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

Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is a flexible and affordable 1 Year postgraduate diploma degree—extendable up to 3 Years. Conducted fully through Open 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 Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development is a popular choice among students aiming for careers across urban planning, development authorities, and consultancies. 

IGNOU PGDUPDL 2026: Key Highlights

A quick overview of Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development at IGNOU is given below.

IGNOU PGDUPDL Eligibility Criteria 2026

To be eligible for admission to the IGNOU Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development program, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:

• Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
• Minimum Marks Required: No minimum percentage specified.
• Age Limit: No age limit.
• Entrance Exam (if any): No entrance test required.
• Other Requirements: None, though interest in urban development or related fields is beneficial but not mandatory.

IGNOU PGDUPDL Admission 2026

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) offers direct admission to the Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development program; you are not required to appear for any entrance examination.

Admission to Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development at IGNOU takes place twice a year, in January and July sessions. The 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.

How To Apply for IGNOU PGDUPDL Online 2026

Admission to Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development 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 Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development 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.

Check : IGNOU Admission 2026

The annual fees to study Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development from IGNOU is INR 8,000, and the total fees range between INR 8,000 for the entire duration of the program. This is significantly lower than the traditional Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development program offered by institutions like CEPT University, School of Planning and Architecture, making it a popular choice for distance learners across India. IGNOU Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development fee structure 2026 is as follows:

Check : IGNOU Course & Fee

IGNOU Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development Syllabus

The IGNOU Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development syllabus is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge of urban governance, planning, and development issues. The program totals 32 credits, comprising eight courses, including an optional project, focusing on urban challenges, inclusive planning, and research methodologies to address urbanization issues effectively.

• Key Features:
  • Covers urban governance, planning dynamics, and inclusive urban strategies.
  • Includes practical assignments and an optional project for hands-on application.
  • Prepares students for roles in urban development and policy-making.

The syllabus for Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development covers core and elective subjects to provide comprehensive knowledge.

IGNOU PGDUPDL Career Opportunities

Completing the Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development from IGNOU equips graduates with skills to excel in urban planning, policy development, and sustainable urban management. The program prepares professionals for careers in government agencies, urban local bodies, consultancies, and NGOs, addressing challenges like transportation, poverty, and unauthorized settlements.

• Career options: Urban Planner, Development Surveyor, Sustainability Consultant, Urban Policy Analyst, Project Coordinator.
• Top recruiters: Government departments (Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs), urban local bodies, consultancies (CBRE, JLL), NGOs, development authorities.
• Average salary: INR 3-6 LPA for entry-level roles; experienced professionals can earn INR 6-9 LPA.
• Highest salary packages: Up to INR 9-12 LPA in senior roles or reputed consultancies.

FAQs about PGDUPDL From IGNOU

1. Is PGDUPDL from IGNOU recognized by employers?
   Yes, the Post Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Development (PGDUPDL) from IGNOU is recognized by UGC and accepted by government and private sector employers in urban development.

2. What is the fee for the IGNOU PGDUPDL course?
   The total fee for IGNOU PGDUPDL is Rs. 8,000 for the full program, plus a one-time registration fee of Rs. 300. Exam fees are Rs. 200 per course.

3. Does IGNOU PGDUPDL require an entrance exam?
   No, admission to IGNOU PGDUPDL is merit-based; no entrance exam is required. Eligibility is based on a bachelor’s degree in any discipline.

4. What is the duration of PGDUPDL at IGNOU?
   The minimum duration for IGNOU PGDUPDL is 1 year, extendable up to 3 years, offering flexibility for working professionals.

5. What jobs can I get after completing PGDUPDL from IGNOU?
   After PGDUPDL, you can pursue roles like Urban Planner, Development Surveyor, or Sustainability Consultant in government agencies, consultancies, or NGOs.

6. How can I download the IGNOU PGDUPDL syllabus PDF?
   Download the detailed PGDUPDL syllabus from the IGNOU website under the School of Extension and Development Studies or in the Common Prospectus 2026 at ignou.ac.in.