IGNOU BSc Fees 2026 – Semester
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is one of the largest open universities in the world, offering quality education through the open and distance learning (ODL) mode. The university provides flexible learning options to students who wish to pursue higher education while managing personal and professional commitments. Among its many undergraduate offerings, the Bachelor of Science (BSc) program is one of the most sought-after courses in 2026. This article provides a complete guide on IGNOU BSc fees, semester-wise tuition, total cost, admission process, eligibility, course structure, and career prospects for students seeking admission in 2026.
Overview of IGNOU BSc Program
The BSc program at IGNOU is a three-year undergraduate degree designed for students who have completed their 12th standard (10+2) in the Science stream. The program emphasizes practical and theoretical knowledge across various disciplines of science, including Botany, Zoology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Geology.
Key Highlights of IGNOU BSc 2026
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Bachelor of Science (BSc) |
| Program Duration | 3 years (minimum), up to 6 years maximum |
| Eligibility | 10+2 with Science subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics) |
| Medium of Instruction | English & Hindi |
| Course Mode | Open and Distance Learning (ODL) |
| Session | January & July 2026 |
| Assignment Weightage | 30% of final grade |
| Term-End Exam Weightage | 70% of final grade |
| Contact Classes | Available at designated study centers |
| University Recognition | UGC, NAAC, DEB approved |
IGNOU BSc Specializations 2026
Students enrolling in the BSc program can select a general BSc or choose specializations depending on their interests and career goals. The main specializations offered in 2026 include:
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BSc Zoology
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BSc Botany
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BSc Physics
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BSc Mathematics
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BSc Chemistry
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BSc Geology
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BSc Physics-Mathematics-Geology
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BSc Chemistry-Geology-Botany
These specializations allow students to gain in-depth knowledge in their chosen fields, preparing them for higher education or professional opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria for IGNOU BSc Admission 2026
To apply for IGNOU BSc 2026, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:
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Educational Qualification: Completion of 10+2 from a recognized board with Science subjects (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Mathematics).
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Minimum Marks: Students are generally expected to have 45-50% marks in their 12th-grade exams. Relaxations are provided for SC/ST/OBC categories as per government norms.
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Age Limit: There is no age restriction for IGNOU BSc admission, making it accessible for students of all ages.
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Other Requirements: Applicants must provide valid identity proof, 10th & 12th mark sheets, passport-size photographs, and category certificate (if applicable).
IGNOU BSc Admission Process 2026
Admission to IGNOU BSc is conducted twice a year in January and July sessions. The process is primarily online through the IGNOU Samarth portal but offline applications are also accepted at regional centers.
Online Admission Steps
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Visit ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in and create a user account.
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Scan and prepare all necessary documents in the specified format.
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Fill out the online application form with accurate personal and academic details.
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Pay the registration fee of Rs. 300 and program fee through available online modes.
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Upload scanned copies of required documents.
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Review the form and submit it.
Offline Admission Steps
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Visit the nearest IGNOU Regional Center.
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Request the BSc admission form at the Student Service Cell.
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Fill in personal and academic details, and choose the desired specialization.
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Attach required documents and pay the application fee.
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Submit the completed form at the center.
Important Dates
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Last date for January 2026 session: 31 January 2026
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Re-registration deadline: 31 January 2026
IGNOU BSc Fees 2026 – Tuition & Total Cost
The fees for IGNOU BSc 2026 are affordable, making it accessible for students from diverse economic backgrounds. The cost varies slightly depending on the specialization chosen.
Fee Structure
| Component | Fee Details |
|---|---|
| Annual Tuition Fee | Rs. 6,000 – Rs. 14,500 per year |
| Total Fee (3 years) | Rs. 18,000 – Rs. 43,500 |
| Registration Fee | Rs. 300 (one-time) |
| Exam Fee | Rs. 200 (theory) & Rs. 300 (practical) per course |
| University Development Fee | Rs. 300 |
| Study Material | Included in the tuition fee |
| SC/ST Concessions | Available as per government norms |
The program fee includes study materials, practical sessions, and access to online resources. Students can also avail themselves of scholarships or fee concessions if eligible.
IGNOU BSc Assignments & Contact Classes
Assignments form a critical component of the BSc curriculum, accounting for 30% of the final grade.
Assignment Guidelines
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Students must submit assignments for each course at the designated study centers or online via IGNOU portals.
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Assignments are assessed based on concept clarity, presentation, and originality.
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Minimum passing marks: 35% per assignment.
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Assignments also serve as a continuous assessment tool, helping students prepare for Term-End Exams (TEE).
Contact Classes
IGNOU organizes contact classes to facilitate doubt clarification and practical understanding.
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Conducted at regional study centers.
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Students can interact with subject experts.
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Schedule available on the regional center website.
IGNOU BSc Term-End Examination
The BSc evaluation system combines continuous assessment through assignments (30%) and the Term-End Examination (TEE) (70%).
Exam Form Submission
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Students must submit the exam form at their regional center before deadlines.
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The form can be submitted offline using a ballpoint pen, and the acknowledgment receipt should be retained.
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Practical exams are also conducted for applicable subjects.
Career Opportunities After IGNOU BSc
IGNOU BSc graduates can explore multiple career paths across research, industry, and education sectors. Some potential roles include:
| Career Path | Skills Required | Average Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Research Assistant | Lab management, analytical thinking, data analysis | 3 – 5 LPA |
| Quality Control Analyst | Product testing, documentation, technical knowledge | 4 – 6 LPA |
| Environmental Scientist | Fieldwork, data analysis, environmental regulations | 5 – 8 LPA |
| Data Analyst | Statistical analysis, programming, visualization | 4 – 7 LPA |
| Technical Writer | Writing skills, technical knowledge, communication | 3.5 – 6 LPA |
IGNOU BSc also serves as a foundation for higher studies such as MSc, MPhil, and PhD programs in India and abroad.
IGNOU BSc Degree & Recognition
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Validity: IGNOU BSc is recognized by UGC, DEB, and NAAC, making it valid for higher studies and employment.
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Digital Certificates: Graduates can download their BSc degree certificates online via the IGNOU portal.
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International Recognition: Degrees from IGNOU are accepted in several foreign universities with equivalent credit assessment.
FAQs – IGNOU BSc 2026
Q1: Is IGNOU BSc degree valid for higher studies?
Yes, it is recognized for MSc, MPhil, and PhD programs in India and abroad.
Q2: Can I complete IGNOU BSc in less than 3 years?
No, the minimum duration is 3 years, but students can extend it up to 6 years.
Q3: What are the BSc specializations available at IGNOU?
Botany, Zoology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Geology, and combinations like Physics-Mathematics-Geology.
Q4: What is the total fee for IGNOU BSc 2026?
Total fees range from Rs. 18,000 to Rs. 43,500 depending on specialization.
Q5: How many semesters are there in IGNOU BSc?
There are 6 semesters over 3 years.
Q6: When is the last date for IGNOU BSc admission?
For the January 2026 session, the last date is 31 January 2026.
Q7: Can SC/ST students get fee concessions?
Yes, eligible students can avail of government scholarships and fee waivers.
Conclusion
The IGNOU BSc program 2026 is an affordable, flexible, and recognized undergraduate degree that provides students the opportunity to pursue higher education while balancing work or other commitments. With low tuition fees, flexible duration, multiple specializations, and practical-oriented learning, the BSc at IGNOU remains a popular choice among students in India.
The total cost of the program, including registration, tuition, and exam fees, ranges from Rs. 18,000 to Rs. 45,000, making it accessible to a wide range of learners. With a recognized degree, well-structured assignments, contact classes, and career opportunities, students can confidently pursue their academic and professional goals through IGNOU.