IGNOU Passing Marks 2024-25 : –The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) follows a specific system to evaluate student performance. This includes a combination of continuous assessment (assignments) and term-end examinations (TEE). The passing marks vary depending on the level of the program (Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Diploma, etc.). This article provides a detailed, easy-to-understand guide on IGNOU’s passing marks, grading system, and evaluation components.
Overview of IGNOU Passing Marks
Here is a simple tabular overview of the passing marks across different courses at IGNOU:
Program Level | Theory Passing Marks | Assignment Passing Marks | Overall Requirement |
Undergraduate (UG) | 35% (or 35/100) | 35% | 50% overall |
Postgraduate (PG) | 40% (or 40/100) | 40% | 50% overall |
Diploma/Certificate | 40% (or 40/100) | 40% | 50% overall |
For practical exams, students need to score at least 50% marks to pass successfully. Assignments contribute significantly to the final grades, so submitting well-prepared assignments is important.
Detailed Breakdown of Passing Marks
1. Assignments
Assignments form an essential part of the IGNOU evaluation system, contributing to the continuous assessment. Here’s what you need to know:
Program Level | Assignment Passing Marks |
Undergraduate (UG) | 35% |
Postgraduate (PG) | 40% |
Diploma/Certificate | 40% |
- General Requirement: For all programs, assignments must be submitted on time and should meet the required quality standards to score well.
- Failure to meet the assignment requirements may result in a failing grade, even if the student performs well in the theory exam.

2. Term-End Examinations (TEE)
TEE is the final examination conducted by IGNOU at the end of each semester or year. The passing criteria for TEE are as follows:
Program Level | TEE Passing Marks |
Undergraduate (UG) | 35% (or 35/100) |
Postgraduate (PG) | 40% (or 40/100) |
Diploma/Certificate | 40% (or 40/100) |
- Preparation Tips: To excel in the TEE, it’s crucial to refer to the study material provided by IGNOU and practice with previous year’s question papers.
3. Practical Exams/Project Work
Some programs may have practical exams or project work as part of the evaluation. The passing criteria for practical exams or project work is usually similar to the theory exams:
Program Level | Practical Exam Passing Marks |
Undergraduate (UG) | 50% |
Postgraduate (PG) | 50% |
Diploma/Certificate | 50% |
- Project Work: In programs like MCA or MSc, the final project or dissertation also holds a significant weight in determining the overall grade.
Passing Marks for Specific Programs
Let’s break down the passing criteria for specific program levels:
Undergraduate Programs (UG)
- Theory Exams: You must score at least 35 out of 100 in theory exams to pass.
- Assignments: A minimum of 35% marks is required.
- Programs Covered:
- Bachelor of Arts (BA)
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
- Bachelor of Science (BSc)
- Bachelor of Tourism Studies (BTS)
Postgraduate Programs (PG)
- Theory Exams: A minimum of 40 marks out of 100 is required.
- Assignments: At least 40% marks are needed in assignments.
- Programs Covered:
- Master of Arts (MA) in various disciplines
- Master of Commerce (MCom)
- Master of Computer Applications (MCA)
Diploma/Certificate Programs
- Theory Exams and Assignments: You need at least 40% in both segments.
- Programs Covered:
- Diploma in Nutrition and Health Education (DNHE)
- Diploma in Tourism Studies (DTS)
- Certificate in Rural Development (CRD)
IGNOU Grading System
IGNOU uses a grading system that corresponds to the percentage of marks obtained by the student. Here is a general idea of the grades:
Percentage Range | Grade (Typical) | Remarks |
80% and above | A | Excellent |
60% to 79% | B | Good |
50% to 59% | C | Average |
40% to 49% | D | Pass (Minimum for many PG/Diploma courses) |
35% to 39% | E | Pass (Minimum for many UG courses) |
Below 35% | F | Fail |
Importance of Assignments
Assignments play a significant role in determining your final grade. Here’s why:
- Weightage: In most IGNOU courses, assignments carry a weightage of 30%.
- Minimum Passing Marks:
- For Undergraduate students, assignments account for 35% minimum passing marks.
- For Postgraduate and Diploma students, assignments require at least 40% marks.
Failing to meet the required marks in assignments will result in an “incomplete” grade. Students can resubmit assignments or reappear for exams to improve their scores.
Tips for Success at IGNOU
Here are some tips that will help you perform well in your IGNOU courses:
1. Plan Your Studies
Use a calendar to schedule regular study sessions and avoid last-minute stress.
2. Submit Assignments on Time
Ensure you submit assignments before the deadlines for better results.
3. Utilize Study Resources
Take advantage of IGNOU’s regional and study centers for extra support and guidance.
4. Practice Past Papers
Practice previous years’ question papers to familiarize yourself with the exam format.
5. Seek Help When Needed
If you are facing difficulty, reach out to tutors or peers for help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the minimum passing percentage for IGNOU exams?
- Undergraduate Programs: 35%
- Postgraduate and Diploma Programs: 40%
2. What happens if I fail in assignments or exams?
You can either resubmit your assignments or reappear for exams to improve your score.
3. How are practical exams evaluated?
Practical exams usually require a minimum of 50% to pass, depending on the program.
4. Can I pass if I fail in either the assignments or the TEE?
No, both assignments and theory exams must meet the minimum passing criteria to pass the course.
5. Where can I find IGNOU study materials?
Study materials are provided by IGNOU and are available on their official website or at regional study centers.