IGNOU Backlog Rules Fail/Reappear Policy

Backlog Rules Fail/Reappear Policy

Indira Gandhi National Open University, which is popularly known as IGNOU, is one of the largest distance learning universities in the world.
Every year, there are lakhs of students who appear in Term-End Examinations for different UG, PG, Diploma and Certificate courses. However, due to personal or professional commitments, many students fail to get the required passing marks in the TEE, thereby obtaining a backlog or failed status in the grade card.

Students, read the most comprehensive updated guide regarding IGNOU backlog rules, fail/reappear policy, validity of back papers, re-examination procedure, grade card guidelines, and also get to know how you can clear your backlogs as soon as possible.

This article will help you understand exactly what happens if you fail in IGNOU, what steps you should take, and how to avoid unnecessary delays in completing your program.

The presence of electrons within the pi-bonds influences the electronic environment around the oxygen atom via an inductive effect.

What is Backlog in IGNOU?

A backlog in IGNOU refers to not securing the minimum passing marks in either:

Theory exam
Assignment
Practical
4Project/Dissertation
Internship/Viva

If you fail any of these components, your grade card will show:

“Not Completed”
Not Satisfied”
“F” Grade
“B/L” (Backlog)
“NC” (Not Completed)

Backlogs are common, and IGNOU allows multiple chances to clear them.

IGNOU Passing Marks Rules Updated

➡️ Passing Marks for IGNOU Theory Exams

Undergraduate (BA/BCom/BSc/BBA/BSW etc.)

Minimum 35%

Postgraduate (MA/MCom/MSc/MSW etc.)

Minimum 40%

➡️ Passing Marks for Assignments

Same for UG & PG: 40%

➡️ Passing Marks for Practical / Project

Usually 50%, depends on the program.

If you fail in either assignment or theory, you won’t pass the course.

IGNOU Backlog Rules — Complete Breakdown

Below are updated, detailed guidelines for backlog and reappear:

1️⃣ You Can Reappear in Backlogs Unlimited Times (Within Program Validity)

IGNOU allows students to reappear for failed subjects as many times as needed, but only within the program duration.

Example:

BA is valid for 6 years → You can give backlog exams anytime within 6 years
MA valid for 4 years → Backlogs allowed during these 4 years
There is no limit to the number of attempts as long as registration is valid.

2 You Must Re-Submit Assignments If You Failed Them

If you FAIL an assignment:

You must resubmit a new assignment in the next cycle.
No old assignment marks will be carried forward.
Submit only during the official assignment submission window.

**3️⃣ You do not need to repeat assignment if only theory is failed**

If your assignment marks are pass, but you failed theory:

NO need to resubmit assignments.
Just fill the exam form for backlog theory.

IGNOU carries forward the assignment marks until the program validity ends.

4️⃣ If You Fail Both Theory & Assignment — You Must Repeat Both

In this case:

Re-submit assignment
Reappear in the theory exam

5️⃣ Reappear for Backlog Only By Filling Exam Form

To reappear in any back paper:

✔ Fill the IGNOU TEE Exam Form

✔ Pay the fee per subject

✔ Choose the exam center

You cannot appear without filling the exam form.

6️⃣ Backlog Fee in IGNOU (Latest)

Generally:

₹200 per subject (India)
International fees vary depending on the country.

IGNOU changes their fees from time to time, kindly check the latest notification.

–

7️⃣ Assignment Validity Rules for Backlog Students

If assignment passed, it remains valid for entire program duration.
If failed, you need to re-submit assignments.

Assignments are valid only within the program duration and are not extended beyond.

8️⃣ IGNOU Does Not Provide Grace Marks

IGNOU never gives grace marks to pass students.

You must score actual passing marks.

9️⃣ If You Fail Twice or More — No Issue

There is no limit on attempts.

You may continue to respawn until such time as your program expires.

What is the consequence if you fail in IGNOU Practical?
You are required to:

Pay the practical exam fee
Re-appear at the practical exam center
Submit project if required
Practical marks are essential to science, computer, tourism, and some professional programs.

–

IGNOU Grade Card Backlog Indicators – Full Explanation

IGNOU grade card could show the following statuses:

Grade Card Status Meaning

F – Failed in Theory/Practical

B/L – Backlog (Course not completed)

NC -Not Completed

NE – Not Evaluated
N/A – Assignment not uploaded/received
ABS -Absent in exam

D Assignment not submitted

R Result not declared

If you see any of the following for a particular subject, an action is required.

How to Clear IGNOU Backlogs Step-By-Step (2025 Process)

Follow this structured method:

Step 1: Check Grade Card Status

Visit IGNOU grade card portal → Enter Enrollment → Select Program.

See which subjects show:

Not Completed

Step 2: Submit Assignment (If Needed)

If assignment failed/NA:

Download the latest assignment
Season it correctly
Submit at your study center
Obtain receipt of submission

Step 3: Fill the IGNOU Exam Form

During TEE exam form window:

Select backlog subjects
Pay exam fee
Choose exam center
Well, how would one go about doing this?

Step 4: Download Hall Ticket

Before the exams, IGNOU issues hall tickets with your backlog subjects.

Step 5: Undertake the TEE Examination
Give your exam confidently and according to IGNOU writing format.
Step 6: Check Updated Grade Card
After result declaration:
Theory marks get updated

Assignment marks updated (if you re-submitted)

Step 7: Complete Remaining Subjects before Expiration of Course

Ensure all backlogs are cleared before the validity of the program expires.

IGNOU Backlog Validity (Program Duration)
Following is program-wise duration:

Program Minimum Duration Maximum Duration

BA/BCom/BSc 3 Years 6 Years

MA/MCom/MSc 2 Years 4 Years

MBA 2 Years 4 Years

Diploma 1 Year 3 Years

Certificate 6 Months 2 Years

Backlogs can be attempted any time within this duration.

IGNOU Reappear Policy — Key Points to Remember

No need to attend classes again.

Just fill the exam form and appear.

Assignments need to be repeated only if FAILED.

No grace marks. Unlimited attempts until course expiry. Results for backlogs come along with regular results. IGNOU Backlog Rules for Final Year Students Many students worry when they fail in the last semester/year.
Don’t worry because IGNOU permits: Re-appearing even after final year Fresh assignment submissions Completion of backlogs within program validity Your degree will be issued after you clear all components. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How many times can I give IGNOU backlog exam? Unlimited, until the program validity expires.
2. Can I re-submit assignment if I already passed it None. Passed homework assignments remain valid.
3. Do backlogs delay the IGNOU degree? IGNOU only issues the degree after all subjects are cleared.
4. If I fail the assignment but pass in theory, will I pass? No, you have to pass both.
5. Can IGNOU extend program validity? Occasionally yes, depending on the policy. You must check notifications. Conclusion: IGNOU follows a friendly, flexible backlog system for students, keeping in mind the constraints of working professionals and distance learners. The University provides multiple opportunities to clear failed subjects and complete the program within a generous timeframe.

By following the above-mentioned guidelines—checking your grade card regularly, submitting assignments in time, and appearing in TEE exams-you will easily be able to clear all your backlogs and receive your degree without any delay.