Is a Dual Degree from IGNOU Valid in 2025: All You Need to Know

A new formal policy of dual degree, where the UGC (University Grants Commission) allows students to pursue two academic degrees simultaneously, was approved in 2022. Under this framework, the UGC rules for dual degree programs highlight that students can pursue a dual degree in three modes: online, distance, or regular. According to UGC dual degree guidelines, students can opt for one degree in the regular mode and a second in a distance or online format, or they can pursue one degree in a distance mode and a second in an online mode. Institutions such as IGNOU have incorporated these provisions and now offer a structured IGNOU dual degree pathway aligned with regulatory norms.

To help students obtain a valid degree, many universities offer dual degrees, such as those offered by IGNOU, DU, BITS, and IIT. All these universities have updated their programs in accordance with UGC dual degree guidelines. In this blog, we will discuss the IGNOU Dual Degree, its rules, and the validity of both degrees. As dual degree programs gain policy-level clarity, it becomes essential to examine whether such qualifications, when earned from IGNOU in 2025, hold institutional legitimacy, regulatory approval, and professional value in the context of national education standards.

What is a Dual Degree

A dual degree means that a student can pursue two separate courses simultaneously. Both courses can be either two undergraduate degrees or two master’s degree courses, or one of each. The students must ensure that both degrees are achieved as per the UGC rules for dual degree set with the NEP, together or the university.

There is a difference between a dual degree and an Integrated dual degree. In dual degrees, students can pursue completely different degrees. With contrast, an Integrated dual degree is when the two courses are aligned and overlapping, for example, a BA in English and an MA in English.

In a dual degree course, students can study each course separately, complete all necessary subjects and receive both valid academic degrees upon completion. IGNOU allows students to pursue two degrees simultaneously, either in distance or online mode. The university ensures that both programs meet the necessary conditions. This notification enables students to acquire knowledge in multiple subjects, broadening their career options without waiting years between degrees.

Official guideline on IGNOU Dual Degree

IGNOU’s dual-degree programs were announced in 2022, in line with UGC guidelines. Both degrees will be fully valid, allowing students to pursue them simultaneously without concern for their validity. According to the IGNOU dual degree guideline, officially starting from the July 2022 admission cycle, students can enrol in two undergraduate or postgraduate programs together, provided they meet the eligibility criteria for both, and both degrees should be in two different admission cycles.

The university has clearly outlined eligibility requirements to ensure there is no confusion and to avoid any overlap. IGNOU dual degree programs aim to provide students with high-quality academic standards. The following are the key guidelines for pursuing a dual degree program at IGNOU.

Essential rules for Dual Degree Admission

A combination of academic courses: If a student is pursuing one degree online from another institution, they can pursue another degree from IGNOU (in ODL/online mode).
To purse dual degree from IGNOU: If student wish to pursue IGNOU dual degree the student will have to take admission in a separate cycle, for example if you want to pause BBA and BCOM together then one will have to take admission in January session and for second degree you will have to take admission in July of the same year).
Level of programs: The student can apply to both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Students can pursue either one or both bachelor’s programs, or both master’s programs; they can also choose a combination of both programs.
Regarding common credits: According to the integrated dual degree, students can apply to similar programs, but credits are only awarded once. To obtain both degrees as a valid degree, students must complete both degrees individually to fulfil the credit requirements.
Program Restrictions: IGNOU Dual degree admission is not permitted in specific professional or regulatory body-approved programs, such as BCOMAF, BCOMCAA, BHM, MHA, MCOMAFS, and others, until AICTE, NCTE, or INC issues further guidelines.
Collaboration Restrictions: Degrees offered by IGNOU in collaboration with other institutions (such as joint programs) are not eligible under this scheme.
No Retroactive Benefit: Students who completed two degrees before the 2022 guidelines are not eligible to claim them as dual degrees under this policy.
Policy is Subject to Review: IGNOU may revise these rules from time to time, depending on updated UGC dual degree guidelines.

UGC Rules and Guidelines for Dual Degrees

The UGC has planned these guidelines in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and has released its updated rules for pursuing two academic programs simultaneously. The UGC dual degree guidelines were updated in April 2025, allowing students to participate in flexible choice and also support multidisciplinary learning. Other universities have also prepared a structured guideline for these rules, such as IGNOU’s dual degree.

Key UGC Rules for IGNOU Degree Programs:

A student can pursue two full-time academic programs in regular mode if the class timings do not overlap.
A student can pursue one program in regular mode and another in distance or online mode.
A student can pursue two programs simultaneously in a distance or online mode.
The student should ensure that the university is UGC-approved or a statutorily recognised institution.
All programs must adhere to UGC regulations and any norms established by the relevant professional councils.
These guidelines do not apply to Ph.D. level programs.
Dual degrees completed before this notification will be considered invalid. However, if the student has completed both degrees according to the recent UGC norms, they will be regarded as valid.

Eligibility for IGNOU Dual Degree

According to the dual degree notification, the program has specific eligibility requirements that are aligned with the UGC’s official policy. Qualifying for eligibility for the IGNOU dual degree is mandatory; students must ensure they meet the individual requirements for both courses, as IGNOU permits students to pursue an academic degree concurrently. To learn and understand the eligibility requirements, the following terms:-

Eligibility Conditions:

Students are allowed to pursue two UG programs together if they have completed 10+2 or equivalent qualification from a recognised board.
If a candidate holds a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university, they are qualified for postgraduate (PG) programmes.
Students who wish to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate programs concurrently must ensure that they hold a bachelor’s degree to be eligible for a postgraduate course. Which means the student must have their UG degree to apply for a postgraduate course. Students with 10+2 can only apply for a UG course, but not for a PG course.
A student who has just passed 10+2 cannot apply for a UG+PG combination, as they do not yet meet the minimum qualification for postgraduate admission.
In merit-based PG programs, some IGNOU courses may require a minimum of 50% marks to qualify.
Eligibility for both degrees must be met separately and cannot be carried over or assumed based on the eligibility requirements of different programs.

Additional Points to Note:

For IGNOU dual degree applicants, each course requires a separate admission; students must submit a separate application and provide documentation for each course.
No bridging or provisional admission is allowed under the dual degree structure unless specifically mentioned in the program guidelines.
Subject-specific eligibility may apply in some instances (e.g., a postgraduate degree in Psychology may require a graduation in a related field).
Ph.D. programs are not eligible under dual degree provisions.

Popular Courses for IGNOU Dual Degree

Students can pursue multiple courses from IGNOU and pair them as part of a dual degree program. These combinations are selected based on compatibility, the admission process, and compliance. Each course must be applied independently and followed according to the schedule and credit structure. If the exams or classes of both courses overlap, then IGNOU will not reschedule any examination or classes for anyone. The following are some of the popular combinations students choose under the IGNOU dual degree framework:

Course Combination	Approximate Fees (INR)	Brief Description
BA + B.Com	₹7,200 – ₹9,600 per course	For students exploring parallel learning in arts and commerce.
BCA + M.Com	₹45,000 (BCA), ₹9,000 (M.Com)	Combines computing skills with commerce and finance knowledge.
B.Sc. + BA	₹12,600 – ₹15,000 per course	Offers interdisciplinary exposure to science and humanities.
MA + M.Com	₹9,000 – ₹12,600 per course	Postgraduate-level depth in commerce and social sciences.
MBA + PG Diploma	₹62,000 (MBA), ₹10,800 (PGD)	Designed for professionals aiming to enhance managerial skills.
B.Ed. + MA Education	₹55,000 (B.Ed.), ₹12,600 (MA)	Ideal for aspiring educators with a focus on both theory and practice.
BA + MA Sociology	₹9,600 (BA), ₹12,600 (MA)	Enables an in-depth understanding of social structures and issues.

How to Apply for IGNOU Dual Degree in 2025

Students who wish to pursue an IGNOU dual degree must complete separate applications for each program. Each degree is treated as an individual enrollment and must follow the university’s admission process independently. IGNOU operates on a biannual admission cycle—January and July—which students can use strategically to register for both degrees without overlapping.

1. Visit the Official Admission Portal
Go to https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in

2. Select the Mode of Programme
Choose between “ODL (Open and Distance Learning)” or “Online Programme” depending on your course selection.

3. Generate DEB ID (If Applicable)
For professional or technical programs, generating a DEB-recognised Institutional ID may be mandatory.

4. Click on ‘New Registration’
Enter your name, email ID, mobile number, and a password. Submit the form to create your student profile.

5. Log in to the Portal
Use your registered email ID and password to log in and access the application dashboard.

6. Fill in the Application Form
Select the program, enter academic qualifications, personal details, and contact information carefully.

7. Upload Required Documents

Upload scanned copies of the following:
Passport-size photograph
Signature
Educational certificates
Identity proof

8. Pay the Application Fee
Pay the application fee online through the payment gateway provided on the portal.

9. Submit the Application
Check all details carefully and click on “Submit.” Download the confirmation page for your records.

10. Repeat for the Second Degree
Follow the same process in the next admission cycle (January or July) for your second program under the dual degree structure.

Benefits of Pursuing a Dual Degree from IGNOU

Opting for an IGNOU dual degree offers flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and academic value, particularly for students who wish to diversify their qualifications within a specified timeframe. Since IGNOU adheres to the credit and regulatory standards established by the UGC, the degrees earned are recognised for their institutional credibility and national acceptance. For working professionals, this structure enables upskilling while maintaining employment. For full-time students, it opens up opportunities to gain knowledge in complementary or contrasting disciplines without having to wait to complete one degree before pursuing another.

The dual degree structure also allows students to save time and enhance their resume with multidisciplinary exposure, increasing their competitiveness in both academic and job markets. It is particularly advantageous for candidates preparing for government exams, research work, or career transitions.

Is a Dual Degree Worth It

A dual degree from IGNOU can be a valuable academic investment when pursued strategically and with clear goals. The UGC-approved framework ensures that both degrees are recognised across sectors, including education, government, and private industries. However, students must be prepared for the academic load, time management requirements, and the need to fulfil all assignment and exam schedules independently for each program.

While the IGNOU dual degree format is valid and officially recognised, its worth ultimately depends on the student’s ability to manage both programs effectively and apply the combined knowledge in practical or career contexts. For motivated learners, the dual degree structure is not just valid—it is also a smart way to maximise time, credentials, and future opportunities.

Conclusion

The IGNOU dual degree is a valid and UGC-approved academic option that offers flexibility, recognition, and value. By following the prescribed eligibility and admission process, students can pursue two degrees in parallel without compromising on quality. When planned well, it can save time, broaden career options, and strengthen a student’s academic profile.