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

Certificate in Guidance from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is a flexible and affordable 6 months 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 Guidance is a popular choice among students aiming for careers across education, counseling, and child development.

IGNOU CIG 2026: Key Highlights

A quick overview of Certificate in Guidance at IGNOU is given below.

IGNOU CIG Eligibility Criteria 2026

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

• Educational Qualification: 10+2 or higher qualification
• Minimum Marks Required: Not specified
• Age Limit: Not applicable
• Entrance Exam (if any): Not required
• Other Requirements: None

IGNOU CIG Admission 2026

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

Admission to Certificate in Guidance at IGNOU takes place twice a year, in January and July sessions. Certificate in Guidance 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 CIG Online 2026

Admission to Certificate in Guidance 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 Guidance 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 ₹ 2,300) 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.

Fees for IGNOU CIG in 2026

The annual fees to study Certificate in Guidance from IGNOU is INR 2,300, and the total fees range between INR 2,300 for the entire duration of the program. This is significantly lower than the traditional Certificate in Guidance program offered by similar institutions like University of Delhi, making it a popular choice for distance learners across India. IGNOU Certificate in Guidance fee structure 2026 is as follows:

Check : IGNOU Course & Fee

IGNOU CIG Syllabus

The syllabus for Certificate in Guidance focuses on foundational concepts in guidance, child development, learning processes, and practical application, designed to enhance skills for educational support roles.

• Emphasizes understanding child psychology and guidance techniques.
• Includes practical training to apply theoretical knowledge.
• Offered in both English and Hindi for wider accessibility.

IGNOU CIG Career Opportunities

What career opportunities are available after completing Certificate in Guidance from IGNOU?

Completing the Certificate in Guidance from IGNOU provides opportunities in education and counseling fields, including roles as school counselors, educational consultants, or child development specialists. The program is ideal for teachers and social workers seeking to enhance their skills, with potential employment in schools, NGOs, and educational institutions. Average salaries range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4 LPA, with the highest reaching up to INR 6 LPA with experience.

• Career options: School Counselor, Educational Consultant, Child Development Specialist
• Average salary: INR 2.5 LPA - 4 LPA
• Highest salary: Up to INR 6 LPA
• Recruiters: Schools, NGOs, Educational Institutions

FAQs about CIG From IGNOU

1. What is the eligibility for the Certificate in Guidance at IGNOU?
   Candidates need a 10+2 or higher qualification with no specific minimum marks or age limit.
2. How much is the fee for the IGNOU Certificate in Guidance?
   The total fee is INR 2,300, including a one-time registration fee of INR 300.
3. What is the duration of the Certificate in Guidance course?
   The course duration is 6 months, extendable up to 2 years.
4. How can I apply for IGNOU Certificate in Guidance?
   Apply online via the IGNOU Samarth portal at https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in.
5. Are there any entrance exams for IGNOU Certificate in Guidance?
   No, admission is merit-based without an entrance exam.
6. What jobs can I get after completing IGNOU Certificate in Guidance?
   Graduates can work as school counselors, educational consultants, or child development specialists.