IGNOU Project Viva Date: Complete Schedule, Process & Latest Updates
The IGNOU project viva is a crucial step in the evaluation process for many programs, including BCA, MCA, PGDCA, BTS, MTTM, MLIS, BLIS, MSW, and various Diploma courses. Students often feel uncertain about how the viva date is determined, where to find it, and what happens during the evaluation.
This guide explains everything about IGNOU project viva dates, evaluation rules, the step-by-step process, preparation tips, and the latest updates from IGNOU’s official notifications.
This article will help you grasp the entire viva system so you can prepare confidently and avoid last-minute problems.
Understanding the Importance of IGNOU Project Viva
The project viva is a required part of IGNOU’s evaluation system. It serves to:
- Check if the student actually created the project
- Verify understanding of the methodology
- Evaluate how well the student can explain their work
- Confirm originality and authenticity
- Assess practical knowledge related to the topic
In most programs, the viva carries 20 to 40 marks, depending on the course guidelines.
Official IGNOU Project Guidelines:
https://ignou.ac.in/ignou/studentzone/download
Who Must Appear for IGNOU Project Viva?
The viva is mandatory for students enrolled in programs such as:
- BCA / MCA Projects
- BTS / MTTM Field Work Projects
- MSW Practicum & Project Viva
- PGDCA Mini / Main Project Viva
- MLIS / BLIS Project Evaluation
- Diploma and PG Diploma Project Courses
- MAPC Internships / Project Viva
IGNOU may reject the project or withhold the result if a student does not attend the viva.
How IGNOU Decides Project Viva Dates
Viva dates are not set by IGNOU Headquarters. They are fixed by:
- Your Regional Centre (RC)
- Study Centre (SC)
- Internal and external viva panel
The dates depend on:
- Number of project submissions
- Availability of evaluators
- Batch and program size
- Internal academic schedules
This is why viva dates vary from one region to another.
Where to Check Your IGNOU Project Viva Date?
You can find your viva date through any of the following:
1. Regional Centre Official Website
Each RC posts notices in the “Announcements/News” section.
Example RC link format: https://rcxx.ignou.ac.in/
2. Email from Regional Centre
Students often get official emails from the RC after the project is accepted.
3. Phone/Visit to Study Centre
Coordinators usually keep a viva schedule list.
4. WhatsApp/Telegram Groups (Unofficial)
Many RCs have student groups where coordinators share updates.
5. IGNOU Announcements Portal
https://ignou.ac.in/ignou/bulletinboard/announcements/latest
While HQ rarely publishes viva notices, sometimes program-related updates are available.
IGNOU Project Viva Schedule (Typical Cycle)
Though viva dates differ by RC, the general schedule is:
- January–March → For December Project Submissions
- July–September → For June Project Submissions
For project submissions completed early, viva may happen within the next 30 to 45 days.
What Happens Before the Viva Date?
Before your viva date, the RC completes:
- Verification of project format
- Checking originality and declaration
- Sending project to evaluators
- Preparing the viva panel
- Displaying student list and dates
Only after finishing this internal process are viva dates announced.
How to Confirm Your Viva Date With RC
Follow these steps:
- Visit your Regional Centre website
- Check “News/Announcements/Student Corner”
- Look for the project viva schedule PDF
- Match your enrolment number
- Note the date, time, and venue
If you still can’t find it:
- Call your RC
- Send an email (available on RC site)
- Visit your study centre
Official RC Contact Directory:
https://ignou.ac.in/ignou/aboutignou/regional/website
How IGNOU Conducts the Project Viva
The IGNOU viva is conducted either:
- Offline at Study Centre
- Online via Google Meet or Zoom (for some RCs)
The process usually includes:
- Student verification (ID card required)
- Project discussion (10 to 15 minutes)
- Question and answer session
- Marks evaluation
- Report submission by the viva panel
Documents Required on Viva Day
Bring these essential documents:
- IGNOU ID Card
- Original Project Report (hard copy)
- Project Approval Letter (if applicable)
- Project Submission Receipt or Acknowledgement
- Assignment submission proof (if needed)
- Pen and notebook
- Any supporting documents used in your project
If you don’t have these, the RC may postpone your viva.
What Type of Questions Are Asked in IGNOU Project Viva?
Expect questions related to:
1. Project Topic
- Why did you choose this topic?
- What is its practical relevance?
2. Objectives and Problem Statement
3. Research Methodology or Tools Used
4. Data Collection Sources
5. Findings, Results, and Conclusion
6. Your personal contribution
Examiners want to confirm you wrote it on your own.
7. Basic subject knowledge
Sometimes simple theoretical questions will be asked.
Tips to Score High in IGNOU Project Viva
Follow these tips to score well:
- Read your project 2 to 3 times
- Know all diagrams, tables, and graphs
- Practice a brief 2-minute introduction
- Stay calm and confident
- Answer clearly; don’t memorize everything
- Maintain eye contact
- Keep your project file neat and organized
Mistakes like reading from the file or giving unclear answers can lower your marks.
IGNOU Project Viva Marks and Evaluation Criteria
Evaluation includes:
- Presentation skills
- Understanding of the topic
- Clarity of methodology
- Authenticity of work
- Ability to answer questions
- Communication skills
Marks Distribution (Common Pattern):
- Viva Performance: 20 to 40 marks
- Project Report Quality: 60 to 80 marks
Your final project grade is based on the total marks.
What Happens After the Viva?
After you finish the viva:
- The examiner signs the evaluation sheet
- Marks are sent to the Regional Centre
- RC forwards the marks to IGNOU HQ
- Marks are updated in your Grade Card
Check your Grade Card here:
https://gradecard.ignou.ac.in/gradecard/
Mark updates may take 30 to 60 days depending on the RC’s workload.
What If You Miss Your IGNOU Viva Date?
If you miss the viva:
- RC may place you in the next batch
- Delays of 2 to 3 months are possible
- You may need to request the coordinator’s assistance
- IGNOU does not fail you directly
However, missing it repeatedly can delay your program completion.
Latest Updates on IGNOU Project Viva
Recent updates noted across RCs include:
- Many RCs are shifting to offline viva only
- Online viva is allowed only in special cases
- RCs announce viva lists sooner due to high enrollment
- Projects with formatting errors are rejected before the viva
- Viva results are posted more quickly compared to previous years
Latest Notifications:
https://ignou.ac.in/ignou/bulletinboard/announcements/latest
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Where can I check my IGNOU project viva date?
On your Regional Centre website under announcements.
Q2: How long does the IGNOU viva last?
Typically, it lasts about 10 to 15 minutes.
Q3: Is the viva compulsory for project evaluation?
Yes, the viva is mandatory.
Q4: What happens if I fail the viva?
You may be asked to reappear; failing is rare unless all answers are completely incorrect.
Q5: When will my viva marks appear in the Grade Card?
Usually within 30 to 60 days.
Final Thoughts
The IGNOU project viva is not something to fear. With the right preparation and understanding of your project, you can succeed and earn good marks. Since different regions have different schedules, students should regularly check their RC website and have their documents ready.
A confident presentation and clear explanation of your work are essential for success.