How many days is an IPO open for bidding?

One of the most common questions among new investors is about the IPO bidding duration, essentially, till how long individuals   can apply once an IPO opens in the market. Understanding the number of days IPO remains open helps ensure you don’t miss out on opportunities due to timing errors or assumptions.

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Typically, in most markets, the standard IPO subscription period for retail investors lasts three working days. During this time, investors can submit bids within the price band announced by the company. However, this window can sometimes vary slightly depending on the type of issue or the approval from market regulators. For example, if there’s a technical delay or a holiday in between, the bidding period may be extended by a day.

The process begins on the opening date, when the IPO is made available on various online platforms, such as banks, brokers, and trading apps, allowing investors to place bids through ASBA or UPI linked payment methods. Once the window closes, no new applications can be accepted, and bids submitted after the cut off are automatically rejected.

For institutional or anchor investors, the bidding often starts a day earlier. This gives them the first opportunity to participate, as their bids can influence overall market sentiment. The data from the first day usually sets the tone for retail participation.

Understanding the IPO bidding duration also helps investors plan effectively. Since demand can surge on the final day, leading to system slowdowns, many expert investors prefer to apply early. Applying during the initial days ensures your UPI mandate is processed on time and avoids any last minute technical errors.
Once the subscription period ends, the next steps, including allotment, refunds (if any), and listing, follow a fixed schedule set by the issuer and the exchanges. Typically, allotment results are announced within a week after the IPO closes.

In essence, while the number of days IPO remains open is usually just three, being proactive within that window makes all the difference. By understanding timelines and acting early, investors can avoid rushed decisions and increase their chances of smooth participation in upcoming offerings.