IGNOU BA {Hons.} Political Science: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

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Content Curator | Updated on - Mar 31, 2026

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Political Science [BAPSH] at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is a 148-credit undergraduate degree programme offered in Open Distance Learning (ODL) mode through the School of Social Sciences (SOSS). The programme provides comprehensive coverage of political theory, Indian government and politics, comparative government, international relations, global politics, classical and modern political philosophy, and Indian political thought. With a minimum duration of 3 years and a maximum of 6 years, the programme fee is Rs. 5,300 per year, making it one of the most affordable Honours degrees in Political Science in India. Available in both English and Hindi medium, it is highly popular among UPSC aspirants, students interested in international relations, and those seeking careers in politics, law, journalism, and civil services. No entrance exam is required for admission.

Admission for the January 2026 cycle is currently ongoing, with the last date for fresh registration extended to 30th March 2026. Applications can be submitted at ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in. The July 2026 admission cycle is expected to open tentatively in May 2026.

Distance Mode Study Centres:

IGNOU BAPSH is offered exclusively in ODL (distance) mode. The programme has one of the most extensive networks of study centres across India, available at IGNOU Regional Centres in Hyderabad, Karnal, Shimla, Jammu, Bangalore, Cochin, Bhopal, Pune, Imphal, Shillong, Aizwal, Port Blair, Kohima, Bhubaneswar, Khanna, Jaipur, Gangtok, Chennai, Agartala, Lucknow, Kolkata, Delhi (1, 2, 3), Itanagar, Srinagar, Dehradun, Ranchi, Vijayawada, Raipur, Nagpur, Jorhat, Noida, Guwahati, Trivandrum, Jabalpur, Rajkot, Madurai, Koraput, Siliguri, Darbhanga, Aligarh, Varanasi, Mumbai, Patna, Chandigarh, Panaji, Bhagalpur, Vatakara, Visakhapatnam, Bijapur, Saharsa, Deoghar, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad, and Angul. The programme is also available at hundreds of Government Degree Colleges, Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) centres, and Government ITIs across the country. Students should verify the updated list on the official IGNOU Samarth portal.

Key Points

  • BAPSH is a 148-credit Honours programme with 14 Core Courses, 4 Discipline Specific Electives, 2 Ability Enhancement Compulsory Courses, 2 Skill Enhancement Courses, and 2 Generic Electives.
  • Core courses cover Political Theory, Constitutional Government and Democracy in India, Comparative Government, International Relations, Global Politics, Classical and Modern Political Philosophy, and Indian Political Thought.
  • Elective courses include State Politics in India, Gandhi and the Contemporary World, Democracy and Development in Northeast India, and Conflict Resolution and Peace Building.
  • Available in English and Hindi medium, making it accessible to learners across India.
  • Particularly valuable for UPSC aspirants (Political Science and International Relations as UPSC optional), law students, journalists, and those interested in governance and international affairs.
  • Students can complete the degree in a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of 6 years.
  • IGNOU degrees are recognized by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) and are valid for government and private sector employment.
  • No entrance exam is required; admission is direct based on 10+2 eligibility.
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IGNOU BAPSH Fees

The BAPSH programme at IGNOU is highly affordable, with a programme fee of Rs. 5,300 per year. Over the minimum 3-year duration, the total programme fee amounts to Rs. 15,900. A one-time registration fee of Rs. 300 and a development fee of Rs. 200 per year are also applicable, bringing the total payable amount for the complete 3-year programme to approximately Rs. 16,800. No hostel facility is mandated for this distance learning programme.

Fee Breakdown

Fee ComponentYear 1Year 2Year 3Total
Programme (Tuition) FeeRs. 5,300Rs. 5,300Rs. 5,300Rs. 15,900
Registration Fee (one-time)Rs. 300--Rs. 300
Development FeeRs. 200Rs. 200Rs. 200Rs. 600
Total FeesRs. 5,800Rs. 5,500Rs. 5,500Rs. 16,800
  • The Registration Fee of Rs. 300 is non-refundable.
  • Fee refund is available prior to confirmation of admission.
  • After confirmation, 15% of the programme fee (subject to a ceiling of Rs. 2,000) will be deducted on cancellation.
  • No refund is admissible after 60 days from the closing date of admissions.
  • Examination fee is charged separately per subject at the time of filling the Term-End Examination form.
  • Fees are subject to revision; always verify the latest fee on the official Samarth portal before applying.
  • No hostel facility is applicable for this ODL programme.

IGNOU BAPSH Admission 2026

IGNOU conducts admissions for BAPSH twice a year - January cycle (November to February) and July cycle (May to August). The January 2026 cycle is currently open with the last date extended to 30th March 2026. The July 2026 cycle is expected to open in May 2026. Admission is direct with no entrance exam; students need to meet the eligibility criteria and apply online through the Samarth portal.

IGNOU BAPSH Admission Dates

EventJanuary 2026 CycleJuly 2026 Cycle (Tentative)
Admission OpensNovember 2025May 2026
Last Date for Fresh Registration30th March 2026July/August 2026
Distribution of Study Material (SLM)January - March 2026July - September 2026
Contact Programmes / CounsellingFebruary - November 2026August 2026 - May 2027
Assignment SubmissionMarch - September 2026October 2026 - March 2027
Term-End Examination (TEE)June 2026December 2026
Result DeclarationAugust 2026February 2027

Relevant Exam Dates

No external entrance exam is required for BAPSH. The Term-End Examinations (TEE) conducted by IGNOU are the primary assessments. The June 2026 TEE is tentatively scheduled to commence from 1st June 2026.

The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Candidates must have passed 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board.
  • There is no upper age limit for admission.
  • The programme is available in English and Hindi medium.

Admission Process

  • Visit ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in and click New Registration.
  • Log in and select BAPSH programme with preferred Regional Centre and Study Centre.
  • Fill personal and academic details and upload required documents (10th/12th marksheets, photograph, signature, category certificate if applicable).
  • Pay the programme fee and registration fee online via Debit Card, Credit Card, or Net Banking.
  • Submit the application and download the acknowledgment slip.
  • Admission confirmation is sent via email/SMS after document verification.

IGNOU: Students' Opinion

AI-Generated Summary based on 19 Reviews

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) maintains a faculty-to-student ratio of about 1:30, although this may vary by course. Faculty members are approachable, offering online interactions three times a week to support students. Exams take place in May and December, are of moderate difficulty, and require a score of 35 out of 100 to pass. As a distance learning institution, IGNOU provides ample online resources, compensating for limited in-person interactions.

It caters to a diverse student body across India, offering flexibility to those balancing studies with other commitments. IGNOU offers scholarships such as the Merit Scholarship and Need-Based Scholarships to aid students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The annual course fee for most programs, like political science honors, ranges from INR 4,000 to INR 5,500, with an additional INR 200 examination fee per subject, making it an affordable option for higher education.

The total course fee for a three-year program is approximately INR 9,000 to INR 14,400, depending on enrollment specifics and materials. Study materials are provided at no extra cost, easing the financial burden on students. IGNOU aims for inclusivity and does not discriminate based on income or caste, fostering a supportive environment for all.

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IGNOU BAPSH Scholarships 2026

IGNOU students from reserved and economically weaker sections can avail several government-sponsored scholarships. The university encourages eligible students to apply on the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) after admission confirmation. Given the affordable fee structure of BAPSH, scholarships can make this programme virtually free for eligible SC/ST students.

Available Scholarships

Scholarship NameEligibilityAmount / BenefitApplication Portal
Post-Matric Scholarship for SC StudentsSC category studentsFee reimbursement / financial assistancescholarships.gov.in
Post-Matric Scholarship for ST StudentsST category studentsFee reimbursement / financial assistancescholarships.gov.in
Post-Matric Scholarship for OBC StudentsOBC students (income criteria apply)Financial assistancescholarships.gov.in
Central Sector Scheme of ScholarshipFamily income below Rs. 8 lakh p.a., top 20 percentile in 12th boardRs. 10,000 per year (UG)scholarships.gov.in
National Means-cum-Merit ScholarshipEconomically weaker studentsRs. 12,000 per yearscholarships.gov.in
Minority Community ScholarshipStudents from notified minority communitiesFinancial assistancescholarships.gov.in
IGNOU Fee Exemption (SC/ST)SC/ST studentsFull programme fee exemptionIGNOU Admission Portal
  • SC/ST students at IGNOU pay only Registration Fee (Rs. 300) and Development Fee (Rs. 200 per year); programme fee is fully exempted.
  • Students must apply for government scholarships on the National Scholarship Portal after admission confirmation.
  • Scholarship deadlines vary; check scholarships.gov.in regularly.

IGNOU BAPSH FAQs

Q1: Is IGNOU BAPSH useful for UPSC Civil Services preparation?

Ans. Yes, BAPSH is highly relevant for UPSC aspirants who choose Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) as their optional subject. The programme covers all major topics of the UPSC PSIR syllabus including political theory, Indian government, comparative politics, international relations, and global politics. Many UPSC aspirants pursue BAPSH simultaneously to build a strong foundation in their optional subject.

Q2: Can I pursue IGNOU BAPSH while working full-time?

Ans. Yes, BAPSH is designed for self-paced distance learners. There are no mandatory daily classes. Students attend contact/counselling sessions at their study centre (typically on weekends) and appear for TEE in June and December. Many working professionals, government employees, and UPSC aspirants successfully complete this programme alongside other commitments.

Q3: What is the difference between BAPSH (BA Hons. Political Science) and MPS (MA Political Science) at IGNOU?

Ans. BAPSH is an undergraduate Honours programme requiring 10+2 as eligibility, while MPS (Master of Arts in Political Science) is a postgraduate programme requiring a bachelor's degree. BAPSH provides foundational and intermediate knowledge of political science, while MPS offers advanced specialization. Students often pursue BAPSH first and then MPS for a complete academic pathway.

Q4: Is the IGNOU BAPSH degree valid for government recruitment and NET eligibility?

Ans. Yes, IGNOU is a Central University recognized by UGC and AIU. The BAPSH degree is valid for government recruitment, school teaching (with B.Ed.), and as a qualifying degree for UGC-NET in Political Science. Candidates who clear NET/SET after BAPSH can apply for Assistant Professor positions in colleges.

Q5: What career options are available after completing IGNOU BAPSH?

Ans. Graduates can pursue careers in civil services (IAS, IPS, IFS through UPSC), state public service commissions, journalism and media, law (with LLB), NGOs and international organizations, policy research institutes, political consultancy, and academic careers (with further qualifications like MA and NET/SET). The programme's coverage of international relations also opens doors in foreign affairs and diplomacy.

Q6: How does the BAPSH programme handle the semester system in distance mode?

Ans. BAPSH follows a semester-based structure with 6 semesters over 3 years. However, in ODL mode, IGNOU conducts Term-End Examinations (TEE) twice a year (June and December), which effectively covers both semesters. Students submit assignments before each TEE cycle and appear for exams at their designated study centre. The flexible structure allows students to manage their study pace within the minimum 3-year and maximum 6-year duration.

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Sumit kumar
Sumit kumar
5.0
Reviewed on Mar 1, 2025(Enrolled 2017)

Student Snaps:

Fees and Financial Aid:

I have joined BA from Ignou that was so fanstatic and the guidance theat were provided is so good. if you just go blindly to this university i must say you will get all relevant help from university side from admission to course completion. Infact University is also starting their college placement drive so that our youngster will achieve something in our life and start their own carrer. Infact University did not discrimante to anyone on the basis of earning or caste. They have maintained the decorum and also i wish that the university will go further. It also get the NIRF Ranking along with the NAAC A+ to the University by Goverment of India.
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Rohan
Rohan
5.0
Reviewed on Feb 27, 2025(Enrolled 2022)

Fees and Financial Aid:

The total course fee for the complete 3 years is 9k (approx).Tuition fee 1200 per semester. If we discuss about examination fee so its 200 per subject given that the BA programer consists of multiple subjects.
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Ankita Kumari Padhy
5.0Helpful
Reviewed on Feb 27, 2025(Enrolled 2024)

Fees and Financial Aid:

per year i pay 5500 rupees college fee. tution fees 1000 rupees . no categories are there in batchmates. a lot of scholarships are there for students. but many students are wont get scholarships. students are need money.
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ishika
ishika
3.0
Reviewed on Jan 30, 2025(Enrolled 2022)

Fees and Financial Aid:

as i am the student of final year in IGNOU. so the fees in first year was 4000 with extra charges of book and in the second year as of the subjects were increased so the cahrges of fees will increases and now in the third year the fees would approximately 4300 without books and 4900 with books. the fees will be approximately 4000 to 5000 per year depending on the student.
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Srishti Kirti Kirti
Srishti Kirti Kirti
5.0Helpful
Reviewed on Jan 16, 2025(Enrolled 2024)

Fees and Financial Aid:

Ignuo has a few structure of rs 10000 for entire 3 years for ba pol science hons. I am doing distance learning in order to prepare for competition also. The fees is minimal any of you can afford it easily.
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Abhishek Kumar Aman
Abhishek Kumar Aman
4.8
Reviewed on Jan 10, 2025(Enrolled 2021)

Fees and Financial Aid:

My annual one time tution fee is 5200 with study material First year annual fee is also 5200 and 3rd year annual fee us also 5200 with study material. Examination form fee is per subject 200 rupees and total subject no of subject is 26.
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College Ninja
3.2
Reviewed on Jan 7, 2025(Enrolled 2024)

Fees and Financial Aid:

First year student admission course fees was 5500 provide also book if you not want book then 4800 exam fees was 200rs per subject. This is only for first year then after after re admission 5500rs Assignment copy submissions need no money
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Nishant
Nishant
5.0
Reviewed on Dec 26, 2024(Enrolled 2020)

Fees and Financial Aid:

Ignou stands for Indira Gandhi National open University which was established on year 1985 .it's open distance learning platform every course have their own course fee. i completed my graduation on 2023 on that time the course price was 14,400 the price is also same today
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Rudresh Singh Rautela
Rudresh Singh Rautela
5.0Helpful
Reviewed on Oct 12, 2024(Enrolled 2023)

Fees and Financial Aid:

My yearly fees is basically 4500 and i have to pay examination fee also of 1000 around. And every year i have to re-register my self by paying same amount and it is very affordable course for me of 3 years i might take my 15k around.
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Arsh shivam
2.3
Reviewed on Oct 6, 2024(Enrolled 2020)

Fees and Financial Aid:

Yearly he have to pay around Three thousad which is followed by three year , it Aslo include Examination fess which is held 3 time , . As ignou is distance course so no teacher fees or building fess ,but have to pay extra for degree certificate around 1000
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