The IGNOU Scholarship 2026 is an important financial support offered by the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) for the students Undergraduate, Postgraduate, M.Phil, and PhD programs. Students who are from weaker financial background and having annual income less then 3 lakhs. Only students from SC, ST, PwD, transgender , jail inmates categories can apply. This post contains information regarding IGNOU Scholarship 2026 and related information which includes Who Can Apply for IGNOU Scholarship 2026 Types of IGNOU Scholarships 2026 How to Apply for IGNOU Scholarship 2026 Documents Needed for IGNOU Scholarship 2026 IGNOU Scholarship 2026 Amount for M.Phil and PhD Important Dates and Links
Who Can Apply for IGNOU Scholarship 2026?
The eligibility criteria set by IGNOU for IGNOU Scholarship 2026 are listed below applicants who want to apply for the post first need to be eligible for the post:
- The applicant must be an Indian citizen.
- Should be enrolled in an IGNOU UG, PG, M.Phil, or PhD program.
- Must belong to one of the following categories: SC, ST, PwD, transgender, jail inmate, or economically weaker section.
- Should have a consistent academic performance in previous examinations.
- Annual family income must be below ₹3,00,000.
- Applicants must not be availing any other scholarship at the same time.
Types of IGNOU Scholarships 2026
There are several types of IGNOU Scholarships 2026 to support the financial weaker students. The types of IGNOU Scholarships 2026 are:
| Scholarship Type | Eligible Groups | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| IGNOU Special Scholarships | Women, minorities, PwD students | Partial fee waiver |
| IGNOU Merit Scholarship | Students with high previous academic scores | Merit-based funding |
| National Fellowship for SC/ST | SC/ST learners in UG/PG programs | Covers tuition & academic expenses |
| National Fellowship for OBC | OBC students pursuing higher studies | Academic cost assistance |
| National Fellowship for PwD | Students with disabilities | Fee waiver & financial aid |
| National Fellowship for Women | Female candidates in IGNOU programs | Fee concession & stipend |
How to Apply for IGNOU Scholarship 2026 (Offline Process)
To apply for the IGNOU Scholarship 2026 students must follow the given below steps carefully. The scholarship application is accepted only through offline mode:
Step 1: Visit the official IGNOU website : www.ignou.ac.in or contact your nearest Regional Centre.
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Step 2: Collect the scholarship application form from your State Directorate of Social Welfare or Social Welfare Office and fill all the required details as asked accurately like personal academic and communication details.
Step 3: Attach all required documents including academic marksheets, income proof, caste certificate, etc. Make sure each document is valid, clear, and attested.
Step 4: Get the completed application verified and signed by the Regional Director of your IGNOU Regional Centre.
Step 5: Submit the final, verified form to your State Social Welfare Office.
Documents Needed for IGNOU Scholarship 2026
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Proof of Date of Birth | Age verification |
| Aadhar Card | Official identity proof |
| Address Proof | Residential verification |
| Class 10 & 12 Marksheet | Educational background check |
| Graduation Certificate | For PG/M.Phil/PhD eligibility |
| Admission Offer Letter | Confirmation of IGNOU enrollment |
| Income Certificate | To verify financial status |
| Caste Certificate | For SC/ST/OBC category claims |
| Disability Certificate | Required for PwD applicants |
| Completed Application Form | Final submission requirement |
IGNOU Scholarship 2026 Amount for M.Phil and PhD
| Course | Eligibility Requirement | Monthly Amount |
|---|---|---|
| M.Phil | Full-time study; Age below 35; SC/ST/PwD candidates | ₹5,000 |
| PhD | Full-time study; Age below 35; SC/ST/PwD candidates | ₹8,000 |
Important Dates for IGNOU Scholarship 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Notification Release | December 2025 |
| Form Availability | After official notification |
| Verification & Approval | Same academic session |
Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Website | www.ignou.ac.in |
| Join WhatsApp | Click Here |
| Join Telegram | Click Here |
