IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026 is a national-level entrance examination conducted by Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) for admission to its 2-year Bachelor of Education (BEd) programme through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode. The IGNOU BEd programme is recognized by the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE), making it a valid qualification for government and private teaching positions across India. Every year, thousands of aspiring teachers and in-service educators apply for this entrance exam to pursue their BEd degree from one of India's most prestigious open universities. This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of IGNOU BEd Entrance Exam 2026 including notification dates, registration process, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, syllabus, result, cutoff, counselling, and complete admission procedure.
Table of Contents
IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026 Highlights
The IGNOU BEd programme offers a flexible pathway for graduates and working professionals to obtain a teaching qualification without disrupting their careers. Before proceeding with the detailed information, candidates should understand the key highlights of this entrance examination and the BEd programme offered by IGNOU.
Particulars
Details
Exam Name
IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026
Conducting Authority
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
Programme Name
Bachelor of Education (BEd)
Programme Duration
Minimum 2 Years, Maximum 5 Years
Mode of Education
Open and Distance Learning (ODL)
Recognition
NCTE Approved, UGC Recognized
Exam Mode
Computer Based Test (CBT) / Offline
Exam Duration
2 Hours
Total Questions
100 MCQs
Total Marks
100
Negative Marking
No
Medium of Exam
English and Hindi
Application Fee
Rs. 1,000/- (Non-refundable)
Programme Fee
Rs. 55,000 - 60,000 (Total)
Seats per PSC
50 per Programme Study Centre
Official Website
ignou.ac.in / ignou-bed.samarth.edu.in
IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026 Important Dates
Indira Gandhi National Open University releases the official notification for BEd Entrance Test in the month of December or January every year. Based on the previous year trends, the expected schedule for IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026 is provided below. Candidates are advised to regularly check the official website for confirmed dates.
Event
Expected Dates 2026
Official Notification Release
December 2025 / January 2026
Online Registration Begins
January 2026 (Third Week)
Last Date for Application Submission
February 2026 (Last Week)
Last Date with Late Fee
March 2026 (First Week)
Application Correction Window
March 2026
Admit Card Release
March 2026 (Second Week)
IGNOU BEd Entrance Exam Date
March 2026 (Third Week)
Answer Key Release
April 2026
Result Declaration
June 2026
Merit List Release
June 2026
Counselling Process
July-August 2026
Session Commencement
July 2026
IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must carefully review the eligibility requirements before applying for IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026. Meeting the eligibility criteria is mandatory for admission to the BEd programme, and documents will be verified during the counselling process.
Educational Qualification
Category
Minimum Qualification
Minimum Marks
General Category
Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Science/Social Science/Commerce/Humanities
50% aggregate
SC/ST/OBC/PwD/EWS
Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Science/Social Science/Commerce/Humanities
45% aggregate (5% relaxation)
B.Tech/B.E Graduates
Bachelor's in Engineering/Technology with Science and Mathematics specialization
55% aggregate
Additional Eligibility Requirements
Teaching Experience: Candidates must be trained in-service teachers in elementary education OR have completed an NCTE-recognized teacher education programme through face-to-face mode
Age Limit: Minimum 21 years; No upper age limit
Nationality: Indian citizens are eligible to apply
NCTE Recognition: Prior teacher training programme (if any) must be NCTE recognized
Reservation Policy
Category
Marks Relaxation
Reservation Benefits
Scheduled Caste (SC)
5% in minimum eligibility
As per Government norms
Scheduled Tribe (ST)
5% in minimum eligibility
As per Government norms
OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)
5% in minimum eligibility
As per Government norms
Persons with Disability (PwD)
5% in minimum eligibility
As per Government norms
Economically Weaker Section (EWS)
5% in minimum eligibility
As per Government norms
Kashmiri Migrants
As per University rules
As per Government norms
War Widows
As per University rules
As per Government norms
IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026 Application Process
The application process for IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026 is entirely online. Candidates must complete the registration and application submission through the official IGNOU Samarth portal. The step-by-step process is outlined below for easy understanding.
Step-by-Step Registration Guide
Step 1: Visit the official portal ignou-bed.samarth.edu.in
Step 2: Click on "New Registration" and create login credentials
Step 3: Enter basic details like Name, Date of Birth, Mobile Number, Email ID
Step 4: Generate Application Number and Password
Step 5: Login using the credentials and fill the complete application form
Step 6: Enter personal, educational, and contact information
Step 7: Select up to 4 preferred exam cities in order of preference
Step 8: Upload scanned documents as per specifications
Step 9: Pay the application fee of Rs. 1,000/- online
Step 10: Submit the application and download confirmation page
Documents Required for Application
Document
Format
Size
Passport Size Photograph
JPEG
20KB - 100KB
Signature
JPEG
10KB - 50KB
Class 10th Certificate
PDF/JPEG
As specified
Class 12th Certificate
PDF/JPEG
As specified
Graduation Marksheet
PDF/JPEG
As specified
Graduation Degree Certificate
PDF/JPEG
As specified
Category Certificate (if applicable)
PDF/JPEG
As specified
NCTE Recognized Teacher Training Certificate
PDF/JPEG
As specified
Teaching Experience Certificate
PDF/JPEG
As specified
Application Fee Structure
Fee Component
Amount
Entrance Test Application Fee (All Categories)
Rs. 1,000/-
Late Fee (if applicable)
Rs. 200/-
Payment Mode
Online (Debit Card/Credit Card/Net Banking/UPI)
Refund Policy
Non-refundable
IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026 Exam Pattern
Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation. The IGNOU BEd Entrance Test consists of 100 multiple-choice questions divided into two parts. The exam tests candidates on their teaching aptitude, subject knowledge, reasoning ability, and general awareness.
The IGNOU BEd Entrance Test syllabus is divided into two parts. Part A covers general topics that are compulsory for all candidates, while Part B tests subject-specific knowledge based on the candidate's graduation background. Candidates should prepare from Class 12 level textbooks for subject-specific sections.
Part A: Compulsory Sections Syllabus
Section 1: General English Comprehension (10 Marks)
Reading Comprehension passages
Basic Grammar (Tenses, Voice, Narration)
Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms)
Idioms and Phrases
Error Detection and Correction
Fill in the Blanks
Sentence Rearrangement
Section 2: Logical and Analytical Reasoning (20 Marks)
Alphanumeric Series
Analogy
Classification
Coding-Decoding
Blood Relations
Direction Sense Test
Calendar Problems
Number Series
Non-Verbal Reasoning
Syllogism
Statement-based Questions
Logical Venn Diagrams
Section 3: Educational and General Awareness (25 Marks)
History of India and World
Geography of India
Indian Polity and Constitution
Current Affairs
Science and Technology
Sports and Games
Awards and Honours
Important Days and Events
Educational Policies (NEP 2020)
Right to Education (RTE) Act
Famous Educationists and their Contributions
Section 4: Teaching-Learning and the School (25 Marks)
Teaching Aptitude and Attitude
Child Development and Psychology
Learning Theories and Principles
Classroom Management
Teaching Methods and Techniques
Educational Evaluation and Assessment
Inclusive Education
Role of Teacher in Education
School Organization and Management
ICT in Education
Part B: Subject Awareness Syllabus (20 Marks)
Candidates must choose ONE subject from the following based on their graduation background. Questions are based on Class 12 level curriculum.
Subject
Topics Covered
Science
Physics, Chemistry, Biology concepts from Class 11-12 NCERT
Mathematics
Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Statistics, Number System
Social Science
History, Geography, Political Science, Economics, Sociology
The IGNOU BEd Admit Card 2026 will be released approximately one week before the examination date on the official portal. The admit card is a mandatory document for appearing in the entrance test and must be carried to the examination centre along with a valid photo ID proof.
Steps to Download Admit Card
Visit the official website ignou-bed.samarth.edu.in
Click on "Download Admit Card" link
Enter Enrollment Number and Date of Birth
Click on Submit button
Download and print the admit card
Verify all details mentioned on the admit card
Details Mentioned on Admit Card
Candidate's Name and Photograph
Enrollment Number / Application Number
Date of Birth
Exam Centre Name and Address
Exam Centre Code
Exam Date and Time
Reporting Time
Important Instructions
IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026 Result
The IGNOU BEd Entrance Test Result 2026 is expected to be declared in June 2026 on the official website. The result will be available in the form of a scorecard containing the candidate's marks, qualification status, and other relevant details.
Steps to Check Result
Visit the official IGNOU website ignou.ac.in
Navigate to "BEd Entrance Result 2026" link
Enter Enrollment Number and Date of Birth
Click on Submit button
View and download the result scorecard
Take printout for future reference
Details on Result Scorecard
Candidate's Name and Roll Number
Marks obtained in each section
Total marks secured
Rank (if applicable)
Qualification Status (Qualified/Not Qualified)
Category
IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2025 Cutoff (Previous Year Reference)
The IGNOU BEd cutoff varies each year based on factors like exam difficulty, number of candidates, and available seats. The cutoff marks from 2025 provide a reference for candidates preparing for 2026 examination.
Category
Expected Cutoff Marks 2025
Minimum Qualifying Marks
General
60-65
50%
OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)
55-60
45%
SC
50-55
45%
ST
50-55
45%
PwD
50-55
45%
EWS
55-60
45%
IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026 Tie-Breaking Criteria
In case two or more candidates secure the same marks in the IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026, the following tie-breaking criteria will be applied to determine the merit rank.
Step 1: Candidates with Post-Graduate degree scoring above 50% are awarded 2 additional marks
Step 2: Candidates with Under-Graduate degree scoring above 50% are awarded 1 additional mark
Step 3: If tie persists, candidates with higher overall scores in the entrance test are given preference
Step 4: If tie still persists, older candidates are given preference based on date of birth
IGNOU BEd Counselling 2026
Candidates who qualify the IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026 and meet the cutoff marks will be called for counselling at designated Programme Study Centres (PSCs). The counselling process involves document verification and seat allotment based on merit.
Counselling Process
IGNOU releases category-wise merit list after result declaration
Qualified candidates receive counselling call letters via email/SMS
Candidates must report to allotted Regional Centre on specified date
Document verification is conducted at the counselling venue
Seats are allocated based on merit rank and availability
Candidates must pay the programme fee to confirm admission
Maximum 50 candidates are admitted per Programme Study Centre
Documents Required for Counselling
IGNOU BEd Entrance Test Scorecard (Original and Photocopy)
Admit Card
Class 10th and 12th Marksheets and Certificates
Graduation/Post-Graduation Marksheets and Degree
Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwD) if applicable
The IGNOU BEd programme fee is payable in installments across the course duration. Candidates must pay the fee as per the schedule to continue their studies and appear for examinations.
Fee Component
Amount (Approx.)
Entrance Test Application Fee
Rs. 1,000/-
Programme Fee (Total)
Rs. 55,000 - 60,000/-
First Year Fee
Rs. 27,500 - 30,000/-
Second Year Fee
Rs. 27,500 - 30,000/-
Re-registration Fee (per semester)
Rs. 200/-
Exam Form Fee (Theory)
Rs. 200/- per subject
Exam Form Fee (Practical)
Rs. 300/- per subject
IGNOU BEd Programme Structure
The IGNOU BEd programme is spread across 4 semesters over a minimum duration of 2 years. The programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical training to develop competent teaching professionals.
Programme Components
Theory Courses: Core education subjects covering pedagogy, psychology, and subject knowledge
Workshop Activities: Practical skill-building sessions including lesson planning, microteaching, and use of teaching aids
Practice Teaching: School-based internship for real classroom experience
Assignments: Written assignments carrying 30% weightage in final grading
Term End Examinations: Final exams conducted by IGNOU at designated centres
Project Work: Research-based projects on educational topics
IGNOU Regional Centres for BEd Programme
IGNOU operates through a vast network of Regional Centres (RCs) and Programme Study Centres (PSCs) across India. Candidates are allotted study centres based on their location preference and seat availability. IGNOU has 67 Regional Centres and approximately 2000 Learner Support Centres across India.
Major Regional Centres
Region
Regional Centre
Jurisdiction
North India
Delhi, Karnal, Lucknow, Jaipur, Chandigarh
Delhi, Haryana, UP, Rajasthan, Punjab
South India
Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kochi, Madurai
Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Kerala
East India
Kolkata, Patna, Bhubaneswar, Ranchi, Guwahati
West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Jharkhand, Assam
West India
Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Pune, Bhopal, Nagpur
Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh
Central India
Raipur, Jabalpur
Chhattisgarh, MP
IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026 Preparation Tips
Understand the Syllabus: Thoroughly review the official syllabus and exam pattern before starting preparation
Create Study Plan: Divide study time among all sections based on their weightage
Focus on High-Weightage Sections: Prioritize Educational Awareness and Teaching-Learning sections (50 marks combined)
Practice Reasoning Daily: Dedicate 30-45 minutes daily to logical reasoning practice
Read Current Affairs: Stay updated with educational policies, NEP 2020, and current events
Study NCERT Books: Refer to Class 11-12 NCERT textbooks for subject-specific preparation
Solve Previous Year Papers: Practice with past papers to understand question patterns
Take Mock Tests: Regularly attempt mock tests to improve speed and accuracy
Revise Teaching Concepts: Focus on child psychology, learning theories, and classroom management
Time Management: Practice completing 100 questions in 120 minutes
Recommended Books for IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026
Subject/Section
Recommended Books
Complete Guide
IGNOU BEd Entrance Exam Guide by RPH Editorial Board, Arihant IGNOU BEd Entrance Exam Book
Logical Reasoning
Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
General English
Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi
General Awareness
Lucent's General Knowledge, Manorama Yearbook
Teaching Aptitude
Educational Psychology by S.K. Mangal
Subject Knowledge
NCERT Textbooks (Class 11-12)
Career Opportunities After IGNOU BEd
The IGNOU BEd degree opens up numerous career opportunities in the education sector. The NCTE-recognized degree is valid for teaching positions in both government and private schools across India.
Career Option
Expected Salary Range (Monthly)
Government School Teacher (TGT/PGT)
Rs. 30,000 - 50,000
Private School Teacher
Rs. 20,000 - 40,000
Education NGO Professional
Rs. 25,000 - 45,000
Online Tutor/Educator
Rs. 15,000 - 35,000
Education Content Developer
Rs. 25,000 - 50,000
School Administrator
Rs. 35,000 - 60,000
Education Counsellor
Rs. 25,000 - 45,000
READ MORE
Frequently Asked Questions
IGNOU BEd Entrance Test is a national-level entrance examination conducted by Indira Gandhi National Open University for admission to its 2-year Bachelor of Education (BEd) programme offered through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode. The test evaluates candidates on teaching aptitude, subject knowledge, reasoning ability, and general awareness.
Candidates must have a Bachelor's or Master's degree with minimum 50% marks (45% for reserved categories) in Science, Social Science, Commerce, or Humanities. Additionally, candidates should be trained in-service teachers or have completed an NCTE-recognized teacher education programme in face-to-face mode. There is no upper age limit for applying.
The application fee for IGNOU BEd Entrance Test 2026 is Rs. 1,000/- for all categories. The fee is non-refundable and must be paid online through Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI. Late fee of Rs. 200/- may be applicable for applications submitted after the regular deadline.
The IGNOU BEd Entrance Test consists of 100 MCQs of 100 marks to be completed in 2 hours. The exam is divided into Part A (80 marks – compulsory) covering General English, Logical Reasoning, Educational Awareness, and Teaching-Learning, and Part B (20 marks) covering subject-specific questions. There is no negative marking.
No, there is no negative marking in IGNOU BEd Entrance Test. Candidates are awarded 1 mark for each correct answer, and no marks are deducted for incorrect or unanswered questions. This allows candidates to attempt all questions without fear of losing marks.
The total programme fee for IGNOU BEd is approximately Rs. 55,000 – 60,000/- payable in installments over 2 years. This includes tuition fee, study materials, examination fee, and other charges. Additional fees may apply for re-registration and practical examinations.
Each Programme Study Centre (PSC) of IGNOU has a maximum intake of 50 students for the BEd programme. The total number of seats depends on the number of PSCs offering the programme across India. Seats are allocated based on merit rank and preference during counselling.
Yes, IGNOU BEd degree is valid for government teaching jobs as it is recognized by the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) and the University Grants Commission (UGC). Candidates can apply for TGT/PGT positions in government and private schools after completing the programme.
No, once the IGNOU BEd Entrance Test application is submitted and exam centre is allotted, it cannot be changed under normal circumstances. Candidates are advised to carefully select their preferred exam cities during the application process. In rare cases, IGNOU may allow changes under specific conditions.
Required documents include IGNOU BEd Entrance Test scorecard, admit card, Class 10th and 12th certificates, graduation/post-graduation marksheets and degree, category certificate (if applicable), NCTE-recognized teacher training certificate, teaching experience certificate, identity proof, and passport-size photographs. All original documents must be presented for verification.
Candidates from General category must score minimum 50% marks (50 out of 100) to qualify the entrance test. For reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/PwD/EWS), the minimum qualifying marks is 45% (45 out of 100). However, actual admission cutoff is usually higher based on competition.
Yes, attending counselling sessions (contact classes) at designated Programme Study Centres is mandatory for IGNOU BEd students. These sessions are typically held on Saturdays and Sundays. Without completion of required contact hours, candidates will not be allowed to appear for Term End Examinations.
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