IGNOU MPA Admission: 2026
The IGNOU MPA Admission process for the 2026 session offers a comprehensive academic path for students interested in Public Administration. This postgraduate degree is designed to provide advanced knowledge regarding administrative theories, public policy, and governance frameworks. Prospective candidates can find detailed guidelines and application portals on the IGNOU Official Website to begin their professional journey in the public sector.
Last Updated: January 2026
Securing an IGNOU MPA Admission allows learners to balance their professional commitments with academic growth through the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode. The curriculum is meticulously crafted by experts to meet the evolving demands of public management and civil services. Understanding the eligibility, fee structure, and last date is crucial for a successful application during this admission cycle.
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IGNOU MPA (Master of Arts (Public Administration)) Highlights
The Master of Arts in Public Administration (MPA) is one of the most sought-after programmes at the university, catering to civil service aspirants and working professionals. Below are the key highlights of the IGNOU MPA Admission requirements and programme features.
| Programme Name | Master of Arts (Public Administration) |
| Course Code | MPA |
| Minimum Duration | 2 Years |
| Maximum Duration | 4 Years |
| Medium of Instruction | English & Hindi |
| Minimum Age | No Age Bar |
Who Should Choose This Programme?
This course is ideal for individuals who are curious about how government machinery functions and how public policies are implemented on the ground. It suits those aiming to develop a deep understanding of governance structures and administrative theories while balancing other professional commitments.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Many learners opt for this degree because it provides a comprehensive look at decentralization and local governance, which are crucial for grassroots administration. The flexibility allows students to grasp complex administrative concepts like public budgeting and personnel management at their own pace.
Where Does This Programme Help?
The curriculum is particularly beneficial for those preparing for civil services examinations as it covers a significant portion of the public administration optional paper. It also helps in building the analytical skills required to evaluate the effectiveness of various social welfare schemes and institutional frameworks.
What Happens After Completing This Programme?
Graduates often find themselves better equipped for roles in non-governmental organizations or public sector undertakings where administrative expertise is highly valued. The degree also serves as a strong academic foundation for those looking to pursue specialized research or a PhD in governance and public policy.
Programme Coordinator Details
The MPA programme is managed by the Faculty of Public Administration within the School of Social Sciences (SOSS). For specific academic queries related to the IGNOU MPA Admission or curriculum, students may contact the coordinators listed below.
| Coordinator Name | Contact Email | Department |
| Prof. Alka Dhameja | adhameja@ignou.ac.in | SOSS, IGNOU |
| Prof. Uma Medury | umamedury@ignou.ac.in | SOSS, IGNOU |
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 MPA Admission – Important Details
The IGNOU MPA Admission is conducted twice a year in the January and July cycles. Applicants must ensure they have scanned copies of their educational certificates, photograph, and signature ready before starting the digital application. The university provides flexibility in terms of regional center selection and examination appearing schedules.
IGNOU MPA Admission Last Date
Staying updated with the IGNOU MPA Admission last date is essential to avoid late fees or missed opportunities. Generally, the deadline for the July session falls in late August, while the January session deadline is usually in February. Candidates are advised to check the official Samarth portal frequently for any official extensions announced by the university administration.
IGNOU MPA Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the IGNOU MPA Admission, a candidate must possess a Bachelor’s Degree or a higher degree from a recognized university. There is no specific requirement for a minimum percentage in graduation, making it accessible to a wide range of learners. Graduates from any stream (Arts, Science, or Commerce) are eligible to apply for this Master’s degree.
IGNOU MPA Fees Structure
The fee for the MPA programme is subject to revision by the university. It is typically paid on an annual basis. Students should also account for a one-time registration fee applicable at the time of the first-year IGNOU MPA Admission.
| Year | Academic Fee | Registration/Development Fee |
| First Year | Rs. 7,300 (Approx) | As per University Norms |
| Second Year | Rs. 7,300 (Approx) | N/A |
| Total Fee | Rs. 14,600 (Approx) | Excluding Registration |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU MPA Admission
- Visit the official admission portal at IGNOU Official Website.
- Click on New Registration and provide your basic details like name, email, and mobile number.
- Login with your generated credentials to fill out the IGNOU MPA Admission application form.
- Select the MPA programme and your preferred Regional and Study Center.
- Upload the required documents including educational mark sheets and identity proof.
- Pay the programme fee using Debit Card, Credit Card, or Net Banking.
- Download the application summary for future reference and track your IGNOU MPA Admission status.
MPA Curriculum and Course Structure
The MPA curriculum is divided into two years, covering core concepts of public policy, decentralization, and administrative theory. The first year focuses on foundational subjects, while the second year offers specialized elective choices.
| Course Code | Course Title | Credits |
| MPA-011 | State, Society and Public Administration | 8 |
| MPA-012 | Administrative Theory | 8 |
| MPA-013 | Public Systems Management | 8 |
| MPA-014 | Human Resource Management | 8 |
| MPA-015 | Public Policy and Analysis | 8 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU MPA Admission
Completing the MPA opens diverse career paths in both public and private sectors. Many students pursue IGNOU MPA Admission to strengthen their preparation for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and State PSC examinations. Graduates can find roles as Policy Analysts, Administrative Officers, Social Researchers, or work with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and International Agencies like the UN.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the eligibility for IGNOU MPA Admission?
A1: Candidates must have a Bachelor’s Degree or a higher degree from a recognized university to be eligible for IGNOU MPA Admission.
Q2: Is there an entrance exam for IGNOU MPA Admission?
A2: No, IGNOU MPA Admission is granted based on merit in the qualifying degree (graduation). There is no separate entrance test.
Q3: Can I apply for IGNOU MPA Admission online?
A3: Yes, the entire process for IGNOU MPA Admission is conducted online through the IGNOU Samarth portal.
Q4: What is the medium of study for the MPA programme?
A4: The programme is available in both English and Hindi mediums, and students can choose their preference during the application.
Q5: Are there any age restrictions for this course?
A5: No, there is no maximum age limit for students seeking admission to the Master of Arts in Public Administration.
Official IGNOU Links
For authentic information regarding the academic calendar, digital resources, and university regulations, please refer to the following links: