An ID card is an important document for every student of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). It proves that you are a registered student of the university. You need it while attending exams, visiting study centres, collecting books from regional centres, and even during practicals and assignments.
In this detailed article, we will explain how you can download your IGNOU ID card using your enrollment number, how old students can access their ID, and how to open the ID card PDF using the correct password.
IGNOU ID Card 2025
The IGNOU ID Card is a digital identification card issued by the university to its students after admission. It has your name, enrollment number, photograph, program name, and other important details. IGNOU ID cards are now provided in PDF format and can be downloaded online.
You must carry your ID card when:
- Attending term-end examinations (TEE)
- Visiting your study centre or regional centre
- Submitting your assignments
- Attending practical exams, workshops, and counseling sessions
Download IGNOU ID Card 2025 (For New Students)
After your IGNOU admission is confirmed, the university generates your student ID card. Here are the steps to download it:
- Visit the official IGNOU admission portal: https://ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in
- Click on “Login” at the top-right corner
- Enter your enrollment number, registered email ID, and password
- Once logged in, go to the “Services” or “ID Card” section
- Click on “Download ID Card”
- Your ID card will be downloaded in PDF format
📌 Note: This ID card is digitally signed by IGNOU and is valid without any physical signature.
What If You Forgot Your Password?
If you can’t log in, click on “Forgot Password” on the login page. Enter your email ID, and you will receive a password reset link. Make sure to use the same email ID that you used during IGNOU admission.
IGNOU ID Card Download for Old Students
If you took admission before 2019, your admission process was handled through the old IGNOU portal. For old students, downloading the ID card is slightly different.
🔹 For Students Admitted Before 2019:
- Visit your IGNOU Regional Centre website or contact the staff
- Some centres allow students to download old ID cards through a link
- If the online option is not available, you must:
- Visit the Regional Centre personally
- Show your enrollment number and identity proof
- Request for a printed ID card or get a soft copy by email
You can also email your Regional Centre with your enrollment number, name, and program details to ask for help.
IGNOU ID Card PDF Password – How to Open?
When you download your IGNOU ID card, the file is password-protected. You cannot open it without the correct password.
✅ Password Format:
Your ID card PDF password is your Date of Birth (DOB) in the format: DDMMYYYY
🔍 Example:
If your date of birth is 5th August 2002, then your password will be: 05082002
If you enter the wrong password, the file will not open. Make sure your DOB is the same as you provided during admission.
How to Re-download IGNOU ID Card?
Sometimes, students lose or delete their downloaded ID cards. In that case, you can download it again using the same method:
- Go to ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in
- Login using your enrollment number and password
- Go to the “Services” section
- Click “Download ID Card”
If you cannot log in, reset your password or contact IGNOU support.
Common Problems While Downloading IGNOU ID Card
| Problem | Reason | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Can’t log in | Wrong password or email | Use “Forgot Password” |
| ID Card not available | Admission not confirmed yet | Wait for 2–3 days after confirmation |
| Wrong password for PDF | Wrong DOB entered | Try DOB in DDMMYYYY format |
| File not opening | Damaged file | Re-download it from the portal |
Important Points to Remember
Always use the official IGNOU admission portal for downloading your ID card. Do not share your ID card PDF or password with anyone. You must bring a printed copy of your ID card to the exam hall. If your photo is missing or incorrect, contact your regional centre for correction. For old students, if your ID card is lost or damaged, you can apply for a duplicate ID card at your regional centre.
When is the IGNOU ID Card Available?
Your ID card is available for download only after your admission is approved by IGNOU. Usually, it takes 7–10 days after successful fee payment. You will get a confirmation email or SMS. Then, you can log in and download the card.
Do I Need to Print the ID Card?
Yes. IGNOU accepts printed copies of the ID card during:
- Exams
- Counseling sessions
- Practical or viva
- Visiting study centres
You can print the ID card in color or black and white. Lamination is also allowed.
Whom to Contact for Help?
If you face any problem, you can contact:
- Your IGNOU Regional Centre
- Email: ssc@ignou.ac.in (Student Service Centre)
- IGNOU Helpline: 011-29572513, 29533870
The IGNOU ID Card is one of the most important documents for your academic journey with IGNOU. Without it, you cannot appear in exams or access student services. The process to download it is very simple and can be done online using your enrollment number and date of birth. If you are an old student, just contact your regional centre for help. Always keep a printed copy with you during your course period. Stay updated, keep your ID card safe, and enjoy a smooth learning experience with IGNOU!
Neeraj Kumar is a dedicated IGNOU student and Educational Content Writer. He shares simple and useful guides about IGNOU Admissions, ID Cards, Assignments, and Exams to help fellow students understand and use IGNOU’s Online services easily.