IGNOU MPSE-013 Project Submission Guidelines

IGNOU MPSE-013

Introduction

If you are a student in the IGNOU MPS / MA Political Science programme and your course covers MPSE‑013 (Project / dissertation / field work component), it’s critical that you adhere to the guidelines of the university meticulously. A project is not a secondary task—it has lots of importance in your final assessment, and any formatting error, process error, or documentation error can result in rejection or holdup. This article is a comprehensive, guide to make you aware of each step, steer clear of pitfalls, and submit with confidence.

In this guide, you will discover:

What is MPSE‑013 and why you should care
Timeline & deadlines
Topic choice & supervisor
Synopsis / project proposal
Project report structure & format
Ethical, plagiarism, and originality considerations
Online submission process & documents required
Avoid rejection tips
FAQs
Checklist
Sample flow

Let’s get going.

1. What is MPSE‑013 and Why It Matters

MPSE‑013 is a project / research module in the MA Political Science (MPS) programme (or equivalent) at IGNOU.

It is designed to provide you with hands‑on experience of research: choosing a topic, collecting data (survey, interviews, secondary sources), analysis, interpretation, and writing up results.
The project has credit value (say 8 credits or equivalent) and counts towards your final score.
The IGNOU system typically will only release your second-year result after your project has been assessed.

Due to its significance, you need to follow the official instructions to the letter so that your effort is accepted and graded.

2. Timeline, Deadlines & Submission Slots

It is important to know when to submit what.

2.1 Submission Windows & Deadlines

IGNOU receives project / dissertation / internship / practicum files online by 31 May 2025 for the June 2025 TEE session.
For other sessions, you would have to check the portal or your regional centre for deadlines.
Note: Incomplete submissions will be deleted after the last date.
Reports received through email (outside the portal) are usually not entertained.

It is recommended to submit at least 10–15 days in advance of the deadline to catch any last-minute problems.

2.2 Validity & Re‑submission Rules

For most IGNOU programmes, your approved project proposal has validity for some duration (e.g. till two submission slots). If you miss both, you might have to present a new proposal.
In case your submitted project is found unsuitable or sent back for revision, you might be required to redo and resubmit as needed.

3. Topic Selection & Supervisor / Guide

Selecting an appropriate topic and a suitable guide (supervisor) is imperative.

3.1 Topic Selection

Select a topic area of political science / governance / public administration / policy / comparative politics / international relations, etc., that is feasible with data and interests.
Make sure the subject is researchable under time, resource, and data limitations.
Don’t choose very broad or ambiguous topics. Be precise (e.g. “Social media influence on youth voting behaviour in Delhi” rather than “Social media and politics”.

3.2 Guide / Supervisor

Your guide ideally should be a faculty or academic counsellor at your study centre (or someone who is known by your RC).
In some cases, direct relatives or blood relations are not permitted as guides (in most IGNOU projects) — check with your centre.
You require the guide’s consent letter and their biodata / credentials to be sent along with your synopsis / proposal.
The guide is required to sign the originality certificate and the final project.

4. Synopsis / Project Proposal / Approval

This is your “blueprint” for your research. It is to be approved before you start detailed work.

4.1 What is to go into the Synopsis / Proposal

Your proposal typically will have:

Title of the Project
Introduction / Background / Rationale — Why do we need to do the study?
Research Problem / Questions / Hypotheses
Objectives of the Study
Scope & Limitations
Literature Review (brief)
Methodology — Research design, data sources (primary / secondary), sample, tools, techniques, analysis plan
Timeframe / Work Plan (if needed)
References / Bibliography
Appendices (if any) — e.g. questionnaire, interview schedule
Guide’s consent letter + biodata
Filled project proposal proforma (provided by IGNOU)
Declaration / Certificate of originality (if needed)

Use A4 size, double spacing (or according to your style guide), and maintain good margins. ([YUMPU][1])

4.2 Submission & Approval Process

You send the synopsis / project proposal to your Study Centre / Programme In‑Charge / RC following the proforma. ([IGNOU PROJECT][7])
Always keep a copy of the synopsis you have sent and the proforma. ([IGNOU PROJECT][7])
The centre / RC / university will scrutinize it and accept it or return suggestions/modifications. ([YUMPU][1])
When requested changes, you submit again with corrections, occasionally with the earlier rejected version and comments. ([ignoufriend.com][6])
After approval, you will receive a project number / proposal number which you need to include in the final submission. ([YUMPU][1])

Take care: In case your proposal is not duly approved, the final project can be rejected totally.

5. Structure & Format of the Project Report

After your proposal is accepted, you go to full writing. This is the most important section—format strictness counts a great deal.

5.1 General Format Rules

Write on A4 size paper, typed or word-processed (computer).
Use Times New Roman (or common serif font) size 12 (or as specified by your course handbook).
Line spacing: 1.5 (or as recommended).
Margins: 1 inch (2.54 cm) on all four sides.
Printing: Usually on one side only (i.e. single‑sided).
Page numbering: in bottom centre or bottom right (depending on your style guide).
Binding: Spiral or soft binding is acceptable. For older programmes, a bound copy plus soft copy on CD / USB was required.
Tables, figures, charts must be labelled and cited properly.
Use clear headings, subheadings, and numbering to structure sections and subsections.

5.2 Sections / Sequence of Contents

Your project report should usually have the following sequence (there may be minor variation in some courses):

Title Page / Cover Page

Title of project
Student’s name & enrolment number
Programme / course name
Study Centre / Regional Centre
Supervisor / Guide’s name
Date of submission (month & year)

Declaration / Certification / Certificate of Originality

A declaration that this is your original work (not previously submitted elsewhere)
Student sign and guide sign

Supervisor’s Approval / Certificate
Acknowledgment

Gratitude and thanks to guide, participants, institutions, etc.

Executive Summary / Abstract

Brief summary (200–300 words) addressing objectives, methodology, findings, conclusions, recommendations

Table of Contents (with page numbers)
List of Tables, Figures, Abbreviations (if applicable)
Introduction / Background / Context

Introduction to topic, significance, rationale
Research questions / problem

Literature Review

Summary of existing studies / theories / prior research
Knowledge gaps your research seeks to bridge

Objectives / Hypotheses
- General and specific research objectives
- Hypotheses (if your research involves them)
Methodology
- Research approach
- Sources of data (primary / secondary)
- Sampling (if necessary)
- Instruments / tools (questionnaires, interview schedules)

Data collection process
Data analysis methods / programs

Analysis & Interpretation / Findings
- Show your data (tables, graphs, descriptive, inferential)
- Interpret findings in light of objectives / hypotheses
Conclusion & Recommendations
- Summarize key findings
- Refer back to objectives

Provide policy or practical recommendations, suggestions for further research

Limitations of Study / Scope for Future Work
References / Bibliography
- Cited sources in a uniform citation style (APA, MLA, Harvard, etc.)
Appendices (if any)
- Questionnaire, interview transcripts, additional tables, maps
Annexures / Supporting Documents
- Approved proposal, guide’s approval, additional documents

Certain programs may have “Management summary” or “Foreword” or “Organization profile” sections as per program.
([ignouproject.net][9])

Ensure your report is clear, well‑organized, and flows smoothly from introduction to conclusion. Use clear, concise language; do not use jargon, unless unavoidable.

6. Word Limit, Page Count & Allowances

IGNOU usually leaves some margin of flexibility, but you should remain near the prescribed limits.

Most IGNOU project guidelines recommend about 8,000 to 10,000 words (not including appendices) for project/dissertation reports.
Some courses permit ±10% flexi.
For some long work (dissertation), word limits may go up (e.g. 15,000+), but see your individual course / syllabus.
Typically 40–100 pages of print (depending on data, tables, appendices).
Do not have excessively large appendices or very long transcripts—they may balloon and distract. Use appendices sparingly.

7. Ethics, Plagiarism & Originality

The most important aspect in your project is to be academically honest.

7.1 Rules on Plagiarism

IGNOU requires that the project should be original and free of plagiarism. ([ignoucourse.com][5])
Use software for detecting plagiarism (Turnitin, PlaySpan, etc.) to compare similarity index. It is desirable to keep it below 15–20%.
Accurately quote, paraphrase, and cite all your sources to prevent academic malpractice.

7.2 Ethical Considerations

If your project deals with human subjects (interviews, surveys), take required consent and maintain confidentiality.
Be truthful in data (don’t fake or misrepresent).
Make limitations public and don’t make more of your results than justified.
Always sign the declaration / certificate of originality (with your guide).

Breaking these rules can result in rejection of your project or further disciplinary measures.

8. Online Submission Procedure & Required Documents

As of recent cycles, IGNOU has gone to online mode for project submission. Below is the step-by-step process and document check.

8.1 Submission Portal & Link

For June 2025 TEE, the portal is https://onlineproject.ignou.ac.in/projectjun25/
The project portal occasionally changes every cycle; always use the latest portal link for your session
The old portal consists of instructions such as “Project Report Upload (Instruction)” pages.

8.2 Fee Payment

IGNOU has made Project Evaluation Fee compulsory (w.e.f. Jan 2023 admission cycle).
Fee structure:
For a project of up to 4 credits: ₹300
For a project of more than 4 credits: ₹500 ([onlineproject.ignou.ac.in][4])
The fee is paid along with your TEE exam form; proof of payment must be uploaded / attached with project submission.
Without paying the fee, the project might not be accepted.

8.3 Documents to Upload / Attach

You will usually require:

Project Report (PDF) — the finalized one
Original approved proposal / synopsis
Bio‑data / credentials of Guide / Supervisor
Guide’s consent letter
Declaration / Certificate of Originality signed by student & guide
Receipt / proof of payment of project evaluation fee
Any other forms / proforma your course may need

Ensure scans are legible (not blurry), proper sequence, correctly oriented (portrait), readable pages. ([onlineproject.ignou.ac.in][3])

8.4 Upload & Acknowledgment

Login and upload documents as required in the given fields.
On upload, you will receive an acknowledgment / confirmation slip / receipt (keep it for reference).
Portal will reject incomplete submission or missing documents, particularly after the due date. ([onlineproject.ignou.ac.in][4])
IGNOU does not entertain correspondence for incomplete submissions past deadlines. ([onlineproject.ignou.ac.in][3])

8.5 Post Submission / Evaluation

Your project, after submission, is sent for evaluation to IGNOU examiners / evaluators.
The viva‑voce (if your course necessitates) is held at the Study Centre or according to RC guidelines. Students are advised to contact their RC / study centre. ([onlineproject.ignou.ac.in][2])
On successful assessment, your project marks are revised, and your final outcome (year two) is published.

9. Tips & Common Pitfalls (Avoid These!)

To keep your project accepted and awarded good marks, beware of:

Missing or incorrect formatting

Inaccurate margins, spacing, font, page numbering
Tables/figures without labels
Unstructured layout, rogue sections

Proposal approval problems

Lumping project report without authorized synopsis
Absence of guide’s permission / biodata in proposal

Excessive plagiarism / similarity

Large chunks copied without reference
Failing to paraphrase or quote

Poor quality scan or disordered pages in upload

Poor-quality scans, rotated pages, absent pages

Missing or incorrect documents

Failure to upload proof of payment of fee
Lack of declaration form, guide’s signature, etc.

Late submission

Waiting until the very last minute
Portal closes after deadline — your data can be lost

Overcrowded appendices

Extremely lengthy transcripts / dumps of data that can distract

Weak linkage between objectives, findings, conclusions

Make sure your conclusions address your aims directly
Don’t make recommendations if the data doesn’t justify them

Overlooking specific requirements of your programme

Certain programmes have additional sections (e.g. “Industry profile,” “Management summary”)
Always refer cross-check your course handbook / programme guide

Inadequate language, grammar, clarity
- Write in formal academic style, plain sentences

Proofread for spelling, punctuation, consistency

If you apply these carefully, your submission stands a much better chance of acceptance without demand for rewrites.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I submit my project by email instead of portal?
A: Generally no. IGNOU explicitly states that reports received via email are not considered. ([onlineproject.ignou.ac.in][4])

Q2. What if my guide is unavailable / refuses to sign?
A: You need to arrange for a legitimate guide who agrees and signs the proper forms. In the absence of guide signature and approval, your proposal / report will be declined.

Q3. How do I handle it if my project is turned down?
A: You will probably receive comments / feedback. Make changes accordingly and resubmit in next submission window (or according to RC instructions). ([ignoufriend.com][6])

Q4. How long does it take for evaluation?
A: It differs. Some students indicate delays of months between getting project marks updated. ([Reddit][11])

Q5. Can I use secondary data only (no field survey)?
A: Yes, if your subject allows it and you explain it in methodology. But primary data are generally preferred if possible.

Q6. Can I resubmit a project in next cycle?
A: Yes, but ensure your proposal is still valid or re-approved, as per programme rules.

Q7. Is viva compulsory to appear?
A: If your programme has a viva, yes. You should refer to your course handbook and RC guidelines. ([onlineproject.ignou.ac.in][2])

11. Sample Flow & Timeline

Here’s a sample timeline that you can follow (modify based on your registration date):

Phase Timeline | Activity
Month 1–2 After first semester / early second year Choose topic, refer to faculty, check feasibility
Month 2–3 Prepare draft synopsis Write introduction, objectives, methodology, literature review
Month 3–4 File synopsis + proposal with RC / Study Centre Attach guide’s approval, biodata, forms required
Month 4–5 Wait for feedback / approval Re-submit and re-write if necessary
Month 5–9 Data collection & analysis Carry out surveys, interviews, secondary data research
Month 9–11 Writing complete project report Finish all sections, editing, proofing
Month 11 Final scan project, prepare PDF & documents Verify clarity, sequence, signatures
Month 12 (before deadline) Upload / submit online through portal Save acknowledgment / slip
After submission Wait for assessment, reply to questions (if any) Attend viva if necessary

This is only a guideline. Modify according to your academic session, regional centre timelines, and pace.

12. Project Submission Checklist (Prior to Uploading)

Proposal accepted with number
Guide’s consent letter & biodata submitted
Declaration / originality certificate signed by student & guide
Final project report in PDF
All sections are present & in order
Page numbering, contents, figures, tables, etc., correctly labeled
Good quality scans (clear, correct orientation)
Proof of payment of evaluation fee
Backup copies (soft & hard)
Late submission buffer (upload at least a few days in advance)
Save acknowledgement / receipt after upload

13. Final Tips & Best Practices

Don’t procrastinate—start early
Maintain contact with your guide; receive regular feedback
Maintain a working log / diary of research steps
Use reference / citation software (Zotero, Mendeley) to avoid citation errors
Be disciplined with data collection and cleaning
Re‑read the IGNOU programme guide / project handbook for your specific course
Take printouts or soft backups of all documents
If any issues arise (portal down, RC delays), contact your Regional Centre / Project Section promptly
Remain calm and systematic—most rejections are due to avoidable format or procedural mistakes