in the case of some specific courses, the University conducts an admission test for the selection of students.

When will I be notified about my acceptance at IGNOU?

You will be notified of your acceptance usually withintwo months after the receipt of your application in the Regional Centre when the review process has been completed.

What is the system of evaluation at IGNOU?

IGNOU follows a multi-tier system of evaluation - self-assessment exercises within each unit of study, continuous evaluation mainly through assignments which are tutor-marked, practical assignments as well as several seminars/workshops/extended contact programs, term-end examination, project work, etc. The evaluation of students willdepend on various instructional activities that they undertake. All assignments must be submitted by the stipulated date as announced by the university. These assignments are conducted before term examinations.

What is the registration fee at IGNOU, and the mode of payment?

Candidates can find their respective fee structures based on the course on the universitys official website. Make a draft in favour of IGNOU payable at the city where your Regional Centre is situated. For BScN (PostBasic), PGDHHM, PGDGM, PGDMCH, DNA, CCENAM, CNIC, CMCHC), the registration fee is INR 100. The candidates of PGDCC will also pay a registration fee of INR 500. The Programme Fee will be collected from the candidates upon their selection.

What are the documents required for IGNOU admission?

The following documents are mandatory and must be produced at the time of application:Print out the filled online admission form with photograph affixed and duly signed.Demand Draft/Cash Challan for the programme Fee / Fee for the first year/semester and have written your name, programme code, and online Control No on the reverse. The Demand Draft should be in favour of IGNOU and payable at the city of the Regional Centre opted.Attested copies of certificates in support of youreducationalqualification(s). If you are applying for BCA and have studied Mathematics at the 10+2 level, attach the mark sheet as proof.Experiencecertificate, where required.Categorycertificate for SC/ST/PH/Minority candidates.Agecertificate wherever required

Are the Degree/Diploma Certificates provided by IGNOU recognized?

IGNOU Degrees/Diplomas/Certificates are recognized by all member universities of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) and UGC. All the degrees and diplomas offered by IGNOU are UGC recognized and areat par with Degrees/Diplomas/ Certificates of all Indian Universities/ Institutions.

Is there any provision for scholarships or reimbursement of fees in IGNOU?

Candidates belonging to reserved categories, i.e, SC, ST, and Differently abled candidates, are eligible for fee reimbursement by the state government. Apart from this, IGNOU also promotes Scholarship schemes like the National Centre for Promotion of Employment of Disabled People (NCPEDP) for postgraduate-level programs. The scholarship can be obtained by applying at the NCPEDP website.

If I want to withdraw from the program after confirmation of my admission, will I get a fee refund from IGNOU?

The fee, once paid, is not refundable under anycircumstances. The admission fee paid by students will also not be adjusted in any other program. However, in case the university denies admission, the programme fee will be refunded after the deduction of the processing fee in the same mode in which the payment was made.

What is the time frame for getting confirmation of my admission in IGNOU?

The admission form submitted by all the applicantsneeds to be scrutinized, verified, and accepted by the Regional Centre concerned for confirmation of theadmission. It is the responsibility of the Regional Centre to communicate with the applicants as soon as the process is completed. If the candidate hasnot been approached by the Regional Centre, the applicant can visitthe Regional Centre and seek information.

Does IGNOU have a grievance redressal cell?

Yes, the IGNOU has a grievance redressal cell for the students, which is well recognised as the Student Service Centre (SSC). The SSC helps the students in providing the best solutions to the problems related to any issues. There are helpline numbers also provided on the official website of the IGNOU.

Does IGNOU have an Internal Quality Assurance Cell?

IGNOU has an Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), the objectives of which are to:Act as a coordinating unit for seeking recognition/ approval from all the apex bodies in the country.Undertake self-evaluative and reflexive exercises for continual improvement in all the systems and processes of the university.

Does IGNOU have accommodation facilities?

Being an open university, IGNOU does not provide any hostel facilities to the students. However, the students can opt for PGs nearby. The rent of these PGs ranges from INR 8,000 to INR 15,000 per month with food facility. The rooms can be given on a single or sharing basis in these PGs.

What are the documents required at the time of admission to IGNOU?

The following documents are required at the time of admission to IGNOU:Scanned Photograph (less than 100 KB in size)Scanned Signature (less than 100 KB in size)Scanned copy of Age ProofScanned copy of relevant Educational Qualification (less than 400 KB in size)Scanned Copy of Experience Certificate (if any) (less than 400 KB in size)Scanned Copy of Category Certificate, if SC/ST/OBC (less than 400 KB in size)Scanned Copy of BPL Certificate, if Below Poverty Line(less than 400 KB in size)

What are the popular courses inIGNOU?

The popular courses of IGNOU are B.Ed., M.B.A., M.Ed., B.Lib.I.Sc., M.A., M.Sc. & BBA. Admission to all these courses is provided on the basis walk -in- admission system. There are some courses, like MBA, for which the students have to give the entrance exam of the Open MAT.

Are semester exams at IGNOU hard to clear?

An in-depth description of each topic is provided in the university's syllabus. There are several details associated with each topic, which students may review and record for both their assignments andexams. It is not difficult to clear the IGNOU semester exams, even though it may seem challenging.

Is itpossible to pursue more than onecourse at IGNOU?

Yes, according to a new circular released by UGC, students can now pursue two full-time courses or two distance courses at IGNOU. This is applicable only if one chooses the same mode of study, such as regular, online, or distance, for both courses.

How are classes conducted for IGNOU distance courses?

For IGNOU online courses, classes are only scheduled using the online mode. Therefore,students who take up online courses are not required to travel elsewhere. They have the convenience of being able to attend their classes from their home. Classes areprovided during weekends for the convenience of learners who are pursuing IGNOU distance coursesalong with their jobs.

Do foreign institutes acceptMaster's degrees from IGNOU?

The degree from IGNOU University is easily accepted and recognised in other countries sinceIGNOU isa government-run institution with UGC recognition. Moreover, DEC and AICTE have both approved the degree courses ofthis university.

What is the minimum grade one needs to obtain in IGNOU assignments and exams to pass?

To pass a course, IGNOU students must receive at least a "D" on all of their assignments and term-end exams. Nonetheless, to complete a programme from IGNOU, the total average must be at least a "C." Candidates cannot neglect assignments because they have a 30% weightage in each IGNOU programme. A course is not complete without assignments. Each IGNOU student must also complete and turn in their assignments to the Study Center before the deadline. Any student who is unable to submit is not permitted to take the IGNOU University's term-end exam.

How to register on the IGNOU Student Portal?

By following the steps below, one can register on the IGNOU student portal and create your student account.Go to https://ignou.samarth.edu.in and click on New registration.Provide the Name, Program, and enrollment number, and submit.You will receive a One-time Password (OTP) at the email address you have on file. Please follow the instructions and input the OTP on the following screen. Please rememberthe password you chose.Oncesuccessfully registered, you may go back to https://ignou.samarth.edu.in and log in. Your username is your Enrollment Number.

When will I get confirmation of my IGNOU online admission?

The verification procedure of IGNOU online admissionis time-consuming. If a student checks the IGNOU website to see if they have been admitted, it may or may not display the information correctly. Then, it is advised to hold on for a few days. Within seven days of thesuccessful submission of the application, the institution notifies the applicant about whetherthey have been admitted or not.

How to receive the original degree from IGNOU after the completion of the course?

After the completion of the course, one can get the original certificate by filling out the IGNOU convocation registration form and paying the online fees for the degree. On the convocation day,the original certificate will be presented to the students who have successfully finished their course. However, if you are unable to attend the convocation despite paying the fee, IGNOU will send your degree/certificate to your registered address via Post.

Does IGNOU allow to change of course after being admitted?

IGNOU allows the change of electives or coursesfor undergraduate courses within 30 days of receiving the initial batch of course materials for a fee of INR200 for a 4-credit course or portion of a course, and INR 400 for an 8-credit course. For the Master's Degree Program, the cost is INR 400 for 2/4 credits and INR800 for the 6/8 credits program.

Does IGNOU offer any certificate courses?

IGNOU provides a variety of courses ranging from undergraduate, postgraduate, certificate, advanced certificate, and more. The duration of the certificate courses is as short as 6 months and goes up to 2 years. Some specializations offered are Agricultural Policy, Cyber Law, Adult Education, Patent Practice, Teaching of English as a Second Language, and more.

Does IGNOU take CUET scores for any course?

IGNOU does not give admission based on the CUET entrance exam. Admissions to most of the courses are based on a candidate's merit in the qualifying examination. Therefore, students who could not appear in CUET can take admission into the National Open University.

Can I get IGNOU scholarships for PG courses?

Indira Gandhi National Open University or IGNOU offers financial assistance to students from the economically weaker section, the physically challenged, Jail Inmates, and more. The financial assistance extends to SC, ST students, and transgender applicants too. MPhil and PhD students can apply for scholarships of up to INR 8,000 per month. Meanwhile other Scholarships include Merit Cum Means Scholarship For Professional and Technical Courses CS, Top Class Education for students with disabilities, and more.

Can students access the library facility at IGNOU?

Yes, students can access the library and its resources by visiting the nearest IGNOU study centres. Enrolled students must get a library subscription card to use the library facility and issue books for study purposes.

Do PwD students get scribe facilities for IGNOU annual exams?

IGNOU provides scribes to students with disability or PwD applicants at different study centres. The student must have at least 40% or more benchmark disability to get a scribe. Moreover, students will get extra time to complete their examination with a scribe. Learners with disability should submit a valid disability certificate, which the university will verify.

Is IGNOU examination fee waived off for PwD students?

Students belonging to Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, OBC, Minority, and PwD categories can avail of the reimbursement of fees. These reimbursements or fees are offered by State Governments, UGC, National Governments, and more.

Can international students get admission into IGNOU?

Yes, IGNOU degrees are recognized in numerous countries around the world. Therefore, it attracts 15 countries and 21 overseas centres for students to pursue distance education overseas. There are centres in the UAE, UK, Qatar, Kuwait, Afghanistan, Singapore, Maldives, China, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and many more countries.

What is the PhD selection process at IGNOU?

Like any other recognised Indian University, IGNOU also conducts a Ph.D. entrance test and a personal interview round for PhD aspirants. The selection will be made on the marks obtained in these exams. Moreover, NET-qualified students are exempted from the written test to pursue a doctorate.

Howto find IGNOU Admit card?

Enrolled students must have the IGNOU admit card to appear for the exams. Students can download the hall ticket or the admit card from the official website by following the steps:Visit the IGNOU official websiteNavigate to the student zone tabClick on the Results subtab from the dropdown menu.Choose the Hall Ticket for Term End ExaminationsStudents must enter the enrollment number and click on the desired course from the drop-down menu.As soon as students click on submit, the IGNOU Hall Ticket 2024will appear. Students must print it to appear for their exams.

IGNOU MA Political Science: Fees 2025, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Fees (2025 - 2026)	Year 1 (in INR)	Year 2 (in INR)
Tuition Fees	7700	7700
Yearly Fees	7700	7700

Fees	Year 1 (in INR)	Year 2 (in INR)
Tuition Fees	7700	7700
Yearly Fees	7700	7700

Year (2025 - 2026)	1	2
Tuition fees	₹7700	₹7700
Yearly Fees	₹7,700	₹7,700

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is praised for its supportive and helpful faculty, maintaining a student-to-faculty ratio of about 50:1. Faculty members assist with assignments, offer self-prepared notes, and resolve student issues promptly. Exams occur biannually in January and June, with around 75% of students passing, supported by a fair marking scheme. The student population is evenly divided between males and females. IGNOU offers programs and certificates that boost career prospects.

The fee structure for master's programs varies with course selection and study material preference. Annual fees typically range from 6,000 to 8,200 INR, with the total cost for a two-year program around 16,000 INR or more. Additional costs include examination fees (200 INR per subject) and registration fees. Opting for hardcopy study materials increases fees, while softcopy options lower them to about 7,400 INR per year. IGNOU does not offer external scholarships but provides internal ones for financially disadvantaged students.

The fee structure is affordable, with no significant yearly increases, and the Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme offers around 10,000 INR for eligible students.

By Collegedunia’s Personal AI

Events	Dates
Date for Submission of Application for July Session 2025 [MA]	May 15, 2025 - Jun 30, 2025
Last Date for Submission of Application for January 2025 Admission Cycle [MA]	Mar 31, 2025

Year	1	2
Tuition fees	₹7700	₹7700
Yearly Fees	₹7,700	₹7,700

Year	1	2
Tuition fees	₹7700	₹7700
Yearly Fees	₹7,700	₹7,700

Why To Join IGNOU - Reviews & Rating

4.2

(13 Verified Reviews)

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4(25%)

3(8%)

2(24%)

1(4%)

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4.1

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4.0

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Umang Rathour

3.8Helpful

MA, Political Science

Reviewed on Mar 13, 2025(Enrolled 2023)

It's good but little bit disappointed

Fees and Financial Aid:

My course fees was 7000/- yearly and i don't have any idea if there is any scolership facility or not. Every exam time it charges extra for the exam fees, right now this university is not increasing yrealy fees, and every year we have to pay

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Numeer

3.2Helpful

Reviewed on Feb 6, 2025(Enrolled 2023)

IGNOU-My honest opinion.

Likes

This university offers great flexibility for the students choose when they can appear for the exam and also is great for those who are working.
The course curriculum designed by IGNOU is great and is crafted as per the needs of the students were desires of appearing for further studies and examinations it is

The year wise fees i paid is around ?8000/-. It includes all other charges like tuition fees caution fees registration fees admission fees development fees lab fees and other compulsory charges during the course completion other batsmates had to pay different fees according to the course they had chosen the scholarship we get is prime ministers scholarship scheme and it is around 10000. Overall the course is greatly affordable for everyone.

College Ninja

Reviewed on Jan 21, 2025(Enrolled 2024)

Reviews of Indira Gandhi National open University

It's good for those who want to do job or prepare for government examination along with studies.
The good thing is you don't have to attend the regular classes because it is a distance education.

Dislikes

It doesn't so cheap as it was considered.

The fees structure of masters in political science at IGNOU is around 8200 including hardcopy of study materials. But if you choose soft copy of study materials then the fees will reduce around 7400. It is upon you which you want to choose. The fees structure will very on subjects you choose for masters. IGNOU does not provide any external scholarship scheme because it is a distance education. But IGNOU itself provide various scholarships for weaker section of the society.

AVANTIKA YADAV

2.3Helpful

Reviewed on Jan 15, 2025(Enrolled 2023)

Ignou just for degree

7700 for masters with books and it's good for open college or distance learning Ignou fee without books are 6545 per year. Anf you have to pay for year there are 3 year validity you can select January or July batch

Shivam kuamr

3.6Helpful

Reviewed on Jan 13, 2025(Enrolled 2024)

Ignou the saviour

I am a student of Masters in Political science . I took admission in IGNOU 2024 my session is 24-26 .i charged 8200 per yeae including books of my course.. I belong to general category thats why i don't get any scholarship or subsidy in my fees.

Fakir Sameer usman

5.0

Reviewed on Dec 24, 2024(Enrolled 2022)

Best life at IGNOU

1st year feers is about 6400 2nd year fees about 7000 Exam fees are different from the fees it is quite affordable for master in arts from top open university and fees structure is uniform and there is no other fees taken

Simran kaur

Reviewed on Dec 23, 2024(Enrolled 2024)

I experienced the best college life in Mata Sundri College. Right now I am pursuing Masters from IGNOU.

I paid my IGNOU fees of 6000 rupees per year. Right now I am in first year. I didn't get any scholarships and financial aid that are available to students because, My father is in CISF. But I am trying to pay my next year fee by myself.

Kaushiki patel

4.5

Reviewed on Oct 18, 2024(Enrolled 2022)

Indira Gandhi national open University

Can make a choice regarding study centre and examination centre and when one wish to appear in the exams without wasting an year
Books are available for free on website for all the courses

Ignou first year I paid 75000 inr admission fee along with a registeration fee of 300 inr examination fee is 200 per paper inr I paid 8000 admission fee in 2 nd year I have to pay 250 for my original degree during convocation

Shivani Dahiya Dahiya

4.5Helpful

Reviewed on Oct 17, 2024(Enrolled 2022)

Love to do

The assignment structure then we score good marks.
We only go for giving exams. By this we can manage our job and studys both.

The exams fee paid for every time. That will be not affordable.
Sometimes they don't give the marks of assignment.

The detailed fee structure is 8000 per year. I paid 2 times. Apart from that we also have to pay exam fee for rs. 200 as per subject. I paid without books, if i take book then i will approx 10,000 .

Aman Shaw

4.0Helpful

Reviewed on Oct 15, 2024(Enrolled 2024)

Ignou good for upsc aspirants

It's pretty affordable to be honest we have to pay just 8999 for enrollment in IGNOU masters programme and then we get High quality notes from IGNOU and also we have to pay 200 per paper for exam form and then same price for re-registration