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

Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Statistics 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 Applied Statistics is a popular choice among students aiming for careers across data analysis, market research, and statistical applications in industries like software, pharmaceuticals, and academia.

IGNOU PGDAST 2026: Key Highlights

A quick overview of Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Statistics at IGNOU is given below.

IGNOU PGDAST Eligibility Criteria 2026

To be eligible for admission to the IGNOU Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Statistics program, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:

• Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
• Minimum Marks Required: Minimum of 50% aggregate marks (45% for reserved categories).
• Age Limit: No age limit.
• Entrance Exam (if any): No entrance test required.
• Other Requirements: Basic familiarity with mathematical concepts is helpful but not mandatory.

How To Apply for IGNOU PGDAST Online

Admission to Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Statistics 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 Applied Statistics 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.

Check : IGNOU Admission 2026

IGNOU PGDAST Fee Structure 2026

The annual fees to study Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Statistics 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 Applied Statistics program offered by institutions like ISI Kolkata, IIMs, making it a popular choice for distance learners across India. IGNOU Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Statistics fee structure 2026 is as follows:

Check : IGNOU Course & Fee

IGNOU PGDAST Syllabus

The IGNOU Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Statistics syllabus is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge of statistical techniques, focusing on practical applications in industrial, business, and commercial fields. The program totals 32 credits, including core courses in mathematics, probability, statistical inference, and specialized areas like industrial statistics and biostatistics, with hands-on training through lab courses.

• Key Features:
  • Emphasizes practical application of statistical tools in industries and research.
  • Includes lab courses for hands-on training with statistical software.
  • Offers specializations in survey sampling, multivariate analysis, time series analysis, and applied regression.

The syllabus for Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Statistics covers core and elective subjects to provide comprehensive knowledge.

IGNOU PGDAST Career Opportunities

Completing the Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Statistics from IGNOU equips graduates with skills for careers in data analysis, market research, and quality control across industries like software, pharmaceuticals, and academia. The program prepares professionals to apply statistical tools in real-world scenarios, meeting the growing demand for data-driven decision-making.

• Career options: Data Analyst, Market Research Analyst, Quality Control Specialist, Biostatistician, Business Intelligence Analyst.
• Top recruiters: TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Accenture, pharmaceutical companies like Cipla, government research organizations, academic institutions.
• Average salary: INR 3-8 LPA for entry-level roles; experienced professionals can earn INR 6-15 LPA.
• Highest salary packages: Up to INR 12-15 LPA in senior roles or specialized fields like biostatistics.

FAQs about PGDAST From IGNOU

1. Is PGDAST from IGNOU recognized by UGC?
   Yes, the Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Statistics (PGDAST) from IGNOU is recognized by UGC and equivalent to conventional diplomas, valid for jobs and further studies.

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

3. Does IGNOU PGDAST require an entrance exam?
   No, admission to IGNOU PGDAST is merit-based; no entrance exam is required. Eligibility is based on a bachelor’s degree with 50% marks (45% for reserved categories).

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

5. What jobs can I get after completing PGDAST from IGNOU?
   After PGDAST, you can pursue roles like Data Analyst, Market Research Analyst, or Biostatistician in industries like software, pharmaceuticals, or academia.

6. How can I download the IGNOU PGDAST syllabus PDF?
   Download the detailed PGDAST syllabus from the IGNOU website under the School of Sciences or in the Common Prospectus 2026 at ignou.ac.in.