APAAR ID Compulsory for IGNOU Admission 2026

IGNOU has introduced an important update for the January 2026 admission session. From now on, APAAR ID (Academic Bank of Credits ID) is mandatory for students applying to IGNOU Online and ODL programmes.

Without APAAR ID, students cannot submit the IGNOU admission form. This guide explains everything you need to know about APAAR ID in simple language.

What is APAAR ID?

APAAR ID (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) is a unique academic identity number introduced under the National Education Policy (NEP 2020).

It helps in digitally storing and tracking a student's academic records, credits, degrees and certificates across universities.

Why is APAAR ID Mandatory for IGNOU Admission?

To verify student academic records digitally
To avoid duplicate or fake admissions
To enable academic credit transfer
To comply with NEP 2020 guidelines

⚠️ Important: IGNOU admission form will not be accepted without a valid APAAR ID.

APAAR ID Required for Which IGNOU Programmes?

APAAR ID is compulsory for:

IGNOU Online Programmes (January 2026)
IGNOU ODL / Distance Learning Programmes
UG, PG, Diploma & Certificate Courses

Official Admission Portals:
Online Mode: https://iop.ignouonline.ac.in
ODL Mode: https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in

How to Create APAAR ID (Step-by-Step)

Visit DigiLocker website: https://www.digilocker.gov.in
Login using Aadhaar-linked mobile number
Search for Academic Bank of Credits / APAAR ID
Provide consent and generate APAAR ID
Download or save APAAR ID for admission use

How to Use APAAR ID in IGNOU Admission Form?

While filling the IGNOU admission form, enter the exact APAAR ID number generated through DigiLocker. Any mismatch may cause application rejection.

What If You Do Not Have APAAR ID?

If you do not have APAAR ID:

You cannot submit IGNOU admission form
First generate APAAR ID
Then proceed with admission

IGNOU Admission 2026 – Important Dates

Last Date to Apply: 31 January 2026
APAAR ID: Mandatory before submission

FAQs – APAAR ID & IGNOU Admission

Is APAAR ID compulsory for all IGNOU students?

Yes, APAAR ID is mandatory for all new IGNOU admissions from January 2026.

Is APAAR ID same as Aadhaar?

No. APAAR ID is different but linked with Aadhaar.

Is APAAR ID free?

Yes, generating APAAR ID is completely free.

Need Help with IGNOU Admission?

If you need help with APAAR ID creation, IGNOU admission form or programme selection, contact us on WhatsApp for guidance.

🔗 Useful Links: IGNOU Online Admission 2026 | IGNOU January Admission Guide | How to Write IGNOU Assignments | IGNOU Assignment Format | Home