So, you finally looked at your IGNOU ID card and realised something was off. Maybe your name is misspelled (congratulations, you have a new identity!), your photo looks like someone else (or worse, like a ghost), or the date of birth has aged you before your time.
Don’t worry, IGNOU allows corrections for such errors. But like every official process, it comes with some steps, some patience, and a little paperwork.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the exact process to correct mistakes in your IGNOU ID card, ensuring that it reflects your real identity—because let’s face it, you don’t want to explain to future employers why your name suddenly changed on official records!
Why Is the IGNOU ID Card Important?
Before we dive into the process, let’s talk about why this little piece of laminated paper (or PDF, for the digital version) is so important:
1. Essential for Exams: You can’t sit for your term-end exams without it. Imagine preparing for months only to be denied entry because of a mismatched name. That’s a nightmare no one wants!
2. Access to Study Material: Your ID is required to collect study materials from the IGNOU regional center.
3. Student Verification: Whether you’re applying for internships, jobs, or any other educational benefits, your IGNOU ID card serves as proof that you’re a student.
Now that you understand why it’s important, let’s fix it!
Common Errors in IGNOU ID Cards
Mistakes can happen when registering for IGNOU courses, whether due to typos, technical issues, or incorrect information provided during admission. Here are some of the most common errors students need to correct:
• Name Spelling Mistakes: Because being called “Rahuul” instead of “Rahul” can be a lifelong struggle.
• Wrong Parent’s Name: You don’t want your dad’s name to be different on your official records (trust me, that’s a headache to fix later).
• Incorrect Date of Birth: If IGNOU has made you a year older or younger, it’s best to get it fixed before graduation.
• Wrong Photograph: If your ID card looks like it belongs to someone else (or worse, an AI-generated version of you), it’s time for a new one.
Step-by-Step Process to Make Changes in Your IGNOU ID Card
Now that we know the common errors, let’s get them fixed!
Step 1: Identify the Mistake and Gather the Required Documents
Before you submit a request, make sure you know exactly what needs to be corrected and gather supporting documents. Here’s what you’ll need based on the type of correction:
For Name, DOB, or Parent’s Name Corrections
• A copy of your 10th or 12th mark sheet, birth certificate, Aadhaar card, or any valid government document that has the correct details.
• Your IGNOU enrollment number (because without it, your request will be lost in an ocean of paperwork).
For Photograph Change
• A recent passport-sized photograph (preferably one where you don’t look like you just woke up).
• A self-attested application requesting the photo update.
Important Tip: Ensure your documents are clear and readable. Blurry, cropped, or edited documents may delay the process (or worse, get rejected altogether!).
Step 2: Write an Application for the Correction
IGNOU requires students to submit a formal application to request any changes. This doesn’t have to be overly complicated, but it should be professional and to the point.
Here’s a simple format you can use:
To,
The Regional Director,
IGNOU Regional Centre, [Your Region]
Subject: Request for Correction in IGNOU ID Card
Respected Sir/Madam,
I am a student of IGNOU, enrolled in the [Your Program Name], with enrollment number [Your Enrollment Number]. I recently noticed an error in my ID card and kindly request a correction.
Incorrect Detail: [Mention the incorrect detail]
Correct Detail: [Mention the correct detail]
I have attached the necessary documents for verification. Kindly process my request at the earliest.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
(Your Name)
Step 3: Submit Your Request
Now comes the important part—submitting your request. IGNOU provides two ways to do this:
1. Offline Submission (For the Traditionalists)
• Print your application and attach photocopies of your supporting documents.
• Visit your nearest IGNOU Regional Centre and submit the request in person.
• Get an acknowledgment receipt (because proof of submission is always a lifesaver!).
2. Online Submission (For the Digital Nomads)
• Some IGNOU regional centers allow online requests.
• Email your application along with scanned copies of your documents to the official email ID of your regional center (check the IGNOU website for this information).
• Wait for confirmation from IGNOU (and check your spam folder, just in case).
Step 4: Follow Up and Be Patient
IGNOU’s processing time varies, but on average, it can take anywhere between 2 weeks to 2 months to process your correction request.
How to Track Your Request?
• Visit your regional center in person and inquire about the status.
• Call or email your regional center (although getting a quick response is like winning a lottery).
• Check your IGNOU student dashboard for updates.
If it’s been over two months with no update, consider sending a reminder email or visiting the regional center again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I correct my IGNOU ID card details after completing my course?
Yes, but it’s highly recommended to make corrections while you’re still enrolled. Once you graduate, getting changes done can be a much longer process.
2. Will I get a new IGNOU ID card after the correction?
Yes, IGNOU will issue an updated ID card. If you submitted the request offline, you’ll likely need to collect it from the regional center.
3. How long does it take to get corrections approved?
It can take anywhere between 15 days to 2 months, depending on your regional center’s workload.
4. Is there a fee for making corrections in the IGNOU ID card?
As of now, there is no fee for minor corrections. However, it’s always best to check with your regional center.
Final Thoughts
Getting your IGNOU ID card corrected isn’t super difficult, but it does require following the proper steps and, most importantly, having patience.
To summarize:
✔ Identify the mistake and gather necessary documents.
✔ Write a formal application.
✔ Submit it at your regional center (or via email if allowed).
✔ Follow up and wait for confirmation.
Once your new ID card is ready, hold it proudly—because that’s the face and name that will officially represent you at IGNOU!
Now go, get that mistake fixed! And don’t forget to smile for the new photo!
