IGNOU M.A Economics: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Maidan Garhi, New DelhiOpen UniversityEstd 1985NAAC Grade A++
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Collegedunia Team

Content Curator | Updated on - Mar 31, 2026

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) offers the Master of Arts in Economics (programme code: MAEC/MEC) through Open Distance Learning (ODL) mode, under the School of Social Sciences (SOSS). The 2-year programme aims to develop learners' abilities to explain the functioning of the economy and enhance their analytical skills, covering microeconomics, macroeconomics, quantitative methods, economics of growth and development, Indian economic policy, public economics, international trade, and social sector economics. With a programme fee of Rs. 9,500 per year (total Rs. 19,300 including registration and development fees), no entrance exam, and the flexibility to complete the degree over a maximum of 5 years, the MAEC programme is popular among UPSC aspirants, working professionals, banking and finance sector employees, and those seeking NET/SET eligibility. The programme is available in both English and Hindi medium and is recognised by all member institutions of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).

Admission for the January 2026 cycle is currently ongoing. The last date for submission of the application form (for ODL programmes) has been extended to 30th March 2026. Students who have already enrolled for January 2026 can submit their Term-End Examination (TEE) forms for June 2026 TEE between 10th March 2026 and 10th April 2026 (without late fee), and between 11th April 2026 and 24th April 2026 (with a late fee of Rs. 1,100).

Distance Mode Study Centres:

The MAEC programme is offered exclusively in Distance/ODL mode. IGNOU has an extensive network of study centres across India. Key regional centres offering this programme include:

  • Hyderabad, Karnal, Shimla, Jammu, Bangalore, Cochin, Bhopal, Pune, Imphal, Shillong, Aizawl, Port Blair, Kohima, Bhubaneshwar, Khanna, Jaipur, Gangtok, Chennai, Agartala, Lucknow, Kolkata, Delhi (multiple centres), Itanagar, Srinagar, Dehradun, Ranchi, Vijayawada, Raipur, Nagpur, Jorhat, Guwahati, Trivandrum, Jabalpur, Rajkot, Madurai, Koraput, Siliguri, Darbhanga, Aligarh, Varanasi, Mumbai, Patna, Raghunathganj, Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, Angul, Bhagalpur, Jodhpur, Bijapur, Saharsa, Deoghar, Vatakara, Vishakhapatnam, Panaji, and many more.

Students must select a study centre at the time of admission. A full list of study centres is available on the IGNOU admission portal (ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in).

Key Points

  • No entrance exam required; admission is direct based on eligibility.
  • Available in both English and Hindi medium.
  • Covers microeconomics, macroeconomics, quantitative methods, development economics, Indian economic policy, public economics, international trade, and social sector economics.
  • Elective courses include Econometric Methods, Actuarial Economics, Financial Institutions and Markets, and Women in the Economy.
  • Flexible duration: minimum 2 years, maximum 5 years to complete the programme.
  • Exams are held twice a year (June and December TEE), giving students the option to appear at their own pace.
  • Assessment is based on 30% weightage for assignments and 70% for Term-End Examinations (TEE).
  • The MAEC syllabus closely aligns with the UPSC Civil Services Examination Economics optional paper.
  • The degree is recognised by AIU and is valid for government jobs, NET/SET eligibility, and further academic pursuits.
  • IGNOU has been accredited with A++ grade by NAAC.
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IGNOU MAEC Fees

The MAEC programme at IGNOU is priced slightly higher than other MA programmes due to the technical and quantitative nature of the course. The total programme fee is Rs. 19,300 for the full 2-year course, payable at Rs. 9,500 per year plus a one-time registration fee of Rs. 300. Exam fees are charged separately at the time of TEE form submission and are not included in the programme fee.

Fee Structure

Fee ComponentYear 1 (Rs.)Year 2 (Rs.)Total (Rs.)
Programme/Tuition Fee9,0009,00018,000
Registration Fee (one-time)300-300
Development Fee200200400
Study Material (printed, optional)IncludedIncludedIncluded
Examination Fee (per course/paper)As applicableAs applicable~200 per paper
Total Fees (excl. exam fee)9,5009,20018,700
Total Fees (incl. registration)9,8009,20019,000
  • The registration fee of Rs. 300 is a one-time, non-refundable charge.
  • Development fee is Rs. 200 per year.
  • Students opting for soft copy (e-SLM) of study material instead of printed material may be eligible for a partial fee refund if they cancel admission before confirmation.
  • An amount equivalent to 15% of the programme fee (subject to a ceiling of Rs. 2,000) will be deducted if cancellation is requested after confirmation of admission.
  • No refund is admissible after 60 days from the closing date of admissions.
  • Fee can be paid online via Credit Card, Debit Card, or Net Banking.
  • There is no hostel facility at IGNOU headquarters; hostel is not mandatory.
  • No EMI option is officially available; fee is paid year-wise at the time of re-registration.

IGNOU MAEC Admission 2026

Admission to the MAEC programme at IGNOU is straightforward and merit-based, with no entrance examination. The January 2026 admission cycle is currently open, with the last date extended to 30th March 2026. Students admitted in the January 2026 cycle will be eligible to appear for the June 2026 Term-End Examination. The next admission cycle (July 2026) is expected to open around June 2026, based on previous year patterns.

IGNOU MAEC Admission and Examination Dates

EventDate
January 2026 Admission Cycle OpensDecember 16, 2025
Last Date for Fresh Admission (January 2026 ODL)March 30, 2026
June 2026 TEE Exam Form Submission (without late fee)March 10, 2026 - April 10, 2026
June 2026 TEE Exam Form Submission (with late fee of Rs. 1,100)April 11, 2026 - April 24, 2026
June 2026 TEE Hall Ticket ReleaseMay 2026 (tentative)
June 2026 Term-End ExaminationJune 1, 2026 - July 15, 2026
July 2026 Admission Cycle Opens (tentative)June 2026
Last Date for July 2026 Admission (tentative)September/October 2026
December 2026 TEE (tentative)December 2026

Note: IGNOU does not conduct any entrance examination for the MAEC programme. No external exam dates are applicable.

The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.

Eligibility Criteria

  • A Bachelor's degree or higher from a recognised university in any discipline is required.
  • There is no minimum percentage requirement specified for general category students.
  • There is no upper age limit for admission.

Admission Process

  • Visit the IGNOU Online Admission Portal: ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in
  • Click on 'New Registration' and complete the registration process using your own email ID and mobile number (OTP verification required).
  • Log in and select the MAEC programme from the list of available programmes.
  • Fill in the application form with personal, academic, and programme details.
  • Select your preferred medium of study (English or Hindi).
  • Upload scanned copies of required documents: photograph, signature, educational qualification certificates, and category certificate (if applicable).
  • Pay the programme fee online via Credit Card, Debit Card, or Net Banking.
  • Select your preferred study centre from the available list.
  • Submit the form and save/print the confirmation for future reference.
  • Study material will be dispatched to the registered address after confirmation of admission.

IGNOU: Students' Opinion

AI-Generated Summary based on 8 Reviews

The post-graduation program at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) offers direct admission to candidates with a graduation degree in any field. Functioning predominantly as a distance learning institution, the college provides minimal direct interaction between students and faculty, except during assignment submissions and certain practical courses. Study materials are available online, with options for physical book delivery. Faculty is described as qualified and supportive, maintaining communication mainly through mobile interactions.

Exams vary in difficulty, but materials are comprehensive, aiding most students in passing. IGNOU occasionally conducts placement drives focusing on internal positions, but regular campus placements are not offered. Post-PhD candidates can apply for teaching roles, and various internships with notable companies are accessible. The Master of Arts in Economics (MEC) program costs Rs. 18,400 in total, with Rs. 9,200 per year and a one-time registration fee of Rs. 300.

Additional examination fees are Rs. 200 per subject. Delhi University charges Rs. 240 for tuition and additional fees of approximately Rs. 10,350 annually. While IGNOU doesn't offer direct scholarships, students from marginalized backgrounds can seek financial aid from the government. Fee increases are infrequent and minimal, making the program affordable, particularly for economically disadvantaged students.

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IGNOU MAEC Scholarships 2026

IGNOU offers several scholarship and fee concession options for eligible students enrolled in the MAEC programme. SC/ST students and economically weaker sections are the primary beneficiaries, and students can also apply for government scholarships through the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) after confirmation of admission.

Scholarship Schemes

Scholarship / SchemeEligibilityBenefitHow to Apply
IGNOU Fee Concession for SC/ST StudentsSC/ST students; family income below Rs. 2.5 lakh per annumUp to 50% fee concession on programme feeApply through Regional Centre; submit caste and income certificate
Fee Exemption for Jail InmatesStudents enrolled from jail/correctional facilitiesFull exemption from programme fee and registration fee (exam fee and re-registration fee applicable after release)Through Regional Centre/Jail authorities
Merit Cum Means Scholarship for Minorities (NSP)Minority community students; family income below Rs. 2.5 lakh per annum; minimum 50% in previous examRs. 20,000 per year (course fee + maintenance allowance)Apply online at scholarships.gov.in
Scholarship for Top Class Education for Students with DisabilitiesStudents with 40%+ disability; family income below Rs. 6 lakh per annumFull tuition fee (up to Rs. 2 lakh/year) + maintenance allowance + book allowance + device allowanceApply online at scholarships.gov.in
Top Class Education Scheme for SC StudentsSC students admitted under general category seats; family income below Rs. 8 lakh per annumFull tuition fee (up to Rs. 2 lakh/year) + living and book allowancesApply via Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment portal
State Government ScholarshipsVaries by state; SC/ST/OBC/EWS studentsVaries by state schemeApply through respective state scholarship portals
  • A student can avail only one scholarship at a time.
  • Scholarship forms must be certified by the Regional Director at the respective IGNOU Regional Centre before submission.
  • Application deadlines vary by scheme; students should check the National Scholarship Portal and their respective state portals for current deadlines.

IGNOU MAEC FAQs

Ques. Is IGNOU MA Economics (MAEC) useful for UPSC preparation?

Ans. Yes, the MAEC programme is widely regarded as one of the best choices for UPSC aspirants who want to pursue Economics as their optional subject. The IGNOU MAEC syllabus covers Microeconomic Analysis, Macroeconomic Analysis, Economics of Growth and Development, Indian Economic Policy, Public Economics, and International Trade, which closely aligns with the UPSC Civil Services Examination Economics optional paper. The flexible ODL format allows students to pursue both simultaneously.

Ques. Is IGNOU MA Economics difficult? Is it suitable for non-Economics graduates?

Ans. The MAEC programme is considered more challenging than other IGNOU MA programmes due to its quantitative and analytical content, particularly the Quantitative Methods and Econometrics courses. Students from non-Economics backgrounds may find it demanding initially. However, IGNOU's self-learning material is designed to be self-explanatory, and students can supplement their learning with online resources. Many non-Economics graduates have successfully completed the programme with dedicated effort.

Ques. Is the IGNOU MA Economics degree valid for government jobs and NET/SET eligibility?

Ans. Yes. The IGNOU MAEC degree is recognised by all member institutions of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) and is valid for government jobs requiring a postgraduate degree. It is also accepted for UGC-NET/SET eligibility, enabling graduates to become Assistant Professors or qualify for JRF in Economics. IGNOU's A++ NAAC accreditation further strengthens the degree's recognition.

Ques. What is the course structure of IGNOU MA Economics (MAEC)?

Ans. The MAEC programme covers compulsory courses including MEC-001 (Microeconomic Analysis), MEC-002 (Macroeconomic Analysis), MEC-103 (Quantitative Methods), MEC-004 (Economics of Growth and Development), MEC-205 (Indian Economic Policy), MEC-006 (Public Economics), MEC-007/107 (International Trade and Finance), MEC-008 (Economics of Social Sector and Environment), and MEC-109 (Research Methods in Economics). Elective courses include MECE-001 (Econometric Methods), MECE-003 (Actuarial Economics), MECE-004 (Financial Institutions and Markets), and others.

Ques. How are marks calculated in IGNOU MA Economics? What is the passing criteria?

Ans. The final marks are calculated as: 30% from Assignments + 70% from Term-End Examination (TEE). You need to score a minimum of 40% in TEE and 40% overall (combined) to pass each course. Assignments must be submitted before the TEE to be eligible to appear for the exam. Given the quantitative nature of the programme, students are advised to practice numerical problems regularly.

Ques. What career options are available after IGNOU MA Economics?

Ans. Graduates of IGNOU MAEC can pursue a wide range of careers. Popular options include: qualifying UGC-NET/SET to become an Assistant Professor or Lecturer in Economics; appearing for UPSC Civil Services Examination (with Economics as optional); working in banking, finance, and insurance sectors; applying for RBI Grade B, NABARD, and other financial sector examinations; pursuing PhD in Economics; working in economic research organisations, think tanks, and policy institutes; and applying for government jobs in planning, finance, and economic advisory roles.

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IGNOU: 2 Answered Questions

Is it really difficult to get into PhD economics programs of universities like DSE, ISI or JNU with an M.A. Economics degree from IGNOU?

Aarushi KumarEducator/Facilitator at Government of India

PhD or research is all about finding out new concepts. Thus we provide a deeper in already existing knowledge. PhD in Social Science is very much different from that of pure sciences, yet the goal is the same. As you know for doing research/PhD at the university level, the qualification required is PG degree. Every university has different criteria for selecting candidates.

As you know DSE, JNU, ISI, IEW, IIPA, and IIMs are the prime institutions for teaching, learning and researching in economics, management and public administration.

If you are willing to get into one of these institutions, a Master’s from IGNOU will have the same value as that from any other university. To get selected into these prestigious institutions, you will have to pass through a rigorous selection process of

  • Entrance

  • Group discussion 

  • Personal interview 

Moreover you will have to provide testimonials from your professors about your academic developments.

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Should I do MA in Economics from IGNOU?

Supriya Sarkar
Sanjhbati GuptaStudied at Indira Gandhi National Open University

Pursuing IGNOU MA in Economics is good if you are a working professional or preparing for competitive examination. The course structure is flexible and gives students time to study at their own pace. You can apply for Govt. examinations such as Indian Economic Service Examination after completing the course. You can take NET/JRF as well. 

Pursuing the course will only be worth the investment if you secure a good percentage. So, concentrate on studies from the first year itself. 

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Eswari
Eswari
4.0
Reviewed on Dec 24, 2024(Enrolled 2021)

Fees and Financial Aid:

I am a postgraduate student from Indira Gandhi national open university, when i studying the fee structure are 9,200 per annum. In my 2 years i would pay nearly 18,400 for only course then i want to pay for exam Rs. 200 per theory course, project fee : Rs. 300 per course and Rs. 500 per course. And i don't get any scholarships or financial aid from any source because iam from unreserve category. My friends also have to pay nearly same amount but some people who regarding to reserve category they pay less amount comparing to unreserved.
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Yashika Ahuja
4.0Helpful
Reviewed on Nov 18, 2024(Enrolled 2020)

Fees and Financial Aid:

The fee structure for Master of Arts in Economics (MEC) program in IGNOU is as follows: -Total program fees: Rs.18,400 -Annual fee: Rs.9200 -One-time registration fee: Rs.300 {non-refundable} The fee structure in Delhi University is as follows: -Tuition fees:Rs. 240 -University Student Welfare Fund: Rs.200 -College Student Welfare Fund: Rs.1560 -Univ Development Fund and other charges: Rs.8210 Total would be around : Rs. 10,350
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Khusroo Tauheed
3.9
Reviewed on Sep 14, 2024(Enrolled 2021)

Student Snaps:

Fees and Financial Aid:

Yearly fee of MA in Economics (MEC) program in 2021 was 8600 + exam fee. As per my knowledge there was no scholarship from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). You can check the details for more fee and scholarship details.
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PAVNEET SINGH
PAVNEET SINGH
2.9
Reviewed on Jun 13, 2024(Enrolled 2022)

Fees and Financial Aid:

you will not see any sudden hike in the tution fee or course fee.there are very minor change in the fee structure in year or two years which you will not even notice. as i have done my masters in economics i have given about 7300 for my first year,the fee is bit more but as i have not ordered any study material from ignou so i had to pay less amount.however,the examination fee is also taking when you fill the examination form which is around 200rs per subject. the reserved candidates can get the scholarships or finanicial aid from the institution. i have not taken any campus employment till now but IGNOU offers many opportunties for job in their campus.
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Anonymous
2.5
Reviewed on Jun 7, 2024(Enrolled 2021)

Fees and Financial Aid:

Fees is reasonable, you can opt for pdf's of books rather than books delivery as it will minimize your fees and plus pdf's are much better as it is accessible and convenient. The total cost for two year program of MA Economics is 20000 + examination fees depend on your total subjects you enrolled for, for eg per subject is 200/ + late fees charges are also applicable.
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Rakhi
Rakhi
3.7
Reviewed on May 11, 2023(Enrolled 2021)

Fees and Financial Aid:

Fees policy is reasonable as it is a government University. Government Scholarships and Financial Assistant from the central government were provided to the students. Placement and internship are not there for students.
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Anonymous
3.8
Reviewed on Dec 22, 2022(Enrolled 2021)

Fees and Financial Aid:

This is the best place to get a remarkable degree at an affordable price. The fee for MA in economics is 7000 per year only. Scholarships are not provided by the college because fees are already not so high.
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HIMANSHU THAKUR
4.0Helpful
Reviewed on Apr 3, 2021(Enrolled 2019)

Fees and Financial Aid:

My course masters in economics fees are 8000 per year. And it's very affordable for students with poor financial background too. The university rarely hikes the fees. Many students from the marginalized community get financial aid or scholarship in their education from the central government.
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