IGNOU BEd Entrance 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Planning to appear for the entrance exam? We have provided the IGNOU BEd eligibility criteria.

IGNOU BEd Eligibility Criteria

IGNOU BEd Eligibility Criteria: The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) conducts the IGNOU BEd Entrance Exam. This national-level test is organised to shortlist candidates for the BEd course who wish to build a career in education through distance learning. The applicant needs to check if they meet the IGNOU BEd eligibility criteria, as admissions are strictly based on fulfilling the prescribed academic and professional requirements.

IGNOU BEd 2026 application began on January 29, 2026. Candidates can submit their forms until February 27, 2026. Those who miss the deadline can still apply by paying a late fee of ₹200. IGNOU BEd entrance exam is expected to be held on March 29, 2026 (tentatively). Candidates should keep checking official IGNOU website for any updates.

This article will include the detailed eligibility norms followed by the IGNOU. 

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Who is Eligible for the IGNOU BEd Entrance Exam?

Candidates can check the detailed eligibility criteria for the IGNOU BEd entrance exam - 

Educational Qualification

Candidates must have a minimum of 50% marks in:

• Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in any discipline with atleast 50% aggregate marks.
• Graduation in Engineering or Technology with atleast 55% marks
• Equivalent qualification recognised by UGC/AIU

Important: For candidates from reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/PwD), the minimum marks required is 45%.

Also Check: Six-month bridge course for BEd Primary Teachers

Professional/ Teaching Qualification Requirement

Applicants must either:

• Trained in-service teacher working in a recognised primary, secondary, or senior secondary school OR
• Completed a teacher education programme recognised by NCTE, such as
  • DElEd
  • BTC
  • TTC
  • Any other equivalent teacher training qualification approved by the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE).

Important: Teaching experience may be required in some categories, but it is not mandatory for all applicants. Eligibility depends on the route through which the candidate applies.

Minimum Marks Required for IGNOU BEd

Candidates must have score atleast

Age Limit

No upper or lower age limit is prescribed for IGNOU BEd admissions

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Is Teaching Experience Mandatory?

Teaching experience is not compulsory for all candidates. However:

• In-service teachers may be given preferences where applicable.
• Candidates applying through the training teaching route must submit valid proof of training and experience, if required.

Applicants are advised to check the latest IGNOU admission notification for category-specific requirements.

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Documents Required to Prove Eligibility

Before applying for IGNOU BEd 2026 exam, check that you meet all eligibility rules. You will need to show some documents while filling the form or during admission. These papers prove your education marks, teaching experience, and category, if any. Keep your original documents and a few copies ready early to avoid last-minute stress. Read the official IGNOU BEd eligibility notice carefully before starting form to make sure you don’t miss anything important.

Candidates would require the listed documents 

• Mark sheets of the qualifying degree
• Degree certificate
• Teacher Training Certificate (if applicable)
• Experience certificate (for in-service teacher)
• Category certificate (if applicable)

Candidates are requested to check if they fulfil the IGNOU BEd eligibility criteria. They must refer to the official website before applying for the upcoming session.