IGNOU Exam Rules and Instructions: Complete Guide for Students
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is one of India’s largest open universities. It offers a wide range of programs including UG, PG, Diploma, Certificate, and Professional courses. Examinations play a key role in the evaluation system and include Term End Exams (TEE), practical exams, project viva, and online assessments.
Many students often have questions such as:
- What are the official rules for IGNOU exams?
- What instructions should be followed during online and offline exams?
- What documents are required?
- What are the consequences of breaking exam rules?
This guide covers all IGNOU exam rules and instructions, practical tips, dos and don’ts, hall conduct, passing marks, preparation strategies, and frequently asked questions. Following these guidelines helps ensure smooth completion of exams and avoids unnecessary penalties or delays.
Official IGNOU Examination Portal: https://exam.ignou.ac.in
Overview of IGNOU Examination System
IGNOU conducts Term End Exams, practical exams, online assessments, and project viva evaluations twice a year:
- June TEE: For courses conducted from January to June
- December TEE: For courses conducted from July to December
The university also holds practical exams for science and technical programs and conducts project viva for programs like BCA, MCA, MSW, MLIS, and PGDCA.
Exams evaluate:
- Theoretical knowledge through Term End Exams
- Practical skills through laboratory or field evaluations
- Application and understanding of projects through viva examinations
Students must follow IGNOU rules closely to maintain fairness, discipline, and academic integrity.
Official Syllabus & Guidelines: https://ignou.ac.in/ignou/studentzone/download
Types of IGNOU Exams
Term End Exams (TEE)
- Conducted twice a year (June and December)
- Duration: Usually 3 hours per paper
- Exam formats include objective, descriptive, or mixed questions
- Usually held offline at exam centers, except for some online courses
Practical Exams
- Laboratory or skill-based evaluations
- Marks are part of the final course assessment
- Conducted at Regional Centres (RCs) or Study Centres (SCs)
- May include oral viva to confirm understanding
Online Exams
- Computer-based exams for selected programs
- Features include secure login, automatic timer, and automated submission
- Rules about webcam, microphone, and technical integrity apply
- Common in IT, computer applications, and professional certification courses
Project Viva / Field Work
- Oral evaluation of student projects or fieldwork
- Evaluates research methodology, findings, and presentation skills
- Conducted by internal or external evaluators at RCs
- Marks contribute to the final program grade
General Exam Rules
All students must follow these rules for smooth conduct:
- Arrive at the exam hall 30 to 45 minutes before the scheduled time
- Bring your IGNOU ID card and admit card/hall ticket
- Follow the seat allocation instructions given by invigilators
- Do not bring prohibited items like mobile phones, books, notes, or electronic devices unless allowed
- Keep silence in the exam hall
- Write your roll number on answer sheets exactly as mentioned
- Submit answer sheets before leaving the hall
- Follow the exam format strictly, whether objective, descriptive, or online submission
Official IGNOU exam rules: https://exam.ignou.ac.in
Instructions for Online Exams
- Ensure a stable internet connection and functioning devices
- Log in 15 to 20 minutes before the exam starts
- Keep your webcam and microphone active for monitoring
- Do not switch tabs or access unauthorized materials
- Complete the exam within the allocated time
- Report technical issues immediately to the exam coordinator
Online exam guidelines: https://exam.ignou.ac.in/online
Instructions for Offline / Practical Exams
- Reach the exam center at least 30 minutes early
- Bring practical reports, lab instruments, and your admit card
- Follow lab safety rules strictly
- Complete all experiments as instructed
- Oral questioning (viva) may be conducted to evaluate knowledge
- Submit practical reports and lab sheets after evaluation
Practical exam guidelines: https://ignou.ac.in/ignou/studentzone/download
Documents Required for Exams
- IGNOU ID Card
- Admit Card / Hall Ticket
- Lab / Practical Reports (if applicable)
- Project Reports / Field Work documentation
- Proof of assignment submission
- Lab instruments or personal kit (for practical exams)
Admit Card Portal: https://ignouhall.ignou.ac.in
Dos and Don’ts During Exams
Dos:
- Arrive early at the exam venue
- Bring all required documents
- Follow invigilator instructions
- Write clearly and neatly
- Stay calm and focused
Don’ts:
- Do not cheat or copy
- Do not carry mobile phones, smart watches, or gadgets
- Avoid communicating with other students
- Do not leave the exam hall without permission
- Avoid tampering with answer sheets or lab reports
Exam Hall Code of Conduct
- Sit only in assigned seats
- Maintain silence at all times
- Raise your hand to ask questions
- Keep your desk and surroundings clean
- Submit answer sheets properly
Violations may lead to cancellation of the exam, disciplinary action, or debarment.
Consequences of Violating Exam Rules
- Use of unfair means → Exam cancellation, marks zeroed
- Leaving hall early without permission → Penalty
- Carrying mobile or electronic devices → Confiscation and possible disqualification
- Impersonation or malpractice → Legal and academic action
IGNOU Passing Marks
- Minimum passing marks are usually 40% for theory and practical exams
- Some programs may have different thresholds; always check the course syllabus
- Failing one component may require re-examination in the next cycle
Grade Card Portal: https://gradecard.ignou.ac.in/gradecard
Preparation Tips
- Read the syllabus and past year question papers
- Practice previous assignments and project reports
- Prepare for practical exams in advance
- Keep all documents and materials ready
- Arrive early to avoid last-minute stress
- Revise key formulas, definitions, and lab procedures
- Take mock tests if available
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I appear without my admit card?
No, the admit card is mandatory.
Q2: What if I arrive late?
Late students may be allowed only within the first 30 minutes at the discretion of the invigilator.
Q3: Can I use a calculator?
Only if allowed in the exam instructions.
Q4: How do I report technical issues in online exams?
Contact the exam coordinator immediately.
Q5: What are the passing marks for IGNOU?
The minimum is 40%, but check course-specific rules.
Latest Updates & Notifications
- IGNOU advises students to check RC / SC websites regularly
- Online exam protocols have been updated for security and anti-cheating measures
- Practical and project viva schedules may vary by RC
- Students must submit lab and project reports on time
Latest Notifications: https://ignou.ac.in/ignou/bulletinboard/announcements/latest
Final Thoughts
Following IGNOU exam rules and instructions is crucial for successfully completing programs. Proper preparation, punctuality, carrying required documents, and sticking to exam protocols help ensure smooth conduct and avoid academic penalties. Students should always check official portals, regional centre notifications, and program-specific instructions to stay updated.