IGNOU Fee Exemption Scheme for SC/ST Learners
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) · All India
| Scheme Name | IGNOU Fee Exemption Scheme for SC/ST Learners |
| Provided By | Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) |
| Eligibility Summary | UG, Certificate, Diploma · SC, ST · Family income up to ₹2.5 Lakh/year |
Status check
The previous application cycle (2025–26) closed on 15 September 2026. The upcoming 2026–27 cycle is expected to open soon. We will update the links here as soon as the official notification is released.
View active scholarships you can apply for today →About the Program
This scheme provides a 50% fee waiver to eligible SC/ST students enrolled in specific undergraduate, certificate, and diploma programs at IGNOU. It aims to enhance access to education for marginalized communities.
Benefits & Financial Support
50% of the programme fee. Registration fee and University Development Fee are not covered.
50% of the programme fee. Registration fee and University Development Fee are not covered.
Fee exemption/reimbursement of 50% of the tuition fees for eligible programmes.
Eligibility Criteria & Income Limit
| Education Level | UG, Certificate, Diploma |
| Course / Stream | Relevant courses |
| Income Limit | Up to ₹2.5 Lakh/year |
| Category / Caste | SC, ST |
| Domicile State | All India |
Mandatory Documents Checklist
- ✓Aadhaar Card
- ✓Income Certificate (from competent authority)
- ✓Caste/Category Certificate (SC/ST)
- ✓Proof of IGNOU Admission (ID Card)
- ✓Academic Marksheets & Certificates (10th, 12th, etc.)
- ✓Passport-size Photos
Selection Process
- —
Recipients are selected based on meeting the eligibility criteria and successful verification of submitted documents
- —
The scholarships are sometimes offered on a first-cum-first-serve basis.
Renewal Policy
Eligible SC/ST students who received fee exemption in earlier admission cycles are also eligible for fee exemption when re-registering for the same specified programmes.
How to Apply Online
Applications are submitted online via Online. Complete eKYC, upload scanned documents, and submit before the closing date.
- 1
Enroll in an eligible undergraduate, certificate, or diploma programme at IGNOU.
- 2
During the admission cycle, apply online through the IGNOU admission portal.
- 3
Submit all required documents, including valid SC/ST and Income Certificates.
- 4
The fee waiver is granted upon successful verification of eligibility.
Common Questions (FAQs)
Who is eligible for the IGNOU SC/ST Fee Exemption Scheme?
Indian citizens belonging to Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) categories, enrolled in specified undergraduate, certificate, or diploma programs at IGNOU, with an annual family income below ₹2.5 lakh, are eligible.
What does the IGNOU SC/ST Fee Exemption Scheme cover?
The scholarship covers 50% of the programme fee for eligible students. Please note that registration fees and University Development Fees are not included in this waiver.
How can I apply for the IGNOU SC/ST Fee Exemption Scheme?
Eligible students can apply online through the IGNOU admission portal (ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in) during the admission cycle by submitting the necessary caste and income certificates along with other required documents.
Similar Opportunities You Can Apply For Today
Khelo India Sports Scholarship Scheme
Applications OpenMinistry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India
Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)
Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India
LIC Golden Jubilee Scholarship
Applications OpenLIC Golden Jubilee Foundation
ONGC Sports Scholarship Scheme
Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC)
Discover More
Legal Disclaimer
IndiaScholarships.in attempts to provide accurate information manually curated from official sources. Scholarship details, timelines, and eligibility can change without notice as per the provider's discretion. Applying for a scholarship does not guarantee selection. Always verify all information on the official Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) website before final submission.