IGNOU Credit Transfer Policy 2025: A new and important notification has been released by IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University) regarding its Credit Transfer Policy. This update is very useful for students who are currently studying in IGNOU or planning to join from another university.
In this article, we will explain everything in simple language with tables and examples. Please read till the end so you don’t miss any important point.

IGNOU Credit Transfer Policy 2025 Overview
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Type of Transfer | Internal & External |
Validity of Earned Credits | Up to 8 years |
Credit Transfer Allowed For | Incomplete programs only |
Transfer Limit (External) | Max 50% of total program credits |
Uniform Policy | Applies to all programs |
Minimum Duration Requirement | Not required after transfer |
Change of Courses Allowed | Yes, for early completion |
Fees | One-time processing fee only |
Fee Amount | ₹500 (≤16 credits), ₹1000 (>16 credits) |
What is the Credit Transfer Policy?
Credit Transfer means transferring marks/credits earned in one course or program to another. IGNOU allows two types of credit transfer:
- Internal Credit Transfer: For IGNOU students moving from one IGNOU program to another.
- External Credit Transfer: For students from other universities who want to join IGNOU.
Detailed Points from the Notification
1. ✅ Old Policy Still Valid
The existing policy for both internal and external credit transfers will continue with some changes.
2. 📅 Validity of Credits – 8 Years
Your previously earned credits will remain valid for 8 years. If you apply for a transfer within this time, your efforts will be saved.
3. 📘 Only Incomplete Programs Eligible
You can transfer credits only if your previous program was not completed. If you’ve received a degree or certificate already, then those credits cannot be transferred.
50% Credit Limit for External Transfers
If you are coming from another university, you can only transfer up to 50% of your program’s total credits. For example:
Total Program Credits | Max Transferable Credits |
---|---|
80 Credits | 40 Credits |
60 Credits | 30 Credits |
40 Credits | 20 Credits |
Note: Credit transfer depends on subject matching and level of courses.
Policy Applies to All IGNOU Programs
This modified policy is applicable to all courses and programs offered by IGNOU.
6. ⏱️ No Need to Wait for Minimum Duration
Students can complete their course early after credit transfer. If exams are available in the next session, students can appear and finish their program faster.
7. 🔄 Change of Courses Allowed
If you’ve completed some courses but not others, you may change the courses (as per rules) to complete your program quicker.
Credit Transfer Fee
There is no course fee for credit transfer. But a one-time processing fee needs to be paid:
Credits | Processing Fee |
---|---|
≤16 Credits | ₹500 |
>16 Credits | ₹1000 |
This fee is non-refundable and charged only once.
Where to Get the Notification?
You can download the official notification from the IGNOU website:
- Go to www.ignou.ac.in
- Check the Announcements section.
- Click on the Credit Transfer Notification.
- You will find the detailed policy, forms, and NH guidelines there.