About IGNOU BAFPS – Bachelor of Arts (Political Science)
This degree focuses on how governments work, how laws are made, and how different countries interact with each other. It prepares students for careers in public service, social research, and administrative roles where understanding policy and power is necessary.
Who Should Choose This Programme?
If you are planning to appear for the Civil Services (UPSC) or State PSC exams and want a solid foundation in Indian polity, this course is designed for you. It is also a great fit for students currently working in small NGOs or local government offices who want a formal degree to move into senior policy-making or research roles. If you enjoy reading about history, current events, and how the constitution affects daily life, you will find this syllabus very relevant.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Most students choose this because it offers the flexibility of distance learning, allowing them to study for competitive exams while earning a recognized university degree. The total cost is much lower than private universities, and the study material is widely respected for its depth in political theory. It is a practical choice for those who cannot attend daily classes but want a degree that is valid for all government jobs in India.
Where Does This Programme Help?
After completing BAFPS, graduates typically work as Political Analysts, Social Researchers, Public Relations Officers, or Administrative Assistants. You can find opportunities in organizations like the Press Information Bureau (PIB), various state legislative assemblies, non-profits like PRIA or Child Rights and You (CRY), and news agencies. It also provides the base needed to study Law (LLB) or a Master’s in International Relations later.
IGNOU BAFPS (Bachelor of Arts (Political Science)) Highlights
The following table provides a quick overview of the BAFPS programme structure. It includes the duration, language options, and the specific school within IGNOU that manages this curriculum for the 2026 academic session.
| Programme Name | Bachelor of Arts (Political Science) |
| Programme Code | BAFPS |
| Minimum Duration | 3 Years (For General Degree) / 4 Years (For Honours) |
| Maximum Duration | 6 Years |
| Eligibility | 10+2 (Higher Secondary) or its equivalent |
| Medium of Instruction | English and Hindi |
| Offering School | School of Social Sciences |
IGNOU BAFPS Admission – Important Details
The admission process for this degree is handled through the central Samarth portal of the university. Once your registration is confirmed, you will be assigned a Regional Centre (RC) and a Learner Support Centre (LSC) where you will submit your assignments and attend weekend counseling sessions. It is important to choose your LSC carefully based on your residence for easy access to the library and face-to-face interaction with academic counselors. Every year, students must complete their re-registration for the next semester to continue their studies without a gap.
IGNOU BAFPS Admission Last Date 2026
For the January 2026 session, the last date for IGNOU BAFPS Admission is typically February 28. For the July 2026 session, the deadline is usually July 31. Students are advised to check the Official Samarth Portal for the latest extensions, as the university often moves these dates forward by a few weeks depending on the number of applications received.
IGNOU BAFPS Eligibility Criteria
To join the Bachelor of Arts (Political Science) major under the FYUP system, you must meet the following basic requirements set by the School of Social Sciences:
- Successful completion of 10+2 (Higher Secondary) from a recognized board like CBSE, NIOS, or State Boards.
- Candidates with an equivalent qualification recognized by the university are also eligible.
- There is no minimum percentage required for admission; passing marks are sufficient.
- There is no age bar for seeking admission to this programme.
IGNOU BAFPS Fees Structure 2026
The cost of the BAFPS degree is divided into registration fees, annual tuition, and examination fees. The following amounts are based on the latest available data for the 2026 session.
| Fee Category | Amount (INR) |
| Registration Fee | Rs. 300 (Non-refundable) |
| Annual Tuition Fee | Rs. 4,500 per year |
| Examination Fee | Rs. 200 per course (Theory/Practical) |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU BAFPS Admission
- Visit IGNOU Admission Portal (Samarth) and click New Registration.
- Create a unique username and password by providing your active email ID and mobile number.
- Fill out the detailed application form and select BAFPS from the programme list under the Bachelor’s degree category.
- Select a Regional Centre and a Study Centre near you that offers the Political Science major.
- Upload required documents: a recent passport photo, scanned signature, 10th mark sheet, and 12th certificate in the specified file size.
- Pay the IGNOU BAFPS Admission fees online via Credit card, Debit card, Net Banking, or UPI.
- Save and print your final application form and the payment receipt for your records and future verification.
IGNOU BAFPS Curriculum and Course Structure
The curriculum is structured under the Four Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP) framework, totaling various credits across semesters. It covers foundational political theory, the Indian constitution, and comparative global systems. Below are the key core subjects students will encounter during their initial years of study.
| Year / Semester | Core Subjects |
| First/Second Semester | BPSC-131: Introduction to Political Theory |
| First/Second Semester | BPSC-132: Indian Government and Politics |
| Third/Fourth Semester | BPSC-133: Comparative Government and Politics |
| Third/Fourth Semester | BPAC-131: Perspectives on Public Administration |
IGNOU BAFPS Programme Coordinator
Students seeking academic guidance or clarification regarding the course structure can reach out to the following faculty members at School of Social Sciences.
| Coordinator Name | Contact Email | Contact Number |
| Prof. S.V. Reddy | svreddy@ignou.ac.in | 011-29572733 |
| Dr. Madan Yadav | madanyadav@ignou.ac.in | 011-29572722 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU BAFPS
Graduates from this programme have a wide range of career options in both the government and private sectors. You can work as a Content Writer for political magazines, a Research Assistant in social science institutes, or a Development Associate in rural development projects. Many students also find roles in local municipal corporations or as executive assistants to elected representatives. The analytical skills you learn here are highly valued in journalism and corporate social responsibility (CSR) departments of large companies like Reliance or Tata Motors.
The degree is recognised by the
University Grants Commission (UGC)
and is equivalent to any regular university degree of the same level.
Important Note for Students
⚠️ Admission details for the 2026 session will be updated after IGNOU
releases the official notification. Always verify fees, dates, and eligibility at
ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in before applying.
Also Read
More resources for BAFPS students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU BAFPS Admission
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This page is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected to IGNOU
(Indira Gandhi National Open University). All information is provided for educational
and informational purposes only. Fee amounts, eligibility criteria, and admission
dates are subject to change. Always verify current details at
ignou.ac.in.
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✔ Last updated: April 2026
