IGNOU MAAE Admission: 2026
The Indira Gandhi National Open University offers the Master of Arts in Adult Education for students seeking specialized knowledge in lifelong learning and community development. IGNOU MAAE Admission is open twice a year during the January and July academic cycles, providing a flexible learning path for working professionals and educators. For official updates and registration, candidates should regularly visit the IGNOU Official Website to ensure they meet the current session requirements.
Last Updated: January 2026
Securing an IGNOU MAAE Admission allows learners to engage with advanced theories of andragogy, extension education, and research methods. This postgraduate degree is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and focuses on preparing personnel for the adult education sector. The curriculum is designed to address the growing need for skilled professionals in non-formal education and rural development programs across India.
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IGNOU MAAE (Master of Arts (Adult Education)) Highlights
The Master of Arts (Adult Education) is a comprehensive program that bridges the gap between theoretical research and practical field intervention. It is particularly suitable for those already working in NGOs, government social projects, or educational institutions. Below are the key highlights of the programme for students considering enrollment.
| Programme Name | Master of Arts (Adult Education) |
| Programme Code | MAAE |
| Minimum Duration | 2 Years |
| Maximum Duration | 4 Years |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Valid Approval | UGC-DEB Recognized |
Who Should Choose This Programme?
Individuals who are passionate about lifelong learning and community development will find this curriculum deeply rewarding. It is particularly suitable for educators or social workers who want to understand the psychological and sociological frameworks behind teaching adult learners effectively.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Students often select this course because it offers a specialized focus on non-formal education and extension work that traditional teaching degrees might overlook. The flexibility allows working professionals to gain expertise in participatory research and program management while balancing their existing field responsibilities.
Where Does This Programme Help?
The academic content provides a strong foundation for designing literacy campaigns and vocational training modules in diverse rural or urban settings. It helps learners master the nuances of adult psychology, making it easier to implement sustainable educational interventions within NGOs or government development projects.
What Happens After Completing This Programme?
Graduates are well-prepared to take on roles as project coordinators, training managers, or curriculum developers within the adult literacy sector. Many alumni also pursue research opportunities or academic positions focused on continuing education and community outreach strategies.
Programme Coordinator Details
The program is managed by the School of Education (SOE) at IGNOU. For academic queries regarding the curriculum, project work, or course content, students can reach out to the following faculty members.
| Coordinator Name | Contact Details |
| Dr. M.V. Lakshmi Reddy | mvlreddy@ignou.ac.in |
| Dr. Elizabeth Kuruvilla | elizakuruvilla@ignou.ac.in |
Programme Coordinator details mentioned above are based on information published in the official IGNOU Prospectus and are provided here only for general reference. IGNOUED is an independent educational information platform and does not represent Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU).
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, students are encouraged to refer directly to the official IGNOU prospectus or website.
IGNOU MAAE Admission – Important Details
Prospective students must complete the IGNOU MAAE Admission process online through the Samarth portal. The university requires candidates to scan and upload their original documents, including degree certificates and identity proof. Once the application is submitted, the university verifies the data before confirming the enrollment and issuing an enrollment number. It is essential to choose the correct Regional Centre and Study Centre during the application process to facilitate smooth submission of assignments and attending counseling sessions.
IGNOU MAAE Admission Last Date
The IGNOU MAAE Admission last date is typically announced by the university at the start of each admission cycle. For the January cycle, the deadline usually falls in late February, while for the July cycle, it often extends until August or September. Students are advised not to wait until the final day to avoid technical issues on the portal. Always check the official Samarth portal for the most current notification regarding extensions or late fee applicability.
IGNOU MAAE Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for IGNOU MAAE Admission, a candidate must hold a Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline from a recognized university. There is no age bar for joining this Master’s program, making it accessible to both fresh graduates and senior professionals. Admission is granted based on the fulfillment of basic eligibility criteria without an entrance test, provided the applicant has successfully completed their undergraduate studies with the minimum passing marks as per university norms.
IGNOU MAAE Fees Structure
The total fee for the MAAE program is payable on an annual basis. Students must pay the first-year fee at the time of initial admission and the second-year fee through the re-registration portal in the subsequent academic year.
| Academic Year | Fee Amount (Approximate) |
| First Year | INR 7,500 |
| Second Year | INR 7,500 |
| Registration Fee | INR 300 (Non-refundable) |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU MAAE Admission
- Visit the official admission portal at IGNOU Admission Samarth Portal.
- Click on “New Registration” and create a unique Username and Password.
- Log in to your account and fill out the personal and academic details required for the application.
- Select “Master of Arts (Adult Education)” from the list of available programmes.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and educational documents.
- Pay the IGNOU MAAE Admission fee using a Credit Card, Debit Card, or Net Banking.
- Download the submitted application form and the payment receipt for future reference.
MAAE Curriculum and Course Structure
The MAAE curriculum is divided into two parts: Compulsory courses and Elective courses, along with a mandatory research project. The program offers 68 credits in total, ensuring a deep understanding of adult education psychology and sociology.
| Course Code | Course Title | Credits |
| MAE-001 | Understanding Adult Education | 6 |
| MAE-002 | Policy Planning and Implementation | 6 |
| MAE-003 | Knowledge Management and Information Technology | 6 |
| MAEP-001 | Dissertation/Project Work | 10 |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU MAAE Admission
Completing a degree after an IGNOU MAAE Admission opens doors to various roles in the social and educational sectors. Graduates can find employment as Project Officers in literacy missions, Community Development Officers in NGOs, or Research Assistants in educational research organizations. Additionally, the degree qualifies individuals to work as Adult Education Instructors and Trainers in corporate social responsibility (CSR) wings of various companies. For those interested in higher studies, this Master’s degree provides a solid foundation for pursuing a PhD in Adult Education or Lifelong Learning.
🔗 Also Read
These related pages provide additional clarity on syllabus structure, study resources, and assignment guidelines associated with this programme.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is there an entrance exam for IGNOU MAAE Admission?
No, there is no entrance examination for this program. Admission is strictly based on the eligibility of having a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
Q2. What is the total duration to complete the program?
While the minimum duration is 2 years, students are given a maximum of 4 years to complete all credits and the project work associated with their IGNOU MAAE Admission.
Q3. Can I apply for IGNOU MAAE Admission if I am working?
Yes, the program is designed for ODL (Open and Distance Learning), allowing working professionals to balance their studies and job responsibilities effectively.
Q4. When is the last date for IGNOU MAAE Admission?
The last date varies by session. Generally, for July sessions, it is late summer, and for January sessions, it is early winter. Always verify on the official portal.
Q5. How do I submit assignments after IGNOU MAAE Admission?
Assignments must be submitted to your allotted Study Centre coordinator before the deadline mentioned in the assignment booklet for each course.