IGNOU Fees & Payments – Programme Fees, Exam Fees, Refunds & Common Issues

IGNOU fees are generally affordable, but the payment process itself often confuses students. Many issues arise not because fees are high, but because payments are made at the wrong time, under the wrong category, or without proper follow-up.

This page explains how IGNOU fees work, what you need to pay and when, and what to do if something goes wrong.

Types of Fees in IGNOU (Simple Breakdown)

IGNOU does not charge one single fee. Depending on where you are in your journey, you may pay different fees.

Common types include:

  • Programme fees (during admission or re-registration)
  • Exam fees (for Term-End Examinations)
  • Project or practical evaluation fees
  • Late fees (in specific cases)

Understanding which fee applies when avoids most problems.

IGNOU Programme Fees

Programme fees:

  • Vary depending on the course and level
  • Are paid during admission and re-registration
  • Are paid online only

Once paid and confirmed, programme fees are usually non-refundable. This is why programme selection should never be rushed.

IGNOU Exam Fees

Exam fees are paid separately from programme fees.

As per IGNOU rules:

  • ₹200 per theory course
  • Paid at the time of filling the exam form
  • Payment is mandatory for each exam cycle
  • Exam fees are not refundable or adjustable

Missing an exam after paying does not entitle you to a refund.

Project and Practical Fees

Some programmes include:

  • Projects
  • Practicals
  • Viva components

For these:

  • Additional fees apply based on credit weightage
  • Fees are paid along with the exam form
  • Evaluation does not start until payment is confirmed

This often explains why project results appear late.

How to Pay IGNOU Fees

IGNOU accepts fees online only, usually through:

  • Debit card
  • Credit card
  • Net banking
  • UPI (where available)

Always:

  • Complete payment in one session
  • Wait for confirmation
  • Download or screenshot the receipt

That receipt is your proof if anything goes wrong.

IGNOU Fee Payment Failed – What to Do

Payment failures are stressful but not uncommon. Most payment issues surface during exam cycles, especially when payments go through but records do not update.

If payment fails:

  • Do not retry immediately multiple times
  • Check whether money was actually deducted
  • Wait for bank reversal if needed

If money is deducted but status shows unpaid:

  • Keep the transaction reference number
  • Wait a reasonable period
  • Then contact the concerned IGNOU support channel

Repeated payments often create more confusion, not faster resolution.

IGNOU Fee Refund Rules (Important Reality Check)

Refunds are limited and rule-bound.

In most cases:

  • Programme fees are refundable only if admission is cancelled within the allowed window
  • Exam fees are never refundable
  • Project and practical fees are usually non-refundable once evaluation starts

If you are unsure, assume refunds are difficult, not automatic.

Fee Exemptions and Support (If Applicable)

Some students may be eligible for:

  • SC/ST fee exemptions
  • Government scholarships
  • Institutional support schemes

These must be applied during admission, not later. Retroactive adjustments are rare.

Common Fee-Related Mistakes Students Make

These come up every cycle:

  • Paying fees under the wrong programme
  • Missing payment deadlines
  • Losing receipts
  • Assuming fees auto-carry forward
  • Paying twice due to panic

Most fee issues are administrative, not punitive—but they still take time to fix.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I pay IGNOU fees offline?

No. IGNOU accepts fees online only.

What if my fee payment shows “pending”?

Wait before retrying. Status updates can be delayed.

Can IGNOU adjust exam fees to the next cycle?

No. Exam fees are not adjustable.

Do I need to pay fees every year?

Yes, through re-registration for multi-year programmes.

Will IGNOU remind me about fee deadlines?

Sometimes—but responsibility ultimately lies with the student.

Final Perspective

IGNOU fees are straightforward once you understand the structure. Most problems arise from haste, assumptions, or incomplete records.

Keep receipts, respect timelines, and avoid panic payments.

This page will be updated if IGNOU revises fee structures or payment systems.

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