About IGNOU DAFE – Diploma in HIV and Family Education
This programme teaches you how to handle the social and medical side of HIV and AIDS while supporting families. It prepares students for fieldwork where they can teach others about health, safety, and emotional care for people living with chronic illnesses.
Who Should Choose This Programme?
If you are already working as a nurse, a community health worker, or a volunteer in a local village and want to become a certified counselor, this course is for you. It is also perfect for young people who want to start a career in social work but cannot attend a regular college because they have a day job. If you want to help people in your neighborhood understand health rights and family safety, this diploma provides the right certificate.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Most students choose this because it is very cheap, costing only Rs. 1,500, which is much less than what private training centers charge for health diplomas. Since it is an IGNOU course, the certificate is valid for government jobs and promotions in health departments across India. You can study at home using the books provided and only need to go to a study centre for occasional counseling and exams.
Where Does This Programme Help?
After completing DAFE, graduates typically work as HIV Counselors, Community Health Educators, or Field Supervisors at organisations like NACO, state AIDS control societies, or local NGOs. You can also find work in hospital help-desks or as a family guidance worker in reproductive health clinics. Many students use this diploma to get a head start before applying for a full degree in social work or public health.
IGNOU DAFE (Diploma in HIV and Family Education) Highlights
The following table provides a quick summary of the DAFE course details, including the time allowed to finish the subjects and the language options available for students.
| Programme Name | Diploma in HIV and Family Education |
| Programme Code | DAFE |
| Minimum Duration | 1 Year |
| Maximum Duration | 3 Years |
| Eligibility | 10+2 (Higher Secondary) or its equivalent |
| Medium of Instruction | English & Hindi |
| Offering School | School of Social Work |
IGNOU DAFE Admission – Important Details
When you take admission, you are part of the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) system. This means you will get printed books or digital study material to read at your own pace. You will be attached to a Study Centre near your home where you can meet teachers for help. You must submit assignments for every subject before you are allowed to sit for the final exams. It is important to keep your enrollment number safe as it is needed for every step from downloading your hall ticket to checking your final results.
IGNOU DAFE Admission Last Date 2026
For the January session, the last date for registration is typically February 28. For the July session, the deadline is usually July 31. You should always check the Samarth Admission Portal for any date extensions. It is better to finish your application at least a week before the deadline to avoid any payment failure issues on the website during the final rush.
IGNOU DAFE Eligibility Criteria
To join this diploma programme, you must meet the following simple requirements as per the university norms:
- Candidates must have passed 10+2 (Higher Secondary) from a recognized board.
- Candidates with an equivalent qualification recognized by the university are also eligible.
- There is no minimum or maximum age limit for applying to this course.
- Working professionals and social activists are encouraged to apply to upgrade their skills.
IGNOU DAFE Fees Structure 2026
The fee for the Diploma in HIV and Family Education is kept very low so that everyone can afford it. Here is the exact breakdown of what you need to pay during the first registration.
| Fee Category | Amount (INR) |
| Total Programme Fee | Rs. 1,500 (Subject to revision) |
| Registration Fee | Rs. 300 (One-time) |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU DAFE Admission
- Visit IGNOU Admission Portal (Samarth) and click New Registration to create your account.
- Create a unique username and a strong password, and verify your email and mobile number.
- Fill the online application form and select DAFE from the list of available diploma programmes.
- Select a Regional Centre and a Study Centre that is most convenient for you to visit for exams and assignments.
- Upload required documents such as your scanned photo, signature, and 10th and 12th-grade certificates.
- Pay the total fees online using a Credit Card, Debit Card, or UPI through the secure gateway.
- Save and print your application form and the payment receipt for your records and future reference.
IGNOU DAFE Curriculum and Course Structure
The DAFE programme is a 16-credit course that covers both the basics of health science and the social aspects of family life. You need to clear four main subjects to get your diploma.
| Course Code | Core Subjects |
| BFE-101 | Basics of HIV/AIDS |
| BFE-102 | Basics of Family Education |
| BFEE-101 | Elective on HIV/AIDS |
| BFEE-102 | Elective on Family Education |
IGNOU DAFE Programme Coordinator
Students seeking academic guidance or clarification regarding the course structure can reach out to the following faculty members at School of Social Work.
| Coordinator Name | Contact Email | Contact Number |
| Dr. G. Mahesh | gmahesh@ignou.ac.in | Check official IGNOU website for current details. |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU DAFE
After finishing your studies, you can work as an NGO Field Worker or a Health Educator. These roles involve traveling to different areas to teach people about disease prevention. You can also work in government hospitals as a Patient Care Coordinator, helping families understand treatment plans. Many graduates join large charitable organisations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation projects or local Red Cross branches. Private clinics and maternity centers also hire DAFE holders for family counseling roles.
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 DAFE students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU DAFE 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.
Official IGNOU Links
Join IGNOUED Community
Official IGNOU updates, admissions, assignments, results and guidance.
✔ Last updated: April 2026
