IGNOU PG Diploma Development Studies: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Maidan Garhi, New DelhiOpen UniversityEstd 1985NAAC Grade A++
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Collegedunia Team

Content Curator | Updated 3+ months ago

The Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies (PGDDVS) is a one-year programme offered by Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) through the Open Distance Learning (ODL) mode under the School of Extension and Development Studies (SOEDS). The programme is designed to bridge the gap between the need for professional leaders and traditional courses available in the developmental sector, imparting quality education and training in development studies. It covers development theories, dynamics of development, issues and challenges, research methodology, development in India, and gender and development. The total programme fee is Rs. 7,000 plus applicable registration and development fees, with no entrance exam required. The programme is popular among development professionals, NGO workers, government officials, and fresh graduates seeking a career in the development sector.

Admissions for the January 2026 session are currently open. The last date for submission of the application form for ODL programmes (except certificate and semester-based programmes) is 30th March 2026. Candidates can apply online through the IGNOU admission portal at ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in.

Since PGDDVS is offered exclusively in Distance/ODL mode, it is available through all IGNOU Regional Centres across India. The programme is accessible from all major regional centres including Hyderabad, Karnal, Shimla, Jammu, Bangalore, Bhopal, Pune, Imphal, Shillong, Aizwal, Port Blair, Kohima, Bhubaneswar, Khanna, Jaipur, Gangtok, Chennai, Agartala, Lucknow, Kolkata, Itanagar, Srinagar, Dehradun, Ranchi, Vijayawada, Raipur, Nagpur, Jorhat, Delhi, Guwahati, Trivandrum, Jabalpur, Rajkot, Koraput, Siliguri, Darbhanga, Aligarh, Varanasi, Mumbai, Patna, Chandigarh, Panaji, Bhagalpur, Vatakara, Visakhapatnam, Bijapur, Saharsa, Deoghar, Jodhpur, and Ahmedabad.

Key Points

  • PGDDVS is designed for both development professionals already working in the sector and fresh graduates seeking to enter the development field.
  • The programme covers 6 courses totalling 36 credits, with a strong focus on research methodology and gender and development.
  • The programme is offered in English medium only.
  • The maximum duration to complete the programme is 3 years from the date of registration.
  • IGNOU degrees and diplomas are recognised by all member institutions of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
  • The programme is available through all IGNOU Regional Centres across India, making it one of the most widely accessible development studies programmes in the country.
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IGNOU Latest Updates and News

16 Sep, 2026 IGNOU July 2026 Session re-registration deadline has been extended to Sept 30, 2026, @onlinerr.ignou.ac.in, for all ODL and Online programs. Read News.

16 Sep, 2026 IGNOU July 2026 Session registration deadline has been extended to Sept 30, 2026, @ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in. Read More.

IGNOU PGDDVS Fees

The PGDDVS programme at IGNOU is offered at an affordable fee of Rs. 7,000 for the full programme. In addition, a one-time non-refundable registration fee of Rs. 300 and a university development fee of Rs. 200 are applicable, bringing the total payable amount to Rs. 7,500. Examination fees are charged separately per subject at the time of the Term-End Examination.

Fee Components

Fee ComponentAmount (Rs.)
Programme Fee (Full Course)7,000
Registration Fee (One-time, Non-refundable)300
University Development Fee (One-time)200
Total Fees (Excluding Exam Fee)7,500
Exam Fee (Theory, per subject)200
  • The registration fee of Rs. 300 is non-refundable under all circumstances.
  • The university development fee of Rs. 200 is collected one-time at the time of admission.
  • Examination fees are not included in the programme fee and are to be paid separately before each Term-End Examination.
  • Fee can be paid online via Credit Card (Master/Visa), Debit Card (Master/Visa/RuPay), or Net Banking through the IGNOU admission portal.
  • Refund Policy: Full refund is available before confirmation of admission. After confirmation, 15% of the programme fee (subject to a ceiling of Rs. 2,000) will be deducted. No refund is admissible after 60 days from the closing date of admissions.
  • There is no hostel facility associated with this ODL programme.

IGNOU PGDDVS Admission 2026

IGNOU PGDDVS admissions are conducted twice a year - in January and July sessions. The January 2026 session is currently open, with the last date for application extended to 30th March 2026. Admission is merit-based (no entrance exam), and the entire process is conducted online through the IGNOU admission portal. Students are advised to select their preferred study centre at the time of application.

IGNOU PGDDVS Admission Dates

EventDate
Admission Portal Opens (January 2026 Session)16th December 2025
Last Date for Fresh Admission (ODL Programmes)30th March 2026
Last Date for Re-Registration (January 2026 Session)28th February 2026 (extended)
Tentative Batch CommencementJanuary 2026
Term-End Examination (June 2026)June 2026 (tentative)

Relevant Exam Dates

No external entrance exam is required for PGDDVS admission. IGNOU conducts its own Term-End Examinations (TEE) twice a year (June and December). These are internal university examinations and not external entrance tests.

The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Candidates must hold a Bachelor's Degree in any discipline from a recognised university.
  • There is no age bar for admission to PGDDVS.
  • The programme is open to Indian nationals as well as NRI/foreign students.

Admission Process

  • Visit the official IGNOU admission portal: ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in
  • Click on New Registration and create a login account using your email and mobile number (OTP verification required).
  • Select the PGDDVS programme and fill in the online application form.
  • Upload scanned copies of photograph, signature, educational qualification certificates, and category certificate (if applicable).
  • Select your preferred study centre from the available list.
  • Pay the programme fee and registration fee online via Credit/Debit Card or Net Banking.
  • Submit the form and save/print the confirmation for future reference.
  • Keep your APAAR ID ready before starting the application process.

IGNOU PGDDVS Scholarships 2026

IGNOU PGDDVS students can avail of several government-sponsored scholarships, particularly for SC/ST, OBC, and economically weaker section (EWS) students. The National Scholarship Portal (NSP) is the primary platform through which eligible students can apply for scholarships after confirmation of admission. The affordable fee structure of this programme makes it financially accessible to most learners.

Available Scholarships

Scholarship NameEligibilityAmount / BenefitApplication Platform
National Fellowship for SC Students (UGC)SC category studentsFee reimbursement / stipendNational Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in)
National Fellowship for ST Students (UGC)ST category studentsFee reimbursement / stipendNational Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in)
Post-Matric Scholarship for SC/ST/OBCSC/ST/OBC students with family income below thresholdPartial to full fee reimbursementState Government / NSP
IGNOU Fee Exemption (SC/ST)SC/ST students under specific central government schemesFee waiver as per scheme normsIGNOU Admission Portal
  • Students must apply for scholarships on the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) after confirmation of IGNOU admission.
  • The registration fee of Rs. 300 is non-refundable and is not covered under any scholarship or fee exemption scheme.
  • Scholarship eligibility and amounts are subject to change as per government notifications each academic year.

IGNOU PGDDVS FAQs

Ques. I work in an NGO but have a commerce background. Is PGDDVS relevant for me?

Ans. Yes, PGDDVS is open to graduates from any discipline and is specifically designed for development professionals across sectors. Your NGO work experience combined with this diploma will significantly strengthen your profile in the development sector. The programme covers practical aspects like research methodology and development in India that are directly applicable to NGO work.

Ques. What is the difference between PGDDVS and MA in Development Studies at IGNOU?

Ans. PGDDVS is a one-year postgraduate diploma covering foundational and applied aspects of development studies, while MA in Development Studies (MADVS) is a two-year master's degree with a more comprehensive and in-depth curriculum. PGDDVS is ideal for working professionals who want a quick qualification, while MADVS is better suited for those seeking a full academic degree.

Ques. Does PGDDVS include any fieldwork or project component?

Ans. The PGDDVS curriculum as currently structured does not include a separate fieldwork or project component. The 6 courses are all theory-based, covering development theories, dynamics, issues, research methodology, development in India, and gender and development. However, the research methodology course (MDV 106) equips students with skills for field-based research.

Ques. Is PGDDVS recognised for government jobs in the development sector?

Ans. Yes, IGNOU is a central university and its diplomas are recognised by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU). PGDDVS is a valid qualification for applying to development-related positions in government departments, public sector undertakings, and international development organisations. Many state governments and central government bodies accept IGNOU qualifications for relevant positions.

Ques. Can I pursue PGDDVS while working full-time in a development organisation?

Ans. Yes, PGDDVS is specifically designed for working professionals. Since it is offered in ODL mode, you study at your own pace using self-instructional study materials. There are no mandatory attendance requirements, and you only need to appear for term-end examinations at your assigned study centre.

Ques. After PGDDVS, what are the higher study options available?

Ans. After completing PGDDVS, you can pursue MA in Development Studies (MADVS) from IGNOU or other universities. You can also apply for M.Phil. or PhD programmes in Development Studies, Social Work, or related disciplines. The research methodology skills gained in PGDDVS will be particularly useful for higher research programmes.

IGNOU: 47 Answered Questions

I made a mistake while applying for the BEd course at IGNOU. Can I make changes to the application form after the final submission?

Aditi Randhawa

This is a frequently asked question among students navigating higher education decisions.

Important considerations:

  • Research Thoroughly: Verify information through official websites, NIRF rankings, and authentic reviews.
  • Campus Visits: Attend open houses or virtual tours to understand infrastructure and culture.
  • Alumni Insights: Connect with graduates for honest feedback about academics and placements.
  • Document Verification: Check NBA/NAAC accreditation, UGC approval, and affiliations.
  • Career Alignment: Ensure the program aligns with your long-term professional goals.

For the most accurate information, contact the college admission office directly or consult the official prospectus and website.

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how to change subject/course/medium at IGNOU:

IGNOU allows changes in certain circumstances:

  • Subject change: possible within the first 30 days of admission for the current session. visit your regional center or apply through ignou.ac.in ? student zone ? program change/subject change
  • Program/course change: if you want to switch to a completely different program (e.g., BA to BCA), you generally cannot transfer — you must re-apply for the new program fresh. some provisions exist within the same school/faculty
  • Medium change: can typically be changed with a written request to your regional study center

the annual window for changes is narrow — usually the first month of each admission cycle (Jan or July). after the window, changes are not generally accepted. visit ignou.ac.in ? student support or your nearest IGNOU regional center. bring your enrollment ID and relevant documents. call your regional center to confirm the current process as IGNOU procedures can vary slightly by center.

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The Diploma Programme in Early Childhood Care and Education at IGNOU is a 1 year program. It is a very suitable program with no age bar. It is a holistic program that trains the students and helps them develop the knowledge, attitude and skills necessary for working with young children who are up to 6 years of age. Through this course, you will be trained to organize and manage child-care centers like crèches, preschools, nursery schools, kindergartens, and day-care centers.

Students who are above 18 years old are eligible for the early childhood course at IGNOU. The minimum educational qualification for this course is 10+2 or its equivalent. After fulfilling the eligibility criteria you can fill out the application form and submit it along with the required documents. The required documents for this course are proof of high school completion certificate, a criminal background check, and a certain GPA. There are 4 sections of the Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education (DECE) course in IGNOU given below:

  • DECE-1 Organizing Child Care Services
  •  DECE-2 Child Health and Nutrition
  •  DECE-3 Services and Programmer for Children
  •  DECE-4 Project Work: Working With Young Children in a Child Care Setting

The admission process to Diploma in Childhood Care and Education at IGNOU does not require any entrance examination. 

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To enrol in a certificate course at IGNOU, you simply need to go to their official website @https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in./ and submit the online application form.

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Why do we have to re-register for IGNOU courses?

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IGNOU re-registration is required to allow students to continue taking classes for the upcoming semester or academic year. This applies to both Indian and international students enrolled in IGNOU.

For re-registration, one needs to go to the official website @https://onlinerr.ignou.ac.in/, fill up the form and make the online payment. 

IGNOU July 2024 session re-registration will be done from May 1 - June 30, 2024.

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Who is eligible for the MSc course at IGNOU?

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Students who want to be admitted to the M.Sc program at IGNOU must fulfil the eligibility criteria. Students must be science graduates with 50% marks. Students can join the M.Sc program in both Hindi and English language.

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Students who are willing to be admitted to the B.Sc course must visit the official site of the IGNOU at @ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in. Before applying for the B.SC course you must meet the minimum eligibility criteria that is students must pass class 12th successfully with at least 50% marks with science stream from a recognized board.

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Can anyone apply for an MCom course in IGNOU with a supplementary in a subject?

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No, according to my knowledge, you cannot apply for an MCom in IGNOU having a supplementary in a subject. To be eligible for MCom in IGNOU, you need a bachelor's degree in the relevant subject. 

So, you first clear your supplement subject then you can apply for MCom in IGNOU.

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When can I take admission in IGNOU for MSc course?

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IGNOU conducts admission in 2 phases, once in January and the next phase in July. The application form release date for the 2nd phase of admission has been released on 15th May 2024. 

The last date for admission to MSc for 2024 is 30th June. The last date for MSc re-registration is 30th June. And, the last date for submission of the exam form is 25th May. The MSc admission form for any specialization at IGNOU is available on the official website. The link to the admission portal is @ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in.

The registration fee is INR 300 for the MSc course. IGNOU offers a total of 16 subjects as MSc specialization and it is a 2-year postgraduate degree.

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