About IGNOU CLIS – Certificate Programme in Library and Information Science
This programme teaches the fundamental skills needed to manage books, digital records, and information services in a professional setting. It prepares students to handle technical tasks like cataloguing and classification in schools, public libraries, and small information centers.
Who Should Choose This Programme?
If you are currently working in a small school library or a village reading room without a formal degree and want to learn how to organize books properly, this course is for you. It is also a great fit for 12th-pass students who want to start a career in data management or document handling at a low cost. You do not need any prior experience in library work to join this programme.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Most students choose this because it is one of the most affordable ways to get a university-recognized certificate in library science in India. The flexible six-month schedule allows people to study while keeping their full-time jobs. Since IGNOU is a central university, this certificate carries weight when applying for government library assistant posts or semi-professional roles in private colleges.
Where Does This Programme Help?
After completing this course, you can apply for jobs as a Library Assistant, Library Attendant, or Records Clerk. You will find opportunities in government school libraries, community centers, private coaching institutes, and small-scale law firm libraries. It also serves as the perfect foundation if you plan to eventually get a Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS) degree for higher-level positions.
IGNOU CLIS (Certificate Programme in Library and Information Science) Highlights
The following table provides a quick summary of the Certificate Programme in Library and Information Science. This will help you understand the time commitment and basic requirements for the 2026 session.
| Programme Name | Certificate Programme in Library and Information Science |
| Programme Code | CLIS |
| Minimum Duration | 6 Months |
| Maximum Duration | 2 Years |
| Eligibility | 10+2 (Senior Secondary) from a recognized board |
| Medium of Instruction | English (Study materials available in Hindi and English) |
| Offering School | School of Social Sciences |
IGNOU CLIS Admission – Important Details
Applying for the 2026 session requires students to choose a nearby Study Centre where they will submit assignments and attend practical sessions. The university operates on a credit system, where you must complete 16 credits to earn the certificate. Practical counselling is a key part of the curriculum, especially for learning how to process documents. Make sure to check the availability of the CLIS programme at your specific Regional Centre before you pay the fees on the Samarth portal.
IGNOU CLIS Admission Last Date 2026
For the January session, the last date is typically February 28, and for the July session, it usually falls around July 31. These dates are often extended by the university, but it is best to complete your application early. You must monitor the Samarth Admission Portal for the most accurate deadlines for the 2026 academic year.
IGNOU CLIS Eligibility Criteria
To secure admission into this programme, candidates must meet the following criteria as set by the School of Social Sciences:
- Successful completion of 10+2 (Senior Secondary) examination.
- The qualification must be from a recognized national or state board.
- No prior experience or background in library science is required.
- There is no age limit for seeking admission to this programme.
IGNOU CLIS Fees Structure 2026
The total fee for the Certificate Programme in Library and Information Science is designed to be affordable for students from all economic backgrounds.
| Fee Category | Amount (INR) |
| Full Programme Fee | 3,000 |
| Registration Fee | 300 (One-time) |
| Total Initial Payment | 3,300 |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU CLIS Admission
- Visit IGNOU Admission Portal (Samarth) and click New Registration.
- Create a unique username and password by providing your email and mobile number.
- Fill the online application form and select CLIS from the programme list in the School of Social Sciences.
- Select a Regional Centre and a Study Centre near your home for easy access to library practicals.
- Upload required documents: a recent photo, your signature, and your 10+2 passing certificates.
- Pay the total admission fees of 3,300 online via Credit Card, Debit Card, or UPI.
- Save and print your completed application form and the payment receipt for future reference.
IGNOU CLIS Curriculum and Course Structure
The curriculum consists of four mandatory courses. Each course is worth 4 credits, totaling 16 credits for the entire programme. Students learn about library management, document organization, information sources, and the basics of computers in libraries.
| Course Code | Core Subjects |
| BLI-011 | Libraries: An Introduction |
| BLI-012 | Document Processing and Organisation |
| BLI-013 | Information Sources and Library Services |
| BLI-014 | ICT in Libraries |
IGNOU CLIS 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. Jaideep Sharma | jaideep@ignou.ac.in | 011-29572740 |
| Dr. Pawan K. Saini | pawan@ignou.ac.in | 011-29572789 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU CLIS
Graduates of the CLIS programme can find employment in several sectors. In the government sector, you can work as a Library Attendant or Semi-Professional Assistant in public libraries and Kendriya Vidyalayas. Private organizations like news agencies, hospitals, and law firms also hire CLIS holders to manage their internal documentation and archives. Educational institutions such as colleges and private schools often require certificate holders to assist senior librarians in cataloguing and circulation desks.
The degree is recognised by the
University Grants Commission (UGC)
and is equivalent to any regular university degree of the same level. This means you can use this certificate to fulfill the technical qualification requirements for various state-level staff selection commission exams for library posts.
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 CLIS students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU CLIS Admission
Legal & Academic Disclaimer
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
