The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has announced an important update regarding admissions for the January 2025 session. Many students have been waiting for an extension, and there is good news as well as a possible concern regarding the extension of certain programs.
1. Good News: Admission Deadline Extended
IGNOU has officially extended the last date for admissions beyond 28th February 2025. According to sources from the IGNOU headquarters, the new deadline for most courses will be 15th March 2025.
This extension provides an additional opportunity for students who have not yet applied for their desired programs.
2. Possible Concern: Semester & Certificate Courses Deadline
While annual-based programs like BA, BSc, MA, MCom, and diploma courses will have their deadlines extended, semester-based and certificate courses may not be extended further.

Programs Likely to Continue Until 15th March 2025:
- Bachelor’s Degree Programs: BA, BSc, BCom, BSW, etc.
- Master’s Degree Programs: MA, MSc, MCom, etc.
- Diploma & PG Diploma Programs
Programs That May Close on 28th February 2025:
- Semester-Based Programs: MBA, MCom, MSc, BCA, MCA
- Certificate Courses
Reason for Limited Extension on Semester & Certificate Courses:
- These programs have exams scheduled for June 2025.
- Extending the admission deadline could disrupt the academic schedule.
Although there is a slight possibility that IGNOU may extend semester and certificate course deadlines in the future, students are strongly advised to apply before 28th February to avoid missing out.
3. Key Takeaways for Students
✅ The last date for most courses is extended till 15th March 2025.
❌ Semester-based and certificate courses may close by 28th February.
📅 If you are applying for a certificate or semester-based course, apply immediately to secure your admission.
💻 Admissions are open online on the IGNOU official website: www.ignou.ac.in
4. What Should Students Do?
- If you plan to enroll in an annual-based course, you still have time until 15th March 2025.
- If you are interested in a semester-based or certificate course, apply immediately before 28th February.
- Keep checking official IGNOU updates for any further changes.
Conclusion
The extension of IGNOU admissions is a great relief for many students. However, semester-based and certificate courses are at risk of closing soon. Students are advised to apply as early as possible to avoid last-minute issues.
For the latest updates, stay connected with official IGNOU notifications.