IGNOU Degree & Certificate – Issue Process, Delays & What Students Can Do

For many IGNOU students, the degree or provisional certificate is the final—and most important—step. It is needed for jobs, higher education, government verification, and personal closure.

Unfortunately, this is also where delays are common. This page explains how IGNOU issues degrees and certificates, why delays happen, and what actions actually help (and what usually doesn’t).

What Certificates Does IGNOU Issue?

IGNOU issues different documents at different stages:

  • Grade Card – Shows marks and completion status
  • Provisional Certificate – Temporary proof of programme completion
  • Original Degree / Certificate – Final official document

These are not issued together and not always automatically.

When Does IGNOU Issue the Degree?

IGNOU generally issues degrees:

  • After successful completion of all programme requirements
  • Once results for all courses are declared
  • After internal verification is completed

Degrees are usually issued:

  • During Convocation, or
  • Through post / collection, depending on the situation

There is no fixed universal timeline.

What Is a Provisional Certificate?

A Provisional Certificate:

  • Confirms that you have completed your programme
  • Is often accepted for jobs and higher studies
  • Is issued before the original degree

Many students rely on the provisional certificate while waiting for the final degree.

How to Apply for IGNOU Degree or Certificate

Depending on the programme and year:

  • Some degrees are issued automatically
  • Others require online application
  • Convocation registration may be required

Students should:

  • Track official IGNOU notifications
  • Check the student portal regularly
  • Not assume automatic dispatch in all cases

Missing an application step can delay things further.

Why IGNOU Degree or Certificate Gets Delayed

Delays usually happen due to:

  • Pending or late-updated results
  • Incomplete assignment records
  • Project or practical marks not reflected
  • Administrative backlog
  • Convocation scheduling delays

In most cases, delays are systemic, not personal. Degree issuance is commonly delayed when final project evaluation or migration formalities are pending.

Degree Status Shows “Not Issued” – What It Usually Means

This status often causes panic.

Usually, it means:

  • Verification is still in progress
  • Degree is queued for printing or dispatch
  • Convocation cycle is pending

It does not automatically mean something is wrong with your record.

What You Can Do If Your Degree Is Delayed

Practical steps that help:

  1. Ensure your grade card shows full completion
  2. Check whether convocation registration was required
  3. Apply for provisional certificate if needed
  4. Contact Regional Centre only after verification

Repeated emails without documentation rarely speed things up.

Degree Verification for Jobs or Higher Studies

Many employers and universities:

  • Accept provisional certificates
  • Use online verification portals
  • Ask for confirmation letters

If deadlines are tight:

  • Explain the IGNOU process clearly
  • Provide available official proof
  • Avoid unofficial letters or assumptions

Common Myths About IGNOU Degrees

Let’s clear a few misconceptions:

  • “IGNOU degrees are issued immediately after results”
    → Rarely true.
  • “Delay means my degree is cancelled”
    → Almost never.
  • “Calling daily helps”
    → It usually doesn’t.
  • “Convocation is mandatory to get degree”
    → Not always.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does IGNOU take to issue degrees?

There is no fixed timeline. Delays of several months are not unusual.

Can I work without the original degree?

Often yes, using provisional certificates or grade cards.

What if my degree has a spelling mistake?

Corrections are possible but require formal application and time.

Can I collect my degree in person?

Only in specific cases and when officially allowed.

Does IGNOU issue duplicate degrees?

Yes, under prescribed rules and fees.

Final Perspective

IGNOU degree delays are frustrating, especially when careers are waiting. But in most cases, the issue is timing and process, not eligibility.

Keep records, apply correctly, and use provisional documents when needed.

This page will be updated whenever IGNOU revises certificate or convocation procedures.

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