IGNOU Degree Apply: Every year, thousands of students complete their academic programmes from the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). After successfully completing all required coursework, assignments, examinations, and project components, students become eligible to receive their official degree certificate from the university. To obtain this degree or certificate, they must apply for it through the official IGNOU Convocation portal.
For 2026, IGNOU is organizing the 39th Convocation, and all students who completed their programmes during the December 2024 and June 2025 Term-End Examinations are eligible to apply for their degree. It is crucial for students to submit their degree application on time to receive their certificate at the convocation or through post.
IGNOU has provided an online portal where students can easily apply for the original degree. Below is the official link:
Apply for IGNOU Degree (Convocation Portal): https://onlineservices.ignou.ac.in/convocation/

This article provides a complete guide on how to apply for IGNOU degree, eligibility criteria, fee structure, important documents, steps to apply, status check, FAQs, and other important details. This guide is written in simple language to help every IGNOU student understand the process clearly.
Overview of IGNOU Convocation and Degree Application
The Convocation is an official ceremony conducted by IGNOU where eligible students are awarded:
- Degree
- Diploma
- Certificate
- Postgraduate certificate
- Postgraduate diploma
The Convocation is held once every year. Students can receive their degree either:
- In-person (by attending the convocation ceremony), or
- In-absentia (by post, if they do not attend the event)
IGNOU issues original certificates during the convocation for students who have completed their programmes successfully.
Important Note for 2026 Convocation
- The 39th Convocation is likely to be held in February/March 2026.
- Students who completed their programme in December 2024 TEE or June 2025 TEE are eligible to apply.
- IGNOU advises students to keep visiting the official website regularly for any updates.
Who Can Apply for IGNOU Degree in 2026?
Eligibility to apply for the degree during the 39th Convocation depends on programme completion. According to the university:
Students who completed their programme of study in:
- December 2024 Term-End Examination, and
- June 2025 Term-End Examination
are eligible to apply for their original degree at the 39th Convocation.
Eligibility includes:
1. Completion of All Academic Components
The candidate must have completed:
- All courses of the programme
- All assignments
- Term-End Examinations
- Projects, internships, dissertations (if applicable)
- Practical exams (if applicable)
2. Successful Clearance of All Subjects
All subject marks must be updated in the IGNOU Grade Card.
3. No Pending Fees or Dues
All programme-related fees must be cleared.
4. Registration Validity
The student must be enrolled within the valid registration period based on programme rules.
If all these conditions are met, the student may apply for the original degree from IGNOU.
Why Applying for IGNOU Degree Is Important?
Many students mistakenly believe they can use their mark sheets or grade cards as proof of completion. However, the original degree certificate is essential for:
- Employment applications
- Higher education admissions
- Government job requirements
- Verification for professional opportunities
- Migration and international studies
- Document verification processes
- Professional licensing and registrations
The degree certificate is a permanent, official document issued by IGNOU validating that the student has completed the programme.
Steps to Apply for IGNOU Degree (Convocation Application Process)
IGNOU has made the application process entirely online. Follow the steps below carefully:
Step 1: Visit the Convocation Portal
Go to the official IGNOU Convocation portal:
https://onlineservices.ignou.ac.in/convocation/
Step 2: Enter Enrollment Number
Enter your valid IGNOU enrollment number.
Step 3: Verify Your Programme
Select your programme from the list (BAG, BCOMG, MEG, MPA, MBA, MCA, BLIS, MLIS, BCA, etc.)
Step 4: Check Your Eligibility
The portal will display:
- Your name
- Programme
- Completion year
- Eligibility for the convocation
If you are eligible, continue to the next step.
Step 5: Pay Convocation Fees
You will need to pay the required fee for your programme.
Step 6: Select Mode – In-person or In-absentia
Choose whether you want to attend the convocation or receive your degree by post.
Step 7: Submit Application
After verifying details, submit the online application. Download the confirmation receipt.
Step 8: Track Status
You can track your convocation application status through the same portal.
IGNOU Degree Application Fees (Convocation Fees)
IGNOU charges a registration fee for the degree certificate, which varies based on programme type. Although the fee structure may change, the typical range includes:
- For Certificate/Diploma: Usually lower fees
- For Undergraduate Degrees: Moderate fees
- For Postgraduate Degrees: Slightly higher fees
- For Professional Programmes: Fees may vary
Students must check the exact fee displayed on the convocation portal during application.
Modes of Receiving IGNOU Degree
IGNOU provides two methods for delivering degree certificates:
1. In-Person
Students can attend the convocation event physically at the designated IGNOU regional centre or headquarters.
2. In-Absentia
If a student does not attend the event, the degree will be sent via:
- Registered Post
- Speed Post
This ensures every student receives their certificate.
Important Links and Information
Here is a complete table with all important IGNOU links related to degree application, convocation, and programme verification:
| Purpose | Description | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| Apply for IGNOU Degree | Submit application for original certificate | https://onlineservices.ignou.ac.in/convocation/ |
| IGNOU Homepage | General updates and notifications | https://ignou.ac.in |
| Grade Card Check | Confirm programme completion | IGNOU grade card portal |
| Assignment Status | Check submission status | IGNOU assignment status portal |
| Examination Results | Verify marks before applying | IGNOU result portal |
| Re-registration | Register for next session | IGNOU re-registration portal |
| Student Support | Regional centre contacts | IGNOU student zone |
These links help students track their academic progress and check eligibility before applying for the degree.
How to Check IGNOU Degree Application Status?
After applying for the degree, follow these steps to track the status:
- Visit the IGNOU Convocation portal.
- Enter your enrollment number.
- Select your programme.
- Click on “Check Status”.
- The portal shows whether:
- Your application is accepted
- Payment is confirmed
- Your certificate has been issued
- Your certificate has been dispatched (if in-absentia)
If your status is pending, wait for updates.
Documents Required for IGNOU Degree Application
Students may need the following documents while applying or checking eligibility:
- Enrollment number
- Registered mobile number
- Email ID
- Grade card copy
- Marksheet copy
- Identity proof (for verification during convocation)
- Payment receipt
Keep these documents ready.
Important Instructions Before Applying for IGNOU Degree
1. Ensure Programme Completion
Check your grade card before applying.
2. Check Your Name Spelling
IGNOU will print the name as per their records.
3. Keep Payment Details Safe
Download and save the payment confirmation.
4. Monitor Official Updates
The university may update convocation dates or procedures.
5. Ensure Address Accuracy
If applying in-absentia, ensure your postal address is correct.
Common Problems Students Face While Applying for Degree
1. Enrollment Number Not Found
This happens when:
- Marks are not updated
- Programme is not fully completed
- Regional centre has not finalised records
2. Payment Failure
Try again after some time or use another payment method.
3. Name Mismatch
Students must contact their regional centre to correct such issues.
4. Programme Not Showing
Your mark sheet may not yet be uploaded.
IGNOU Degree Dispatch Process
IGNOU dispatches degrees only after:
- Payment confirmation
- Final verification
- Convocation completion
For in-absentia mode, students receive the degree via post. The delivery time depends on the location of the student.
Difference Between IGNOU Provisional Certificate and Degree Certificate
Many students misunderstand the difference between these two documents.
| Certificate | Purpose | Issued |
|---|---|---|
| Provisional Certificate | Temporary proof of course completion | After result declaration |
| Original Degree Certificate | Permanent official proof | Only during Convocation |
A provisional certificate may help in job applications temporarily, but the original degree is mandatory for final verification.
What to Do If There Is an Error in the Degree Certificate?
If your degree contains any of the following errors:
- Name spelling error
- Wrong programme code
- Incorrect completion year
- Printing mistakes
Contact your Regional Centre immediately. Provide:
- A copy of your degree
- ID proof
- Mark sheet copy
- Application details
IGNOU will issue a corrected certificate if required.
FAQ about IGNOU Degree Apply
How can I apply for IGNOU degree in 2026?
Apply through the official convocation portal:
https://onlineservices.ignou.ac.in/convocation/
Who is eligible for the 39th Convocation?
Students who completed their programme in December 2024 or June 2025 TEE.
When will the 39th Convocation be held?
It is likely to be held in February/March 2026.
Can I receive my degree by post?
Yes, through the “In-absentia” option.
Do I need to attend the convocation to get my degree?
No. It is optional.
What if my degree is not delivered by post?
Contact your Regional Centre with tracking details.
Is the convocation fee refundable?
Generally, it is not refundable.
Can I apply for previous years’ degrees?
Yes, IGNOU provides a separate portal for older certificates.
Can I change my name after the degree is issued?
Yes, but it requires an official name correction procedure with documentation.
What if my marks are not updated?
Wait for grade card updates or contact the regional centre before applying.
Conclusion
Applying for your IGNOU degree is an important step in validating your academic achievement. The IGNOU Convocation process is straightforward, and all eligible students from December 2024 and June 2025 examination cycles should complete their application for the 39th Convocation 2026. By following the steps and guidelines provided in this article, students can easily apply for and receive their original degree certificate.
Make sure to check your eligibility, verify your marks, keep necessary documents ready, and regularly visit the official website for updates.
You can apply for the IGNOU degree using the official link below:
https://onlineservices.ignou.ac.in/convocation/










