IGNOU MAEC Admission: 2026
The IGNOU MAEC Admission process is now open for students seeking to pursue a Master of Arts in Economics through the distance learning mode. This programme is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of economic theory, quantitative techniques, and applied economics to help students excel in research and professional roles. You can find more details on the IGNOU Official Website regarding current cycle updates.
Last Updated: January 2026
Securing an IGNOU MAEC Admission allows learners to balance their professional commitments with higher education. The curriculum is regularly updated to align with global economic trends, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for competitive exams and corporate requirements. Prospective candidates should carefully review the eligibility and fee components before submitting their online applications.
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IGNOU MAEC (Master of Arts (Economics)) Highlights
The Master of Arts (Economics) is a post-graduate degree that focuses on advanced economic analysis and policy formulation. Below are the key highlights of the programme for students considering IGNOU MAEC Admission.
| Programme Name | Master of Arts (Economics) |
| Course Code | MAEC |
| Minimum Duration | 2 Years |
| Maximum Duration | 4 Years |
| Medium of Instruction | English & Hindi |
| Minimum Age | No Age Bar |
Who Should Choose This Programme?
This degree is ideal for individuals with a strong mathematical background who want to deepen their understanding of economic theories and quantitative methods. It suits those who prefer a rigorous academic approach to analyzing market behaviors and social policy through a theoretical lens.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Students often select this course because it offers a comprehensive curriculum that balances classical economic thought with modern econometrics and data analysis. The flexibility of the distance learning format allows working professionals to gain advanced analytical skills without pausing their existing careers.
Where Does This Programme Help?
The course builds a solid foundation in micro and macroeconomics, which is essential for understanding complex global financial systems and local fiscal policies. It provides the technical proficiency required to interpret large datasets and contribute meaningfully to economic research or organizational planning.
What Happens After Completing This Programme?
Graduates frequently transition into roles such as economic consultants, policy researchers, or analysts within government agencies and private financial institutions. Many also use this qualification as a stepping stone toward a PhD or for appearing in specialized competitive exams like the Indian Economic Service.
Programme Coordinator Details
For specific academic queries related to the MAEC curriculum or course delivery, students may contact the following faculty members at the School of Social Sciences.
| Coordinator Name | Email Address | Contact Number |
| Prof. Narayan Prasad | nprasad@ignou.ac.in | 011-29572702 |
| Dr. B.S. Prakash | bprakash@ignou.ac.in | 011-29572717 |
Programme Coordinator details mentioned above are based on information published in the official IGNOU Prospectus and are provided here only for general reference. IGNOUED is an independent educational information platform and does not represent Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU).
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, students are encouraged to refer directly to the official IGNOU prospectus or website.
IGNOU MAEC Admission – Important Details
Applying for IGNOU MAEC Admission requires candidates to register through the Samarth portal. The university offers two admission cycles annually: January and July. Students must ensure they have scanned copies of their educational certificates, photograph, and signature ready before starting the digital application process. It is vital to select the correct Regional Centre and Study Centre during the registration phase.
IGNOU MAEC Admission Last Date
The deadline for IGNOU MAEC Admission varies depending on the specific cycle. Generally, for the July cycle, the last date falls in the month of August or September, while for the January cycle, it usually concludes by the end of February. However, the university often provides extensions. Students are advised to monitor the official admission portal to avoid missing the final date for document submission and fee payment.
IGNOU MAEC Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for IGNOU MAEC Admission, a candidate must possess a Bachelor’s Degree or a higher degree from a recognized University. There is no specific requirement for having a background in Economics at the undergraduate level; however, a basic understanding of mathematical concepts is beneficial for the quantitative modules. There is no entrance examination required for this programme; admission is granted based on merit in the qualifying degree.
IGNOU MAEC Fees Structure
The fee structure for the MAEC programme is affordable and can be paid on a yearly basis. Please note that additional registration and examination fees apply separately.
| Fee Component | Amount (Approximate) |
| Full Programme Fee | Rs. 18,000 |
| Per Year Fee | Rs. 9,000 |
| Registration Fee | Rs. 300 (One-time) |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU MAEC Admission
1. Visit the official registration portal at https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in/ to begin the process.
2. Click on “New Registration” and provide your basic details including a valid email ID and mobile number to create a login account.
3. Log in using your credentials and fill out the personal and academic qualification sections for the IGNOU MAEC Admission form.
4. Upload the required documents such as your graduation marksheets, category certificate (if applicable), and identity proof in the prescribed format.
5. Review the application preview carefully to ensure all data is correct before proceeding to the payment gateway.
6. Pay the admission fee online using Credit Card, Debit Card, or Net Banking and download the receipt for future reference.
MAEC Curriculum and Course Structure
The MAEC programme is divided into two years, covering core economic theories and elective specializations in the second year.
| Course Code | Course Title | Credits |
| MEC-101 | Microeconomic Analysis | 6 |
| MEC-102 | Macroeconomic Analysis | 6 |
| MEC-103 | Quantitative Methods | 6 |
| MEC-104 | Economics of Growth and Development | 6 |
| MEC-205 | Indian Economic Policy | 6 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU MAEC Admission
Graduates who complete their IGNOU MAEC Admission and successfully earn their degree can find opportunities in various sectors. They are eligible for roles such as Economic Analysts, Data Researchers, and Policy Consultants. Furthermore, this degree serves as a foundation for appearing in the Indian Economic Service (IES) exams or pursuing a PhD in Economics. Many private financial institutions and NGOs also actively recruit MA Economics graduates for strategic planning roles.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the eligibility for IGNOU MAEC Admission?
A: To apply for IGNOU MAEC Admission, you must have a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. There is no minimum percentage requirement or age limit.
Q2: Is there an entrance test for IGNOU MAEC Admission?
A: No, there is no entrance examination. Admission is granted directly based on your undergraduate degree qualifications.
Q3: Can I pay the IGNOU MAEC Admission fees in installments?
A: The fees for the Master of Arts in Economics are generally paid annually at the beginning of each academic year during the registration and re-registration cycles.
Q4: How can I check my IGNOU MAEC Admission status?
A: Once you submit your application, you can check your IGNOU MAEC Admission status by logging into the Samarth portal using your control number or enrollment number.
Q5: What is the validity of the MAEC degree from IGNOU?
A: The degree is fully recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and is valid for all government jobs and higher education opportunities in India and abroad.
Official IGNOU Links
For more information, please visit the following resources: