Assignments
Why IGNOU deducts assignment marks
IGNOU tutors deduct marks for specific reasons — most of which are preventable. This guide explains every reason marks get cut, what you can do about it, and how to appeal if you believe the deduction is unfair.
By MyIGNOU Assignment editorial deskUpdated 3 min read
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Why marks get deducted
IGNOU tutors deduct marks for specific reasons outlined in the assignment evaluation guidelines. Understanding these reasons helps you avoid them in future assignments.
- Wrong or missing front page
- If the front page has incomplete or incorrect details, tutors may return the assignment or deduct marks for identification issues.
- Late submission
- Assignments submitted after the last date may not be evaluated at all, or may receive reduced marks depending on your study centre's policy.
- Not written in your own words
- IGNOU explicitly requires students to write in their own handwriting and in their own words. Copied content from textbooks or the internet attracts heavy deductions.
- Missing questions
- If you skip questions from the assignment, you lose the full marks allocated to those questions. There is no partial credit for unanswered questions.
- Exceeding or falling short of word limit
- Each question carries a recommended word limit (e.g., 500 words, 1000 words). Answers far beyond or well below the limit may be penalised.
- Poor handwriting or formatting
- Illegible handwriting, missing paragraphs, or disorganised answers can lead to reduced marks even if the content is correct.
How much do tutors typically deduct?
There is no fixed deduction formula. Tutors use their discretion based on the severity of the issue. However, here is a general idea:
- Minor front-page error
- Usually 5-10% deduction if the assignment is still evaluated.
- Significant copying detected
- Up to 30-50% deduction or the assignment may be rejected entirely.
- Late submission (within grace period)
- Some centres deduct 5-10% per week of delay.
- One or two missing questions
- Full marks lost for each unanswered question.
How to appeal a low assignment mark
If you believe your assignment marks were deducted unfairly, you can take the following steps:
Step 1: Gather your evidence
Collect your submitted assignment copy, the front page (if you kept one), the stamped submission receipt, and any email or message confirming submission.
Step 2: Contact your study centre coordinator
Visit or call your study centre and speak to the assignment evaluation coordinator. Present your evidence and ask for an explanation of the marks.
Step 3: Request re-evaluation at the regional centre
If the study centre cannot resolve the issue, escalate to your regional centre. IGNOU may allow re-evaluation of assignments, though this is less formal than exam re-evaluation.
Step 4: Follow up in writing
Send a formal email to your regional centre with your enrolment number, course code, and a description of the issue. Keep a record of all communication.
How to prevent marks deduction
Most marks deductions are entirely preventable. Follow these practices for every assignment:
- Use the front page generator on this site to produce a perfectly formatted cover page every time.
- Write in your own handwriting and in your own words. Paraphrase concepts rather than copying verbatim.
- Answer every question — even a brief attempt is better than a blank.
- Stick to the recommended word limit. Aim for the middle of the range.
- Keep a copy of your completed assignment and the stamped receipt before handing it over.
- Submit at least 3-5 days before the last date to avoid last-minute errors.