IGNOU MLIS Admission 2026: Fees, Eligibility Criteria, Syllabus, Application Process, Jobs

IGNOU MLIS Admission 2026: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) was established in 1985 by the Government of India. The university is recognized by the UGC and all distance education is approved by the DEB (Distance Education Bureau). The university is approved by the NAAC giving an A++ grade. IGNOU offers the MLIS (Master of Library and Information Science) program under its School of Social Sciences. The MLIS program is structured under a credit-based system which helps students plan their studies in a flexible and organized manner.

The IGNOU MLIS course generally offers 40 credits. The course covers areas such as library management, information organization, digital libraries and knowledge services. IGNOU provides facilities like credit transfer, multiple exit options (as per UGC guidelines where applicable), and access to digital learning resources through eGyanKosh and online platforms. The total course fee is INR 12,000 for IGNOU MLIS course and application fee of INR 300 needs to be paid while enrolling in the program. 

IGNOU admission procedure has begun for the MLIS program under the January 2026 session, with the online application process last date to apply is 31 January 2026. Admission to the program is granted on a merit basis, and the university does not conduct any entrance examination for this course. Interested applicants can apply online through the official IGNOU website, where complete details regarding eligibility, important dates and admission guidelines will be provided.

IGNOU MLIS Course Highlights Table

IGNOU MLIS Course Details

The IGNOU MLIS course is a 1-year postgraduate program that provides strong subject knowledge along with research and analytical skills in the chosen science discipline. The program is offered through distance learning, making it suitable for students and working professionals who want to continue their studies with flexibility. The curriculum includes both theoretical concepts and practical components, helping learners build a solid academic foundation. 

Graduates who complete the IGNOU MLIS course have access to a wide range of career opportunities across different sectors. They can work in roles such as Librarian, Assistant Librarian, Archivist, Documentation Officer, Information Analyst, Library Information Officer, Research Assistant and more. Job opportunities are available in areas like Universities and colleges, Schools and educational institutes, Publishing houses, Research institutes and laboratories, Digital libraries and archives and many more. The salary offered by multiple companies ranges between INR 3 LPA to INR 6 LPA. 

IGNOU MLIS Admission 2026-27

IGNOU started the admission process for the MLIS program under the January 2026 session. The last date for IGNOU MLIS admission is 31 January 2026. Candidates are strongly advised to check and download the official admission prospectus from the IGNOU website @ignou.ac.in to get complete and updated information about fees, important dates and admission guidelines related to the program. The course fee for IGNOU MLIS is INR 12000 per year. 

Applicants must first make sure they meet the required eligibility that set by the university . After that they need to fill out the online application form and upload the necessary documents within the given deadline. IGNOU does not hold any entrance test for the MLIS program and admission is granted purely on the basis of eligibility. The entire registration process can be completed online through the university’s official portal, making it convenient for students across the country.

IGNOU MLIS Course Eligibility Criteria 

Admission to the IGNOU MLIS (Master of Library and Information Science) program is done strictly as per the guidelines mentioned in the official admission prospectus issued by the university. IGNOU follows a merit-based admission process for this course and does not conduct any entrance test.

Candidates who wish to apply should keep checking the official IGNOU website for the latest updates related to admission schedules, instructions, and application procedures. The basic eligibility conditions for the program are outlined below.

• Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in Library and Information Science (BLIS) or an equivalent qualification from a recognized university or institution.
• Candidates are generally required to have at least 45% marks in the qualifying degree to be eligible for admission.
• There is no age restriction, and candidates from any age group can apply for the MLIS program.

IGNOU MLIS Application Process 2026

• Step 1: Visit the official IGNOU admission website and open the online application portal.
• Step 2: Select the MLISc program and click on the Admission option to continue.
• Step 3: On the admission page choose “New Registration / New Admission” to begin the process.
• Step 4: Click on “New Applicant” and create an account using basic details.
• Step 5: Enter personal information such as name, mobile number, email ID and identity proof to complete registration.
• Step 6: Log in using the application number and password provided.
• Step 7: Fill in all required sections, including personal details, educational qualifications and program details.
• Step 8: Upload the necessary documents, photograph and signature as per the specified format and size.
• Step 9: Proceed to the payment section and pay the application fee using available online modes. 
• Step 10: Submit the application form after final verification.

Required Documents

• Bachelor’s degree certificate
• 10th Mark sheets 
• 12th Mark sheets
• Recent passport-size photograph
• Scanned signature
• Identity proof (Aadhaar Card / Voter ID / Passport)
• Date of birth proof
• Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS, if applicable)
• Experience certificate (if required, if any)

IGNOU MLIS Course Syllabus 

Why Choose IGNOU MLIS Course?

• Flexible Learning: IGNOU offers the MLISc program through distance and online modes, allowing students to study at their own pace while managing work or personal commitments.
• Recognized Degree: The program is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC), ensuring that the degree is valid and respected across India.
• Industry-Relevant Curriculum: The syllabus is designed by experienced professionals and covers key areas like library management, digital libraries, information organization and knowledge resources.
• Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue roles such as Librarian, Information Specialist, Knowledge Manager, Digital Resource Manager or Library Assistant in government institutions, private companies, universities and research organizations.
• Practical and Theoretical Knowledge: The program balances practical skills and theoretical concepts, preparing students to handle modern library systems, digital tools and information management efficiently.
• Accessible to All: IGNOU’s open learning system makes the program accessible to students from diverse educational and professional backgrounds.

Jobs After Completing IGNOU MLIS Course

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