IGNOU Passing Criteria 2026 – Minimum Marks
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is one of India’s largest open universities, offering a wide range of programs from certificate courses to doctoral programs through its Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and online modes. Every year, thousands of students enroll in IGNOU programs to pursue undergraduate (UG), postgraduate (PG), diploma, and certificate courses. A critical aspect of succeeding in these programs is understanding the passing criteria, which determines whether a student is eligible to pass a course and appear for the term-end examination (TEE).
In this article, we provide a complete guide on IGNOU passing criteria 2026, including minimum marks required, grade requirements, assignment weightage, and other eligibility conditions for exams. This guide will help IGNOU students plan their studies effectively and ensure exam eligibility.
Overview of IGNOU Evaluation System
IGNOU evaluates students based on a combination of assignments and term-end examinations. The assessment system ensures that students not only have theoretical knowledge but also the ability to apply it. The evaluation is split into two components:
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Assignments (Continuous Assessment):
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Assignments carry 30% weightage of the total marks for a course.
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Students must submit assignments before the submission deadline to be eligible for the TEE.
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Assignments test the understanding of concepts and problem-solving skills.
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Term-End Examination (TEE):
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The TEE carries 70% weightage of the total marks.
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The examination is conducted at designated IGNOU examination centers.
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The TEE evaluates the theoretical knowledge gained over the course duration.
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The total score for a course is calculated by combining marks from assignments and the TEE. Understanding this breakdown is crucial for students to pass successfully.
Minimum Marks Required to Pass IGNOU 2026
To pass any course at IGNOU, students must achieve minimum marks in both assignments and term-end exams. The standard passing criteria are as follows:
| Component | Weightage | Minimum Marks Required |
|---|---|---|
| Assignments | 30% | 35% (i.e., at least 11 marks out of 30) |
| Term-End Examination (TEE) | 70% | 35% (i.e., at least 24.5 marks out of 70) |
| Overall Total | 100% | 35% (i.e., at least 35 marks out of 100) |
Key Points:
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Even if a student scores high in TEE but fails to submit assignments, they cannot appear for TEE.
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Students must achieve at least 35% marks in each component separately to qualify.
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If the student scores below 35% in assignments, they must resubmit assignments in the next session to appear for TEE.
Grade System at IGNOU 2026
IGNOU uses a letter grade system to indicate student performance. After combining assignment and TEE marks, the final grade is awarded based on the following scale:
| Percentage Marks | Grade | Grade Point |
|---|---|---|
| 80% – 100% | A+ | 5.0 |
| 60% – 79% | A | 4.0 |
| 50% – 59% | B | 3.0 |
| 35% – 49% | C | 2.0 |
| Below 35% | F | 0.0 |
Understanding Grades:
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A+ and A grades reflect excellent performance and strong understanding of the subject.
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B and C grades are considered satisfactory and indicate a pass.
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F grade indicates failure, requiring the student to reappear for TEE or resubmit assignments.
Assignment Weightage and Passing Requirement
Assignments play a crucial role in determining the final grade. Key points about IGNOU assignments:
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Students must complete all required assignments for the course.
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Each assignment contributes to the 30% weightage of the total marks.
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Students who fail to submit assignments on time are ineligible for TEE.
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Assignments are evaluated based on content, presentation, and accuracy.
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Typical minimum marks for passing an assignment are 35% of total assignment marks.
Submission Guidelines:
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Online Submission: Students can upload scanned copies of their assignments through the official IGNOU portal.
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Offline Submission: Students can submit assignments at the nearest IGNOU Study or Regional Centre.
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Always attach the assignment front page with enrollment number, program, course code, and signature.
Term-End Examination Eligibility
To appear for IGNOU Term-End Exams, students must satisfy the following:
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Assignment Submission: Completion of all required assignments with minimum passing marks.
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Re-Registration: If a student has missed a previous semester, re-registration is mandatory.
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Fee Payment: Examination fees for each course must be paid before the deadline.
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Enrollment Validity: Students must be enrolled for the specific course and academic session.
Students failing to meet these requirements are deemed ineligible to appear for TEE, regardless of their study progress.
Practical and Project Courses
Certain programs at IGNOU, like BSc, MCA, MBA, BEd, and MCom, have practical, project, or fieldwork components. The passing criteria for these courses are slightly different:
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Practical/Project Weightage: Usually 20–30% of total marks.
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Students must achieve minimum 35% in practical/project component.
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Failure in practicals requires resubmission or re-evaluation before final grade calculation.
PhD and Research Programs Passing Criteria
For PhD programs or research-based courses, passing criteria focus on:
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Proposal Approval: Research proposal must be accepted by the university.
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Comprehensive Viva-Voce: Students must clear the viva for theoretical knowledge.
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Dissertation Evaluation: Minimum passing marks for dissertation evaluation are usually 50%.
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Final Degree Award: Based on successful completion of coursework, research, and viva.
Consequences of Failing to Meet Passing Criteria
Failing to meet IGNOU passing criteria has the following consequences:
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F Grade: Student fails the course.
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Re-Appearance: Must reappear in TEE or resubmit assignments in the next session.
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Maximum Duration: IGNOU allows students to complete UG courses in 6 years and PG courses in 4 years. Failure to pass within this duration may require re-admission.
Tips to Clear IGNOU Courses Successfully
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Start Assignments Early: Begin working on assignments as soon as they are released.
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Refer to Study Material: Use official IGNOU study material for all answers.
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Time Management: Allocate time for both assignments and exam preparation.
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Understand Marking Scheme: Focus on key topics that carry high marks.
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Check Assignment Status: Always verify assignment submission status through the official portal.
IGNOU Passing Criteria FAQs
Q1. What is the minimum passing mark for IGNOU?
A: Students must score at least 35% marks in both assignments and TEE separately.
Q2. Can I appear for TEE without submitting assignments?
A: No, submission of assignments with passing marks is mandatory for TEE eligibility.
Q3. How much weightage do assignments carry?
A: Assignments carry 30% of total course marks, while TEE carries 70%.
Q4. Are practicals included in passing criteria?
A: Yes, practicals/projects usually carry 20–30% weightage and require minimum 35% marks.
Q5. What if I fail in a course?
A: You can reappear in the TEE or resubmit assignments in the next session.
Q6. Is the IGNOU grading system valid for government jobs?
A: Yes, IGNOU grades and degrees are recognized by UGC, DEB, and employers.
Conclusion
The IGNOU passing criteria 2026 ensures students maintain academic discipline and complete assignments and exams responsibly. By understanding the minimum marks, grade requirements, assignment weightage, and eligibility conditions, students can plan their studies effectively and secure successful completion of courses.
Whether you are pursuing UG, PG, Diploma, Certificate, or research courses, knowing the passing criteria will help you avoid surprises during evaluation and ensure you are fully prepared for the Term-End Exams (TEE) 2026.
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