If you have recently confirmed your admission to the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), you will be allocated a 10-digit Enrollment number. Along with this, you will have the opportunity to download your IGNOU ID card in PDF format through the Samarth portal.
In case you encounter any issues while downloading the ID card, don’t worry; you have alternative options. This article will guide you through the process of downloading your IGNOU ID card, provide essential information, and address common queries.
What is the IGNOU ID Card?
Once your admission to IGNOU is confirmed, the university will allocate a unique 10-digit Enrollment number to you. This number serves as your identification throughout your academic journey with IGNOU.
The IGNOU ID card, which is generated automatically by the software after the confirmation of admission, contains essential details such as your name, enrollment number, program code, and address. It is an official document that validates your status as an IGNOU learner.
How to Download the IGNOU ID Card
To download your IGNOU ID card, you need to create an account on the IGNOU Samarth portal. If you already have an account, you can proceed with downloading the ID card directly. Follow the step-by-step process outlined below:
Step 1: Create an Account on IGNOU Samarth Portal
If you haven’t created a student account on the IGNOU Samarth portal, you need to follow these steps:
- Go to the IGNOU Samarth Portal.
- Click on the “Create Student Account” option.
- Fill in the required details, such as your Enrollment number, program code, and date of birth.
- Create a username and password for your account.
- Enter the captcha code correctly.
- Click on the “Submit” button to create your student account.
Step 2: Downloading the IGNOU ID Card
Once you have created your student account, follow these steps to download your IGNOU ID card:
- Visit the IGNOU Samarth Portal.
- Enter your username and password correctly.
- Fill in the captcha code accurately.
- Click on the “Login” button to access your account.
- After successfully logging in, click on the “Services” option.
- Select the “ID Card Download” feature.
- The ID card will be downloaded in PDF format.
- To view the ID card, use your Enrollment number as the password.
- You can either print the ID card or save it on your device for future reference.
Provision for Offline ID Cards
It is important to note that the availability of the IGNOU ID card on the Samarth portal began from the January 2020 admission session onwards. If you are a student from the July 2019 admission batch or an earlier session, you will need to contact your respective Regional Center to obtain your ID card. Before the 2019 admission session, there was also a provision for offline ID cards.
Important Activities for New IGNOU Students
As a new IGNOU student, there are several activities you need to complete to ensure a successful academic journey. Here are some essential activities to keep in mind:
1. Receiving Study Material
Since IGNOU offers distance learning, study material is primarily sent by post to students enrolled in the Open Distance Learning (ODL) mode. In case you haven’t received your study material, you can download it online and use it until the hard copy arrives. However, students enrolled in the online (OL) mode will not receive a hard copy of the study material and are expected to study using the soft copy material available on the Learning Management System (LMS) portal.
2. Attending Induction and Counseling Classes
The study center or regional center will schedule induction and counseling classes once all admission forms are processed. These classes can be attended either offline or online, depending on the decision of the respective Regional Center or study center. The schedule for these classes will be communicated through email or the official website.
3. Submitting Assignments
To apply for examinations, you are required to write assignments for each subject and submit them at the study center before the specified last date. Each course code has its own assignment question paper, which can be downloaded online. Submission of assignments is mandatory to be eligible for examinations. You can check your assignment submission status online.
4. Accessing the Exam Datesheet and Admit Card
IGNOU publishes the exam datesheet well in advance, allowing you to plan your exam preparation accordingly. You need to submit the IGNOU exam form online and pay the examination fee before the last date. The exam hall ticket or admit card is generated 10-15 days before the commencement of the examination. You can download it from the official IGNOU website.
5. Participating in Practical Exams
Certain IGNOU programs include a practical component, which requires students to attend a minimum of 70% of the practical classes to be eligible for the Term End Practical Exam (TEPE). The practical exam datesheet will be published online by the Regional Center or study center.
6. Checking Results and Grade Card Status
After the examinations, IGNOU publishes the results on its official website. The IGNOU Grade Card status displays your term end exam results and assignment marks collectively, providing an overview of your course completion status.
7. Applying for Re-registration and Convocation
Students pursuing PG and UG programs need to apply for re-registration, also known as admission to the next year or semester. IGNOU accepts the re-registration forms twice a year, in January and July. Once you have successfully completed your entire program, you can apply for the IGNOU Convocation online.
8. Utilizing Student Support Services
IGNOU extends its Student Support Services (SSS) to learners through various channels. Both new and old students can access these support services online, through Regional Centers, or study centers.
Benefits and Details of the IGNOU ID Card
The IGNOU ID card serves as an essential document during your journey as an IGNOU student. Here are some benefits and details associated with the ID card:
1. QR Code and Additional Information
The online downloaded IGNOU ID card contains a QR code along with basic details such as your name, enrollment number, program code, and address. The QR code contains additional information related to your admission session, study center details, medium of study, and more.
2. Carrying the ID Card to Regional and Study Centers
It is important to always carry your IGNOU ID card with you when visiting your Regional Center or study center. The ID card acts as proof of your identity as an IGNOU learner and allows you to access various facilities and services provided by the university.
Conclusion
Downloading your IGNOU ID card is a crucial step for every new IGNOU student. By following the outlined process and creating an account on the Samarth portal, you can easily access your ID card in PDF format. Remember to complete all the important activities during your academic journey and utilize the support services provided by IGNOU. With your IGNOU ID card in hand, you are ready to embark on a successful learning experience.