IGNOU CIS Admission: 2026
The Certificate in Sericulture (CIS) is a 32-credit vocational program offered by the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) through the School of Agriculture (SOA). The program provides specialized knowledge and practical skills required for the scientific rearing of silkworms and post-cocoon technology. This guide details the complete process for IGNOU CIS Admission for the current academic year.
Last Updated: January 2026
This certificate course is designed for farmers, rural youth, and agricultural extension workers seeking to enhance their expertise in sericulture for commercial application or self-employment. Prospective applicants must carefully review the eligibility criteria, fees structure, and key deadlines before finalizing their IGNOU CIS Admission. Further information can be obtained from the official IGNOU Official Website.
Join IGNOUED Community
Get trusted IGNOU updates on admissions, exams, assignments, syllabus changes, and official announcements.
IGNOU CIS (Certificate in Sericulture) Highlights
The IGNOU CIS program focuses on all aspects of silk production, from mulberry cultivation (food plant) to reeling silk thread. The program uses a practical, skill-oriented approach, which is vital for rural upliftment and entrepreneurship. Securing IGNOU CIS Admission is merit-based and offered in both admission cycles.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Certificate in Sericulture |
| Programme Code | CIS |
| Programme Level | Certificate (Undergraduate) |
| Minimum Duration | 6 Months |
| Maximum Duration | 2 Years |
| Admission Sessions | January & July Cycles |
| Medium | English and Hindi |
| Total Credits | 16 Credits |
Who Should Choose This Programme?
Individuals who have a genuine interest in sustainable agriculture and rural livelihoods will find this certificate particularly rewarding. It is designed for those who enjoy practical outdoor work and want to understand the biological aspects of silk production from scratch.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Many students enroll because it offers a flexible learning path to master specialized skills in mulberry cultivation and silkworm rearing. The curriculum bridges the gap between traditional farming methods and modern scientific techniques required for quality cocoons.
Where Does This Programme Help?
This course is beneficial for those living in or moving to sericulture clusters where hands-on knowledge of host plant management is essential. It helps learners gain technical confidence in identifying silkworm diseases and maintaining the precise environmental conditions needed for a successful harvest.
What Happens After Completing This Programme?
Graduates often focus on establishing their own small-scale rearing units or working within established silk cooperatives. The knowledge gained serves as a foundation for further vocational training or securing entry-level technical roles in regional sericulture departments.
Programme Coordinator Details
Academic guidance and support for the Certificate in Sericulture are provided by the expert faculty at the School of Agriculture (SOA). Students are encouraged to contact the coordinators regarding the practical components and the study material once their IGNOU CIS Admission is confirmed.
| Role | Name | Contact (Official) |
|---|---|---|
| Programme Coordinator | Dr. T. Sasikala | 011-29573087 (Direct) |
| School | School of Agriculture (SOA) |
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 CIS Admission – Important Details
The application for IGNOU CIS Admission is processed entirely online via the IGNOU Samarth portal. Since the programme focuses on practical skills, the curriculum includes compulsory hands-on training sessions at designated Study Centres or Regional Centres. This makes the program highly valuable for those pursuing vocational skills.
Applicants should be prepared to upload scanned copies of their educational documents and pay the requisite fees online. A timely and accurate submission is essential for securing provisional enrollment in the Certificate in Sericulture program.
IGNOU CIS Admission Last Date
The application deadline for the Certificate in Sericulture program is a crucial detail for all aspirants. Missing the final submission date for IGNOU CIS Admission will automatically defer the application to the next admission cycle, which is typically six months later.
- January Session Last Date: The deadline is generally set for **January 31, [IGNOU_YEAR]** (extensions often apply).
- July Session Last Date: The deadline is expected to fall in late July or early August.
- Deadline Reminder: Always confirm the exact last date on the official IGNOU Samarth admission portal to ensure timely submission of your application for IGNOU CIS Admission.
IGNOU CIS Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for the Certificate in Sericulture are straightforward, making the vocational course accessible to individuals interested in agriculture and allied sectors:
- Educational Qualification: Passed 10th standard (Matriculation) or its equivalent from a recognized Board/Institution.
- Alternative Qualification: Non-Matriculates with minimum two years of relevant field experience in Sericulture are also eligible for IGNOU CIS Admission.
- Age Limit: There is no upper age restriction specified for this certificate course.
IGNOU CIS Fees Structure
The fee for the Certificate in Sericulture is highly subsidized, making it an affordable option for rural entrepreneurs and farmers. The program fee is paid in full at the time of securing IGNOU CIS Admission.
| Fee Component | Amount (Approx.) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Fee | ₹300 | One-time (at admission) |
| Programme Fee | ₹3,000 | For the complete 6-month program |
| Total Fee Payable at Admission | ₹3,300 | (Excluding Exam Fee) |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU CIS Admission
The application process is conducted digitally on the Samarth admission portal. Following these steps ensures a smooth and error-free submission before the **IGNOU CIS Admission** deadline.
- Visit the IGNOU Samarth Admission Portal: Access the official online application link: IGNOU Admission Portal.
- New Registration: Register as a new applicant by providing necessary personal details and creating a unique login ID and password.
- Select the CIS Programme: Log in and choose the **Certificate in Sericulture (CIS)** program from the list of available certificates.
- Fill Details: Accurately input all required personal, educational, and communication information.
- Upload Documents: Scan and upload all mandatory documents, including proof of education (10th pass), experience certificate (if applicable), photograph, and signature.
- Pay the Fee: Pay the non-refundable registration fee (₹300) and the Programme Fee (₹3,000) online using the available digital payment methods.
- Submit & Download: Finalize the submission and download the acknowledgment slip for future reference, confirming your application for IGNOU CIS Admission.
CIS Curriculum and Course Structure
The Certificate in Sericulture is a 16-credit program divided into four compulsory courses, focusing on the various aspects of silkworm rearing and silk production. The structure includes both theoretical study and mandatory practical work (field training and laboratory sessions).
| Course Code | Course Name (Focus Area) | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ASC-01 | Introduction to Sericulture | 4 |
| ASC-02 | Host Plant Cultivation | 4 |
| ASCP-03 | Silkworm Rearing Technology (Theory + Practical) | 4 |
| ASCP-04 | Post-Cocoon Technology (Theory + Practical) | 4 |
| Total | 16 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU CIS Admission
The Certificate in Sericulture is a job-oriented course that opens up several avenues in the fast-growing silk sector. Graduates can immediately apply the acquired scientific knowledge for enhanced productivity in silk farming.
Primary career paths involve self-employment and entrepreneurial ventures in sericulture. This includes establishing commercial silkworm rearing units, mulberry farms, silk reeling and twisting centers, or even becoming a certified agricultural consultant for local farmers. The certificate also qualifies individuals for various state government positions in the agriculture and textile departments.
🔗 Also Read
These related pages provide additional clarity on syllabus structure, study resources, and assignment guidelines associated with this programme.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is the Certificate in Sericulture (CIS) program intended for?
The CIS program is primarily intended for farmers, rural entrepreneurs, development workers, and agricultural extension staff who wish to start or improve their sericulture farming using scientific methods. Securing IGNOU CIS Admission provides formal certification in this specialized field.
2. Is there any practical training involved in the IGNOU CIS program?
Yes, the Certificate in Sericulture course involves compulsory practical components (ASCP-03 and ASCP-04) that include laboratory sessions and field visits. This hands-on training is vital for applying the knowledge gained during the IGNOU CIS Admission process and subsequent study.
3. What is the total fee for the IGNOU CIS Admission process?
The total fee payable at the time of admission for the Certificate in Sericulture is approximately ₹3,300. This includes the one-time registration fee and the program fee for the entire 6-month duration.
4. What is the minimum educational qualification required for CIS?
The minimum eligibility criteria require applicants to have passed the 10th standard (Matriculation). However, non-Matriculates with two years of documented field experience in Sericulture are also eligible for IGNOU CIS Admission.
5. Is the CIS certificate recognized for employment in government agriculture departments?
Yes, being an IGNOU certificate, the CIS is a recognized qualification. It significantly boosts the profile of applicants seeking employment in state and central government agriculture, textile, and sericulture development departments.
Official IGNOU Links
For accurate, up-to-date program information, and to complete your online application, please refer to these official IGNOU links: