IGNOU Post Basic BSc Nursing Admission 2026 (PB BScN) – Eligibility, Entrance Exam, Fees & Complete Process
Trying to apply for IGNOU Post Basic BSc Nursing Admission 2026 but feeling confused about eligibility, entrance exam, or which portal to use?
You’re not alone.
Most in-service nurses face the same problem. Some apply on the wrong portal, some are unsure about eligibility, and many don’t understand how the entrance exam actually works.
Here’s the good news.
The process is simple — once you understand the correct steps.
Once you understand the correct steps, everything becomes clear and manageable.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything in a simple way — eligibility, entrance exam, application process, counselling, fees, and how selection actually happens.
If you are new to IGNOU, you can also check the complete IGNOU student help guide
to understand your overall journey.
If you are exploring multiple courses, you can also check the complete IGNOU admission process to understand how admissions work across different programmes.
IGNOU Post Basic BSc Nursing Admission 2026 – Quick Summary
IGNOU Post Basic BSc Nursing Admission 2026 is conducted through the OPENNET entrance exam. Candidates must apply online through the official nursing portal, meet eligibility criteria, and qualify the entrance test to get admission. The programme is designed for in-service nurses with GNM qualification and required experience.
Key Highlights:
- Admission is based on OPENNET entrance exam
- Application mode is online via nursing portal
- Eligibility requires GNM + RNRM + experience
- Programme fee is ₹23,000 per year
- Selection depends on merit and seat availability
What is IGNOU Post Basic BSc Nursing Programme?
IGNOU Post Basic BSc Nursing (PB BScN) is a degree programme designed for in-service nurses who want to upgrade from a diploma (GNM) to a bachelor’s degree.
If you are already working as a nurse and want career growth, promotions, or higher studies, this programme can help you move forward.
It is specially designed for:
Registered Nurses (RN)
Registered Midwives (RNRM)
Unlike regular courses, this programme focuses on working professionals and allows them to continue their job while studying.
Why Choose IGNOU Post Basic BSc Nursing?
If you are already working as a nurse, flexibility becomes very important.
IGNOU allows you to continue your job while completing your degree, which makes it a practical option for in-service professionals.
The programme is recognized and helps in career growth, promotions, and higher education opportunities.
👉 Simple logic: You upgrade your qualification without leaving your job.
IGNOU PB BSc Nursing 2026 Important Dates
Timing plays a very important role in this admission.
Application starts from 06 February 2026
Last date to apply is 05 March 2026
Entrance exam duration is 2.5 hours
If you miss the last date, you will not be able to apply for this session.
So always apply early to avoid last-minute issues.
IGNOU PB BSc Nursing Eligibility Criteria 2026
Now the most important question — are you eligible?
Let’s understand this clearly.
You must meet one of these two conditions.
If you are from 10+2 background:
You must have 10+2 qualification
You must have a 3-year GNM diploma
You must have at least 2 years of experience after RNRM
If you are from 10th background:
You must be 10th pass
You must have a 3-year GNM diploma
You must have at least 5 years of experience after RNRM
In both cases, one condition is compulsory.
You must be a Registered Nurse and Registered Midwife (RNRM)
For male nurses, if midwifery was not included in GNM, then a 6–9 months nursing certificate approved by Indian Nursing Council is required.
If your experience is less than required, you should not apply.
IGNOU PB BSc Nursing Entrance Exam (OPENNET)
This is the core of the admission process.
IGNOU conducts an entrance exam called OPENNET.
Without clearing this exam, you cannot get admission.
Selection depends on your performance and seat availability.
So preparation matters a lot.
IGNOU OPENNET Exam Pattern and Syllabus
Before applying, it is important to understand how the exam works.
The exam is objective, which means it consists of multiple-choice questions.
Questions are generally based on:
Nursing fundamentals
Medical-surgical nursing
Community health nursing
Basic science related to nursing
The total duration of the exam is 2.5 hours.
You don’t need to prepare anything outside your nursing background, but your concepts should be clear.
If your basics are strong, you can perform well in this exam.
How to Apply for IGNOU PB BSc Nursing 2026
Now let’s talk about the actual application process.
This is where most students get confused, but it is quite simple.
Start by visiting the official IGNOU nursing admission portal: https://ignounursing.samarth.edu.in/
Then click on New Registration and create your account using a username and password.
After registration, log in and fill the application form carefully.
You will need to upload your passport-size photo and signature.
Once everything is filled, pay the entrance exam fee of ₹1000 using debit card, credit card, or net banking.
After submission, download the application form and take a printout.
Keep it safe for future use.
Programme Study Centre (PSC) – Important Detail
While filling the form, you will be asked to select a Programme Study Centre.
This is the place where your academic and practical activities will be conducted.
You need to select:
One preferred centre
Two backup centres
If your first choice is not available, IGNOU may allot you another centre.
So choose carefully.
IGNOU PB BSc Nursing Fees 2026
Many students get confused about fees.
The programme fee is ₹23,000 per year.
But you should not pay this during the application process.
You will pay it only after you clear the entrance exam and get selected.
IGNOU PB BSc Nursing Counselling Process
After clearing the entrance exam, you will be called for counselling.
This is the final step before admission.
During counselling:
You will be selected based on merit
You will confirm your study centre
You will submit your documents
You must carry original documents along with self-attested photocopies.
If documents are incorrect or missing, your admission may be cancelled.
Documents Required for IGNOU PB BSc Nursing Admission 2026
Before applying, make sure you have all documents ready.
GNM certificate
RNRM registration proof
Experience certificate
Educational certificates
ID proof
Having everything ready will save you from last-minute stress.
How Selection Happens in IGNOU Nursing Admission
Many students think clearing the exam is enough.
But selection depends on multiple factors.
Your entrance exam marks
Your rank
Availability of seats
If your score is higher, your chances of getting admission are better.
How to Prepare for IGNOU OPENNET Exam
If you want to improve your chances, you need a simple strategy.
Focus on your GNM subjects
Revise core nursing topics
Practice questions
Study regularly instead of last-minute preparation
Consistency is the key here. You should check out practice IGNOU previous papers
Common Mistakes You Should Avoid
Students often make small mistakes that create big problems.
Applying on wrong portal
Not checking eligibility
Missing deadline
Uploading incorrect documents
If you avoid these, your admission process becomes much smoother.
What Happens After Admission?
Once your admission to BSCN(PB) is confirmed, you will start using IGNOU student login system regularly.
You will need them for important tasks like downloading your ID card, submitting assignments, and filling exam forms.
For example, before exams, you must download IGNOU ID card to enter the exam hall.
Assignments are also a crucial part of your course. You need to complete and submit them on time to become eligible for exams. If you’re not sure how to do it, check the complete IGNOU assignment submission process.
Related IGNOU Guides You Should Check
To make your journey easier, you can also read:
Final Thoughts
IGNOU Post Basic BSc Nursing Admission 2026 is a great opportunity for in-service nurses who want to grow in their career.
The process may look confusing at first, but once you understand the correct steps, everything becomes simple.
Just make sure you apply on time, check your eligibility, and prepare properly.
IGNOU PB BSc Nursing Admission 2026 FAQs
The last date to apply is expected to be 05 March 2026. You should apply early to avoid last-minute issues.
Yes, OPENNET is compulsory. Admission is not possible without qualifying it.
You must be an RNRM with GNM and required experience (2 or 5 years depending on qualification).
Use the official nursing portal: Click here
The fee is ₹23,000 per year, payable after selection.
You will be called for counselling, document verification, and final admission.
“Still have questions? Drop your query in comments or contact us on WhatsApp.”
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