What Students Should Know Now That IGNOU Exams Have Begun
Introduction
IGNOU term-end examinations are significant for every student enrolled in any program. Whether you are pursuing a BA, BCA, MCA, MA, MBA, B.Com, M.Com, or any diploma or certificate course, the exam period can feel overwhelming. This is especially true when the schedule tightens and submissions pile up.
As the exams start, students often struggle with last-minute preparation, confusion about hall tickets, exam centers, answer sheet formats, and post-exam steps like checking results and correcting grade cards.
To help, this guide covers everything students need to know once IGNOU exams officially begin. It includes exam-day rules, important documents, common mistakes, and preparation strategies that still matter during ongoing exams.
Essential Things to Know Once IGNOU Exams Start
1. Carry All Mandatory Documents
Every student must bring the following to the exam center:
- IGNOU Hall Ticket / Admit Card (printed copy)
- IGNOU ID Card (physical or digital downloaded from the Samarth portal)
- Valid Government ID (Aadhaar / Voter ID / PAN)
- Extra pens and stationery (black or blue pen)
If you are missing any detail or if something is incorrect, the center may allow you in, but only after verification. So, arrive early.
2. Reach Your Exam Centre at Least 30 Minutes Before Reporting Time
IGNOU exam centers have strict seating arrangements. Students who arrive late may face:
- Delayed entry
- Refusal if the paper has already begun
- Stress and time loss
Arriving 30 to 40 minutes early helps you avoid last-minute issues.
3. Check Your Exam Schedule Carefully
Even after exams begin, IGNOU sometimes:
- Updates schedules
- Changes dates
- Alters center instructions
Always double-check from the official link:
👉 https://exam.ignou.ac.in
4. Keep Track of Your Course Codes
IGNOU TEE papers are identified by course codes, not subject names.
For example:
- BCA students: MCS-011, BCS-012
- MA students: MPA-11, MEG-01
- MCA students: MCS-041, MCS-042
Always double-check the course code on your question paper before starting.
5. Understand the Answer Sheet Format
IGNOU answer booklets follow these rules:
- Write the course code clearly on the first page
- Use only blue or black pen
- Avoid writing personal details inside
- Number your answers exactly as in the question paper
Writing your roll number or phone number inside the booklet can lead to disqualification.
6. Avoid Rough Work Inside the Main Answers
Use the last pages for rough calculations or diagrams. This helps examiners evaluate your work clearly and improves presentation.
7. Follow the Word Limit
IGNOU evaluates based on clarity and content quality. General word limit guidance:
- Short answers: 150 words
- Long answers: 300 to 500 words
Exceeding word limits may result in point deductions for lack of structure.
8. Don’t Leave the Exam Hall Early
Even if you finish early, stay for at least 1.5 hours because:
- You might recall important points
- Rechecking avoids silly mistakes
- Adding diagrams, flowcharts, or examples can improve your marks
During-Exam Strategy for Maximum Marks
1. Read the Entire Question Paper First
Spend the first 10 minutes scanning:
- Section A (compulsory questions)
- Section B (optional questions)
Choose the ones you can answer confidently.
2. Use Proper Headings and Diagrams
IGNOU examiners prefer:
- Headings
- Subheadings
- Bullets
- Flowcharts
- Diagrams
These items enhance clarity and earn you better marks.
3. Don’t Write Outside the Margins
Anything outside the margins is often not evaluated.
4. Stick to the Time Management Rule
Divide your 3 hours as follows:
- 1 hour – Long answers
- 1 hour – Medium answers
- 30 minutes – Short answers
- 30 minutes – Revision
What to Do After Finishing the Exam
1. Keep Your Question Paper Safely
Many students throw away the question paper, which is a big mistake. You will need it later to:
- Verify answers
- Understand expected marks
- Prepare for backlogs
2. Check Exam Updates Regularly
After exams, keep checking these official links:
- Result: https://termendresult.ignou.ac.in
- Grade Card: https://gradecard.ignou.ac.in
- Assignment Status: https://admission.ignou.ac.in/changeadmdata/StatusAssignment.asp
3. Know That IGNOU Results Take Time
IGNOU results are released in phases:
- Some courses update in 20 to 30 days
- Some take 45 to 60 days
- Backlogs and practical-based courses may take longer
Do not panic if your result isn’t updated immediately.
4. Verify Your Grade Card After Results
Grade cards often take time to sync. Check:
- Assignment marks
- Theory marks
- Practical marks
- Project marks
If anything is missing, wait 10 to 15 days, as updates happen gradually.
5. Apply for Revaluation If Needed
If you believe your marks are lower than expected, you can apply for revaluation.
Official link:
👉 https://onlineservices.ignou.ac.in/reval
Revaluation results take around 30 to 45 days.
Common Problems IGNOU Students Face During Exams
1. Wrong Exam Centre Confusion
Always double-check your hall ticket because center codes change sometimes.
2. Misprint or Missing Questions
If any page is missing or unclear, report it immediately.
3. Lost Hall Ticket
You can re-download it anytime from:
👉 https://hall_ticket.ignou.ac.in
4. Invalid ID Card
Download a fresh ID card from the Samarth portal.
Tips for Students Giving Their First IGNOU Exam
- Solve previous year question papers
- Write in simple, clear language
- Do not copy assignment answers into the exam booklet
- Follow IGNOU’s “point-to-point” answer rule
- Maintain neat handwriting
- Use real-life examples wherever relevant
- Highlight key points
These small steps can significantly boost your scores.
Final Advice for IGNOU Students
The IGNOU exam season may feel stressful, but with the right preparation, calmness, and clarity about the rules, you can perform well. Remember:
- Carry your documents
- Read instructions carefully
- Write structured answers
- Manage time wisely
- Review after writing
Most importantly, trust yourself. IGNOU exams are designed to test understanding, not memorization.