IGNOU BCA: Admission 2026, Fees, Eligibility, Syllabus, Last Date & How to Apply

IGNOU BCA is a flexible and affordable 3-year undergraduate degree and is extendable up to 6 years. Conducted fully through Online/Distance mode, it’s ideal for working professionals, homemakers, and learners across India. The minimum eligibility to apply for BCA at IGNOU is a 10+2 qualification and the total course fee is Rs. 46,200. With a UGC-recognized degree, flexible timelines, and an extensive alumni base, IGNOU BCA is a popular choice among students aiming for careers across IT, software development, and computer applications. 

IGNOU BCA 2026: Key Highlights

A quick overview of BCA at IGNOU is given below.

IGNOU BCA Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for admission to the IGNOU BCA program, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:

• Educational Qualification: 10+2 or its equivalent from a recognized board.
• Minimum Marks Required: No specific minimum percentage required.
• Age Limit: No age limit.
• Entrance Exam: No entrance test required.
• Other Requirements: None.

IGNOU BCA Admission 2026

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) offers direct admission to the BCA program; you are not required to appear for any entrance examination.

Admission to BCA at IGNOU takes place twice a year, in January and July sessions. The BCA admission process at IGNOU is very straightforward—you’ll apply through the Samarth Portal ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in, upload your documents, and pay the registration fee online. Past applicants suggest keeping scanned copies of your ID, marksheets, and a passport-size photo ready to avoid delays. Unlike many universities, IGNOU allows you to complete the entire process online, without the need to visit the campus.

How To Apply for IGNOU BCA Online

Admission to BCA at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is done entirely online through the IGNOU Online Admission System. Follow the step-by-step process below to successfully submit your application.

Step 1: Review Course Details

• Go to the “Available Programmes” section on the IGNOU admission portal.
• Select BCA and check:
  • Eligibility criteria
  • Programme fees
  • Duration
  • Study mode (distance)
• Download the IGNOU Common Prospectus and read the university rules carefully.

Step 2: Register on the IGNOU Admission Portal

• Click “New Registration” in the applicant login area.
• Fill in the required personal details:
  • Username: 8–16 characters
  • Password: Alphanumeric, 8–16 characters
• Use your own active email address and mobile number.
• Click “Submit” — your username and password will be sent via SMS and email.
• Already registered? Click “Login” to continue.

Step 3: Upload the Required Documents

Keep scanned copies of the following documents ready (from originals only):

Step 4: Fill and Submit the Online Application Form

• Log in with your registered credentials.
• Fill in your personal, educational, and communication details accurately.
• Upload the scanned documents in the prescribed format and size.
• Review all details carefully before final submission.
• Download/print the application form for future reference.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

The registration/programme fee can be paid online through:

• Credit Card (Master/Visa)
• Debit Card (Master/Visa/RuPay)
• Net Banking

Important Fee & Refund Rules

• Registration fee is non-refundable.
• Before admission confirmation: full programme fee refundable.
• After confirmation: 15% of the programme fee (max ₹2,000) will be deducted.
• No refund after 60 days from the closing date of admissions.
• Students with fee exemption will have refund rules applied by IGNOU policy.

Note: A DEB ID is mandatory for applying. Please create your DEB ID before starting the application process.

Tip from past students: Apply early in the cycle (July–August) to avoid last-minute portal slowdowns. IGNOU’s online system works well on desktop but can be slow on mobile devices. Once your documents are verified, you’ll receive an email confirmation along with your student ID.

IGNOU BCA Admission Dates 2026

Important dates for IGNOU BCA admission 2026 are given below.

Check: IGNOU Admissions 2026

Fees for IGNOU BCA in 2026

The annual fees to study BCA from IGNOU is INR 7,700 per semester, and the total fees range between INR 46,200 for the entire duration of the program. This is significantly lower than the traditional BCA program offered by universities like Amity University or Lovely Professional University, making it a popular choice for distance learners across India. IGNOU BCA fee structure 2026 is as follows:

Check: IGNOU Courses & Fees

IGNOU BCA Syllabus

The syllabus for BCA covers core and elective subjects to provide comprehensive knowledge in computer applications, programming, and IT fundamentals. The program is structured to equip students with skills in software development, database management, and web technologies.

• Year/Semester-Wise Subjects:
  • Semester 1: Problem Solving and Programming, Computer Organization and Assembly Language Programming, Discrete Mathematics, Communication Skills, Laboratory Course (C Language Programming).
  • Semester 2: Data and File Structures, Operating System Concepts and Networking Management, Object-Oriented Programming using C++, Introduction to Database Management Systems, Laboratory Course (C++ and DBMS).
  • Semester 3: Systems Analysis and Design, Programming in Java, Computer Networks, Business Organization, Laboratory Course (Java Programming).
  • Semester 4: Software Engineering, Web Programming, Data Communication and Computer Networks, Probability and Statistics, Laboratory Course (Web Programming).
  • Semester 5: Artificial Intelligence, Mobile Computing, Information Security, Elective Course (choose one), Laboratory Course (AI and Mobile Computing).
  • Semester 6: Cloud Computing, Project Work, Elective Course (choose one), Laboratory Course (Cloud Computing).

IGNOU BCA Career Opportunities

What are the career opportunities after completing BCA from IGNOU?

Completing a BCA from IGNOU opens up numerous opportunities in the IT industry, including roles in software development, web designing, and database management. Graduates can work in diverse sectors such as IT companies, banking, education, and government organizations. The program’s flexibility and UGC recognition make it a valuable credential for career advancement.

• Highlights:
  • Career Options: Software Developer, Web Developer, Database Administrator, System Analyst, IT Support Specialist.
  • Average Salary: INR 3–6 LPA (entry-level); experienced professionals can earn INR 8–15 LPA.
  • Top Recruiters: TCS, Infosys, Wipro, HCL, Accenture, IBM, and government organizations like NIC.
  • Further Studies: Pursue MCA, MBA, or certifications like AWS, Cisco, or Full Stack Development for enhanced career prospects.