IGNOU Degree Dispatch Delay: Reasons & Solutions
Completing a degree from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is an important achievement. However, many students experience delays in getting their original degree certificate even after finishing all exams and assignments. This can lead to confusion, anxiety, and difficulties with further studies, government jobs, or private employment.
This guide explains why delays in IGNOU degree dispatch occur, how the official dispatch process works, and practical solutions students can use to track, resolve, and prevent these delays.
Understanding the IGNOU Degree Dispatch System
IGNOU issues degree certificates after students successfully complete their program and participate in the annual convocation. Students need to apply for their degree through the official convocation portal. After verification, the university prints and sends the degree via Speed Post to the registered address.
Official Convocation Portal:
https://onlineservices.ignou.ac.in/convocation/
Degree Dispatch Status Portal:
https://onlineservices.ignou.ac.in/idms/
Student Service Information:
https://www.ignou.ac.in/pages/65
How Much Time Does IGNOU Take to Dispatch Degrees?
Typically, IGNOU dispatches degrees within 2 to 3 months after convocation. In some cases, it may take up to 6 months due to factors like workload, verification delays, or postal issues.
While delays are common, they usually aren’t a cause for panic if students follow up properly.
Major Reasons for IGNOU Degree Dispatch Delay
One common reason for delay is not applying for the degree through the convocation portal. IGNOU does not automatically send degrees unless students complete the convocation registration and pay the required fee.
Convocation registration link:
https://onlineservices.ignou.ac.in/convocation/StudentRegistration.aspx
Another issue is incomplete academic records. If assignments, project marks, or term-end exam results are missing or not updated, IGNOU will not process the degree.
Students should regularly check their academic status here:
https://www.ignou.ac.in/pages/65
An incorrect or outdated postal address is also a frequent cause of delays. Degrees sent to the wrong addresses are often returned or lost.
Mistakes in name spelling, enrollment number, or program code can also postpone printing and dispatch.
Sometimes, convocation backlogs or limited dispatch batches cause unavoidable delays.
Finally, delivery delays by India Post, especially in rural or remote areas, can slow down receipt even after dispatch.
How to Check IGNOU Degree Dispatch Status Online
Students can easily track their degree status online.
Steps:
- Visit https://onlineservices.ignou.ac.in/idms/
- Enter your Enrollment Number
- Select your Program Code
- Submit to view status
If dispatched, the portal may show a Speed Post tracking number.
What to Do If Degree Is Dispatched but Not Received
Start by using the Speed Post tracking number on India Post’s website.
If tracking shows delivery issues, contact your local post office with the tracking ID.
If the issue persists, reach out to your IGNOU Regional Centre or email the Student Service Centre with full details.
IGNOU Student Service Centre details:
https://www.ignou.ac.in/pages/9
How to Apply for a Duplicate IGNOU Degree
If your degree is lost, returned, or never received, IGNOU allows students to apply for a duplicate degree.
You must submit:
- Application for duplicate degree
- Copy of marksheets
- Enrollment proof
- FIR or affidavit (if lost)
- Required fee
Details are available through IGNOU Regional Centres and official notices on:
https://www.ignou.ac.in
Tips to Avoid Degree Dispatch Delay
Always apply for convocation on time.
Keep your postal address updated.
Check your grade card and completion status regularly.
Save receipts and confirmation pages.
Monitor the degree dispatch portal periodically.
Conclusion
Delays in IGNOU degree dispatch are common but manageable. Most delays happen due to incomplete applications, address mistakes, issues with academic records, or postal delays. By using the official IGNOU portals, tracking your status regularly, and communicating with the Regional Centre when needed, you can ensure timely receipt of your degree certificate.
Helpful official links once again:
Convocation Portal:
https://onlineservices.ignou.ac.in/convocation/
Degree Status Portal:
https://onlineservices.ignou.ac.in/idms/
Student Services:
https://www.ignou.ac.in/pages/65