IGNOU MSW (Counselling): Admission 2026, Fees, Eligibility, Syllabus, Last Date & How to Apply

The Master of Social Work (MSW) (Counselling) from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is a flexible and affordable 2-year postgraduate degree—extendable up to 5 years. Conducted fully through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode, it is ideal for professionals, counsellors, and learners who want to advance in social work, counselling, and human services. With UGC recognition, affordable fees, and a practical counselling-based curriculum, IGNOU MSW (Counselling) is a popular choice for students aiming for careers in healthcare, community development, NGOs, schools, and corporate wellness programs.

IGNOU MSW (Counselling) 2026: Key Highlights

IGNOU MSW (Counselling) Eligibility Criteria 2026

To be eligible for admission to IGNOU MSW (Counselling):

• Educational Qualification: Graduation or equivalent in any discipline from a recognized University.

• Minimum Marks Required: 50% (General), 45% (Reserved categories).

• Work Experience: Minimum 3 years of managerial, supervisory, or professional experience required.

• Age Limit: No age limit.

• Entrance Exam: No separate entrance exam, but candidates must attend an Interview/Counselling session.

IGNOU MSW (Counselling) Admission 2026

IGNOU offers merit + counselling-based admission to the MSW (Counselling) programme. No separate written entrance test is required.

• Admissions take place in January & July sessions.

• The last date to apply for the July 2026 session is August 31, 2026.

• The admission process is conducted via the Samarth Portal, where students register, upload documents, and pay fees online.

How To Apply for IGNOU MSW (Counselling) Online

Step 1: Review Course Details
Check eligibility, programme fees (₹36,000), duration (2–5 years), and mode (ODL).

Step 2: Register on the IGNOU Admission Portal

• Visit the IGNOU Samarth Portal.

• Click “New Registration” and create login credentials.

Step 3: Upload the Required Documents

• Recent passport-size photograph (JPG, 100 KB)

• Signature (JPG, 100 KB)

• Graduation/qualification certificates (PDF, 200 KB)

• Experience certificate (PDF, 200 KB)

• Category certificate (if applicable)

Step 4: Fill and Submit the Application
Provide academic, personal, and professional details. Verify carefully before submission.

Step 5: Pay the Fee

• Pay online via Credit/Debit Card, Net Banking, or UPI.

• Programme fee: ₹36,000.

• Registration fee: ₹300 (non-refundable).

Fees for IGNOU MSW (Counselling) in 2026

The total programme fee for MSW (Counselling) is ₹36,000.

IGNOU MSW (Counselling) Syllabus

Summary: The MSW (Counselling) programme blends theory, practical counselling techniques, and social work applications. It equips learners with professional counselling skills required in hospitals, schools, NGOs, corporate offices, and rehabilitation centres.

Highlights:

• Total Credits: 72

• Medium: English

• Strong focus on counselling and mental health

• Practicum & fieldwork weightage: 40%

• Includes project/dissertation in final year

Programme Structure (Semester-wise):

IGNOU MSW (Counselling) Career Opportunities

Answer: After completing MSW (Counselling) from IGNOU, graduates can work as professional counsellors, social workers, rehabilitation officers, NGO project heads, or mental health support staff in both public and private sectors.

Highlights:

• Careers in schools, NGOs, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, corporate HR, and welfare programs

• Roles: Counsellor, Social Worker, HR Manager, Mental Health Practitioner, Rehabilitation Counsellor

• Recruiters include NGOs, schools, hospitals, mental health organisations, CSR wings of corporates, and UN agencies

• Average salary: ₹3–6 LPA (entry-level); experienced professionals may earn ₹8–12 LPA

FAQs about IGNOU MSW (Counselling)

1. What is the duration of IGNOU MSW (Counselling)?
   Minimum 2 years, maximum 5 years.

2. What is the total fee for IGNOU MSW (Counselling)?
   The full programme fee is ₹36,000.

3. Is there an entrance exam for IGNOU MSW (Counselling)?
   No, but admission includes counselling/interview.

4. What is the eligibility for IGNOU MSW (Counselling)?
   Graduation with 50% (General) / 45% (Reserved) + 3 years work experience.

5. Is there an age limit for IGNOU MSW (Counselling)?
   No, there is no age restriction.

6. What are the job opportunities after IGNOU MSW (Counselling)?
   Careers in counselling, social work, NGOs, hospitals, schools, and corporates with salaries ranging from ₹3–12 LPA.