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

Certificate in Performing Arts - Bharatnatyam (CPABN) 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 Learning (ODL) 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 CPABN is a popular choice among students aiming for careers across dance performance, choreography, and cultural arts. 

IGNOU CPABN 2026: Key Highlights

A quick overview of Certificate in Performing Arts - Bharatnatyam at IGNOU is given below.

IGNOU CPABN Eligibility Criteria 2026

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

• Educational Qualification: 10th pass or equivalent from a recognized board (e.g., CBSE, ICSE, State Boards).

• Minimum Marks Required: No minimum percentage required.

• Age Limit: No age limit specified.

• Entrance Exam (if any): None.

• Other Requirements: Basic knowledge or interest in Bharatnatyam or Indian classical dance is recommended but not mandatory.

IGNOU CPABN Admission 2026

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

Admission to CPABN at IGNOU takes place twice a year, in January and July sessions. The CPABN admission process at IGNOU is 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, mark sheets, 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 CPABN Online 2026

Admission to CPABN 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 Performing Arts - Bharatnatyam 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 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 CPABN Fees 2026

The total fees to study CPABN from IGNOU is INR 4,000 for the entire duration of the program. This is significantly lower than similar programs offered by institutions like Kalakshetra Foundation or private dance academies, making it a popular choice for distance learners across India. IGNOU CPABN fee structure 2026 is as follows:

Check : IGNOU Course & Fee

IGNOU CPABN Syllabus

The syllabus for CPABN, offered through the School of Performing and Visual Arts, is designed to provide foundational training in Bharatnatyam, focusing on its theory, practical dance techniques, and cultural significance. The program includes 16 credits across four courses, covering mudras, adavus, abhinaya, and traditional compositions. Study materials are provided in print and online via eGyanKosh, supported by audio-visual resources and practical sessions at designated study centers.

• Total Credits: 16 (4 credits per course; 1 credit = 30 hours of self-study).

• Focus: Covers Bharatnatyam theory, practical dance movements, and expressive techniques.

• Practical Component: Includes assignments (30% of marks) and practical performances to develop dance proficiency.

• Delivery: Through printed and digital study materials, with audio-visual aids and optional counseling/practical sessions at IGNOU study centers.

IGNOU CPABN Career Opportunities

Q: What career opportunities are available after completing the Certificate in Performing Arts - Bharatnatyam from IGNOU?
A: Completing the CPABN from IGNOU equips graduates with foundational skills in Bharatnatyam, enabling them to work as dance teachers, performers, or choreographers in educational institutions, cultural organizations, or the entertainment industry. Graduates can also pursue further studies, such as a Diploma or Degree in Performing Arts, to enhance their expertise. The program’s blend of theory and practical training prepares students for roles in dance education, performance, and cultural preservation.

• Career Options: Dance Teacher, Bharatnatyam Performer, Choreographer, Cultural Consultant, Event Performer.

• Average Salary Packages: INR 2–4 LPA for entry-level roles; experienced professionals can earn INR 5–8 LPA.

• Highest Salary Packages: Up to INR 10 LPA for established choreographers or performers in cultural organizations or media.

• Recruiters: Dance academies, cultural organizations (e.g., Sangeet Natak Akademi), schools, event management companies, and media houses.

FAQs about CPABN From IGNOU

1. What is the eligibility for IGNOU CPABN 2026?
   Eligibility includes a 10th pass or equivalent from a recognized board, with no minimum marks or age limit.

2. Is there an entrance exam for IGNOU CPABN?
   No, admission is direct and merit-based; no entrance exam is required.

3. Can I pursue IGNOU CPABN while working full-time?
   Yes, the ODL mode offers flexible study schedules, ideal for working professionals and learners with other commitments.

4. What is the total fee for IGNOU CPABN?
   The total fee is INR 4,000 for the 6-month program, plus a one-time registration fee of INR 300 and exam fees (INR 200 per course).

5. What subjects are covered in the IGNOU CPABN syllabus?
   The syllabus includes An Introduction to Indian Music (OVA-001), Understanding Bharatnatyam (OVA-005), Practical in Bharatnatyam-I (OVAI-006), and Practical in Bharatnatyam-II (OVAI-007).

6. What career options are available after completing IGNOU CPABN?
   Graduates can work as dance teachers, performers, choreographers, or cultural consultants, earning INR 2–4 LPA on average, with potential for higher earnings with experience.