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Study Material

How to download IGNOU study material

IGNOU provides free self-learning material for every course. This guide shows you how to download it from eGyankosh or get physical copies through your study centre.

Fountain pen resting on a handwritten notebook page
Handwritten work still sits on the assignment cover. The typed PDF is only the identifier. Photo by Aaron Burden / Unsplash

Updated 2 min read

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What is IGNOU self-learning material

IGNOU calls its course content "self-learning material" (SLM). These are printed booklets or PDFs that contain the complete syllabus, readings, examples, and exercises for each course. They are written by subject experts and reviewed by IGNOU faculty.

Format
Block-printed booklets or PDF files
Cost
Free for enrolled students (physical copies may have a nominal shipping fee)
Access
Available on eGyankosh and through study centres
Languages
English and Hindi for most courses; some in regional languages

Download from eGyankosh

  1. Step 1: Go to eGyankosh

    Visit egyankosh.ac.in and click on "IGNOU Self Learning Material" in the menu.

  2. Step 2: Select your programme

    Choose your programme (BCA, MBA, BA, etc.) from the list.

  3. Step 3: Select the course code

    Browse or search for the specific course code (e.g., MCS-011) and click on it.

  4. Step 4: Download the PDF

    Click the download button to get the PDF file. Some older courses may be available as scanned pages.

Getting physical copies

If you prefer printed books, IGNOU sends them through your study centre. Here is the process:

  1. Step 1: Apply at your study centre

    Visit your study centre with your enrolment number and ID card. Fill out the book requisition form.

  2. Step 2: Wait for delivery

    Books are usually dispatched within 2-4 weeks. You will be notified when they arrive at your centre.

  3. Step 3: Collect from the centre

    Go to the study centre with your ID card to collect the books. Some centres also offer home delivery.

What to do if material is not available

  • Check if you are enrolled in the correct session — material for older sessions may have been removed.
  • Contact your study centre coordinator — they can escalate to the regional centre.
  • Email the IGNOU help desk at ignou@ignou.ac.in with your enrolment number and course code.
  • For newer courses, eGyankosh may still be uploading the material. Check back after a few weeks.
  • You can use the programme guide PDF as a temporary reference while waiting for the SLM.

Frequently asked questions

Is IGNOU study material free?
Yes. Self-learning material is free for enrolled IGNOU students. You can download PDFs from eGyankosh at no cost. Physical book copies may have a nominal shipping fee.
How do I download IGNOU study material in Hindi?
On eGyankosh, select the Hindi language filter after choosing your programme. Most popular courses have both English and Hindi versions available.
Can I get IGNOU study material without admission?
Some material is available publicly on eGyankosh without an enrolment number. However, the complete set for all courses in your programme is available only after admission.
How long does it take to receive physical books?
Books are usually dispatched within 2-4 weeks of applying at your study centre. Delivery time depends on your location and the postal service.

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