DISTANCE LEARNING | UGC-DEB APPROVED | NO ENTRANCE EXAM
IGNOU Distance MLIS 2026: Fees, Eligibility and Admission
Take your library career to the next level with a master’s degree from a central university. The IGNOU Distance MLIS lets BLIS graduates study library and information science in just 1 year from home, learn digital libraries, research methods and information retrieval, and take up to 2 years if work gets busy.
About the Programme
What Is the IGNOU Distance MLIS
The IGNOU Distance MLIS (Master of Library and Information Science) is a 1-year, 2-semester postgraduate programme offered in open and distance learning (ODL) mode by Indira Gandhi National Open University. It builds on your BLIS with advanced classification, information storage and retrieval, information analysis and repackaging, research methodology and digital library management. You get printed and digital study material, attend counselling and practical sessions at your regional study centre, and complete assignments and term-end exams in June and December.
Why Choose the IGNOU Distance MLIS
- Central university degree
- No entrance exam
- Finish in just 1 year
- Affordable one-time course fee
- Up to 2 years to finish
Who Should Consider a Distance MLIS from IGNOU
A Distance MLIS from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) suits anyone who has completed a BLIS and wants to grow in the library and information field. Working librarians and library assistants can earn a master’s degree without leaving their jobs, BLIS graduates can qualify for senior librarian and information officer posts, and those aiming to teach can prepare for UGC-NET in Library Science. With low fees, a UGC-DEB approved degree and study centres across India, MLIS distance education from IGNOU is a practical way to advance your career on your own schedule.
Working Librarians:
Earn a recognised MLIS alongside your job and qualify for promotions to senior librarian and head of library roles.
BLIS Graduates:
Complete your library science education in just one year and become eligible for higher posts and UGC-NET.
Information Professionals:
Build skills in digital libraries, documentation and information management for archives, research centres and corporate libraries.
Learners Across India:
Study from home and use your nearest IGNOU study centre for counselling, practicals and exams, with no relocation or hostel costs.
Curriculum
IGNOU Distance MLIS Subjects
The IGNOU Distance MLIS runs over two semesters and combines theory courses with practical work. Each course is assessed through assignments (30%) and a term-end exam (70%). These are the main areas you study in the Distance MLIS:
- Research
- Research Methodology
- Statistical Techniques
- Information Processing
- Information Analysis and Repackaging
- Advanced Classification Practice
- Retrieval
- Information Storage and Retrieval
- Indexing and Abstracting
- Digital Libraries
- Library Automation
- Digital Library Management
Our Credibility
Accreditation and Approvals
The IGNOU Distance MLIS is offered by a central university recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and approved by UGC-DEB to run open and distance learning programmes. IGNOU holds an A++ grade from NAAC, so your Distance MLIS degree is valid for government jobs, library posts, UGC-NET and higher studies such as a PhD.
Admission Details
Course Duration & Eligibility
The IGNOU Distance MLIS is a 1-year (2-semester) programme, and you can take up to 2 years to complete it. Anyone with a BLIS degree from a recognised university can apply, with no entrance exam required.
Course Duration
1 Year (2 semesters) of self-paced distance learning, with up to 2 years to complete the programme.
Eligibility
Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS) or an equivalent degree from a recognised university
Sample Degree
Get a Recognised Distance MLIS Degree
On completing the programme, you receive a Master of Library and Information Science degree from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), a central university recognised by the UGC and accepted for government jobs, library posts and higher studies.
How to Apply for the IGNOU Distance MLIS 2026
IGNOU admits Distance MLIS students twice a year, in the July and January sessions. Apply on the official IGNOU Samarth admission portal.
1
Choose your program and mode
Check eligibility and select the MLIS programme.
2
Create APAAR/ABC ID and DEB ID
You can’t submit the form without them.
3
Register on the right portal
Sign up on IGNOU’s Samarth portal for ODL admission.
4
Fill the form and upload documents.
You’ll need a photo, signature, mark sheets, and category certificate
5
Pay the fee online
our enrolment number follows once IGNOU verifies your documents.
Distance MLIS: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is the IGNOU Distance MLIS degree valid
Yes. IGNOU is a central university recognised by the UGC, and its distance programmes are approved by UGC-DEB. An MLIS distance education degree from IGNOU is valid for government jobs, library posts, UGC-NET and higher studies such as a PhD.
Q2. What is the eligibility for the IGNOU Distance MLIS
You need a Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS) or an equivalent degree from a recognised university. There is no entrance exam and no upper age limit.
Q3. What subjects are covered in the IGNOU Distance MLIS
You study research methodology and statistics, information analysis and repackaging, advanced classification, information storage and retrieval, and digital library management, along with practical work.
Q4. What is the fee for the IGNOU Distance MLIS
The course fee is around ₹12,000 for the full programme, plus a ₹300 registration fee. Confirm the current fee on IGNOU’s official Samarth admission portal before paying.
Q5. What is the duration of the IGNOU Distance MLIS
The minimum duration is 1 year (2 semesters), and you can take up to 2 years to finish. IGNOU admits students twice a year, in the July and January sessions.