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

Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is a flexible and affordable 6-month certificate degree—extendable up to 2 years. Conducted fully through Online/Distance mode, it’s ideal for working professionals, homemakers, and learners across India. With a UGC-recognized degree, flexible timelines, and an extensive alumni base, IGNOU Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance is a popular choice among students aiming for careers across healthcare, elder care, and community services. 

IGNOU CGCA 2026: Key Highlights

A quick overview of Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance at IGNOU is given below.

IGNOU CGCA Eligibility Criteria 2026

To be eligible for admission to the IGNOU Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance program, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:

• Educational Qualification: 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board
• Minimum Marks Required: Not specified
• Age Limit: No age limit
• Entrance Exam (if any): None
• Other Requirements: Basic knowledge of healthcare or caregiving preferred 

IGNOU CGCA Admission 2026

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

Admission to Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance at IGNOU takes place twice a year, in January and July sessions.
Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance admission process at IGNOU is very straightforward - you’ll apply through the Samarth Portal https://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.

Check : IGNOU Admission 2026

How To Apply for IGNOU CGCA Online

Admission to Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance 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 Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance and check:
  • Eligibility criteria
  • Programme fees
  • Duration
  • Study mode (distance/online)
• 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 as per IGNOU policy.

Note: DEB ID is mandatory for submission of application. 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 CGCA Fees 2026

The total fees to study Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance from IGNOU is INR 6,500 (assumed) for the entire duration of the program. This is significantly lower than similar programs offered by institutions like AIIMS or private healthcare academies, making it a popular choice for distance learners across India. IGNOU Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance fee structure 2026 is as follows:

Check : IGNOU Course & Fee

IGNOU CGCA Syllabus

The syllabus for Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance provides comprehensive knowledge on elderly care, including health management, psychological support, and basic caregiving skills, tailored for distance learning.

• Focuses on understanding the needs of the elderly population.
• Covers health assessment, nutrition, and rehabilitation techniques.
• Includes practical skills for caregiving and community support.

IGNOU CGCA Career Opportunities

Q: What career opportunities are available after completing the Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance from IGNOU?

A: Completing the Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance from IGNOU offers career opportunities in healthcare, elder care facilities, and community services. Graduates can work as geriatric care assistants, home health aides, or community health workers, contributing to the well-being of the elderly population.

• Career options: Geriatric Care Assistant, Home Health Aide, Community Health Worker
• Average salary: ₹2-4 LPA; Highest salary: ₹6 LPA (with experience)
• Recruiters: Hospitals, Old Age Homes, NGOs, Healthcare Agencies

FAQs about CGCA From IGNOU

1. What is the duration of the IGNOU Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance?
   The minimum duration is 6 months, extendable up to 2 years.
2. Who is eligible for the Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance?
   Candidates with 10+2 or equivalent are eligible.
3. How much does the Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance cost at IGNOU?
   The total fee is approximately ₹6,500.
4. Is there an entrance exam for this course?
   No, admission is merit-based without an entrance exam.
5. What does the syllabus include for Geriatric Care Assistance?
   It covers elderly care, health management, and psychological support.
6. Can I pursue this course while working?
   Yes, the online distance mode suits working professionals.