IGNOU CAPMER Admission: 2026
The IGNOU CAPMER Admission portal for the January 2026 session is now open. The Certificate in Apparel Merchandising (CAPMER) is a professional programme offered by the School of Continuing Education (SOCE). It is designed to develop a specialized talent pool for the garment industry by providing knowledge on apparel production, quality control, and retail management. You can apply for this 16-credit programme via the IGNOU Samarth Admission Portal.
Last Updated: January 2026
Securing IGNOU CAPMER Admission is an excellent step for individuals aiming to work in export houses, buying offices, or retail fashion brands. The curriculum bridges the gap between design and sales, focusing on the core responsibilities of a merchandiser, including costing, sourcing, and coordinating between production units and buyers.
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IGNOU CAPMER (Certificate in Apparel Merchandising) Highlights
The CAPMER is a career-oriented 6-month certificate that provides a foundational understanding of the global apparel supply chain.
| Aspect | Details |
| Programme Name | Certificate in Apparel Merchandising |
| Programme Code | CAPMER |
| School | School of Continuing Education (SOCE) |
| Minimum Duration | 6 Months |
| Maximum Duration | 2 Years |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Total Credits | 16 Credits |
Who Should Choose This Programme?
Individuals with a keen eye for fashion trends and a desire to understand the commercial side of the textile industry will find this certificate highly relevant. It is particularly suited for those who want to transition from basic tailoring or design into the structured business environment of garment exports and retail management.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Many students enroll because it bridges the gap between creative garment construction and the analytical demands of the global apparel market. The curriculum offers a specific focus on the operational workflow of merchandising that is often missing from general fashion design courses.
Where Does This Programme Help?
The knowledge gained here is essential for navigating the complex relationship between production units, quality control departments, and international buyers. It provides a foundational understanding of how to manage lead times, costing, and fabric sourcing within a professional factory or buying house setup.
What Happens After Completing This Programme?
Completing this course allows students to step into entry-level roles such as assistant merchandisers or sampling coordinators where they manage the lifecycle of a garment order. It also serves as a stepping stone for those looking to start their own small-scale apparel boutique with a better grasp of inventory and supply chain logic.
Programme Coordinator Details
For academic guidance regarding the apparel industry modules or project requirements, students may contact the SOCE coordinator:
| Coordinator Name | Contact Email | Phone Number |
| Prof. Heena K. Bijli | heenakbijli@ignou.ac.in | 011-29573063 |
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 CAPMER Admission – Key Requirements
To complete your IGNOU CAPMER Admission for 2026, you will need to generate an ABC ID / APAAR ID via DigiLocker. The evaluation system consists of Assignments (30%) and a Term-End Examination (70%). Practical understanding of garment construction and fabric science is integrated into the theoretical coursework to prepare students for industrial challenges.
IGNOU CAPMER Admission Last Date
The IGNOU CAPMER Admission for the January 2026 cycle is active. The final date for online applications is 31st January 2026. Students are advised to complete their registration early to ensure access to digital or printed study materials before the commencement of the academic session.
IGNOU CAPMER Eligibility Criteria
The IGNOU CAPMER Admission is open to candidates who meet the following academic criteria:
- Educational Qualification: 10+2 (Intermediate) or its equivalent from a recognized board.
- Target Group: Aspiring merchandisers, fashion students, and professionals already working in the garment sector.
- Age Limit: No age bar for admission.
IGNOU CAPMER Fees Structure
The fee for the CAPMER programme is structured to be affordable for students entering the vocational sector.
| Fee Component | Amount (for 2026 Session) |
| Full Programme Fee | Rs. 3,000 |
| Registration Fee | Rs. 300 (One-time) |
| University Development Fee | Rs. 200 (One-time) |
| Total Payable at Admission | Rs. 3,500 |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU CAPMER Admission
- Visit the official IGNOU Admission Portal.
- Create your ABC ID / APAAR ID through the DigiLocker link provided on the portal.
- Register as a “New User” and create your login credentials.
- Select CAPMER from the programme list and fill in your academic details.
- Upload scanned copies of your 10+2 certificate, photograph, and signature.
- Pay the total admission fee of Rs. 3,500 online via Credit/Debit Card or Net Banking.
- Submit the form and download the IGNOU CAPMER Admission confirmation page.
CAPMER Course Structure
The 16 credits are divided into theory courses that cover the essentials of the apparel business and merchandising operations.
| Course Code | Title of the Course | Credits |
| BHC-005 | Basics of Apparel Industry & Merchandising | 8 |
| BHC-006 | Fashion Communication | 8 |
Career and Industry Prospects
Completing IGNOU CAPMER Admission opens up several entry-level roles in the textile and fashion industry:
- Assistant Merchandiser: Managing order files and coordinating between buyers and factories.
- Quality Controller: Ensuring garment standards meet buyer specifications.
- Sourcing Assistant: Identifying and managing suppliers for fabrics and trims.
- Production Coordinator: Monitoring the timeline of garment manufacturing cycles.
🔗 Also Read
These related pages provide additional clarity on syllabus structure, study resources, and assignment guidelines associated with this programme.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is there any practical training in CAPMER?
The course is theory-based but designed with industrial applications in mind. Students are encouraged to visit local garment units to understand the concepts mentioned in the study material.
Q2: Can I pursue CAPMER after 10th?
No, the minimum eligibility for IGNOU CAPMER admission is 10+2 (Intermediate) or equivalent.
Q3: Does IGNOU provide placement after this course?
IGNOU has a Campus Placement Cell (CPC) that occasionally organizes job fairs, but the university does not guarantee direct placement for certificate courses.