The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) skips the usual "Post UTME" exam. Instead, they accept students through UTME or Direct Entry, and you can pretty much apply through the admission portal at any time since admissions run year round for different sessions.
NOUN really opens the door for anyone looking for a flexible way to earn a degree. If you meet their admission requirements, you’re good to go, apply and start your studies.
Here, you'll find everything you need to know about getting into NOUN. We’ll break down the admission requirements and the steps to apply.
NOUN Admission Requirements for Undergraduates
NOUN invites students from all kinds of educational backgrounds. The admission process stays open and welcoming, but still keeps its academic standards high. Here’s what you need to get in as an undergraduate:
1. Educational Qualifications
If you want to get into NOUN’s undergraduate programs, here’s what you need:
First, you’ll need a Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSCE) or something similar.
You have to pass at least five subjects, English and Math are a must, and you can’t take more than two tries (in either WAEC or NECO exams) to get those credits.
If you don’t have the SSCE, that’s not the end of the road. NOUN also accepts the GCE O-Level or NABTEB results, as long as you meet the required subjects. Just make sure your results line up with what the program asks for.
2. Age Requirement
If you want to apply for an undergraduate program at the National Open University of Nigeria, you need to be at least 16 years old when you submit your application.
3. JAMB Registration
If you’re interested, sign up with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and pick NOUN as your top choice when you take the unified tertiary matriculation exam (UTME). Once you pass, you can get into the university’s undergraduate programs.
4. Online Application
If you want to apply to NOUN, start by heading to their official website and filling out the online application.
They’ll ask for your personal details and your educational background.
You’ll also need to upload some documents, things like your ID, your SSCE results, and your JAMB registration.
Don’t forget to pay the application fee. After you’re done, make sure you get a confirmation that your application went through.
NOUN Admission Requirements for Postgraduates
Thinking about going for a postgraduate program at NOUN? Make sure you know the admission requirements first; it makes the whole application process way easier.
1. Educational Qualifications
If you want to get into a postgraduate program at NOUN, you need a bachelor’s degree from a recognised school. It has to fit the program you’re applying for.
So, if you’re going for a master’s in Business Administration, your undergraduate degree should be in Business, Economics, or something similar.
2. Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA)
If you’re thinking about a postgraduate program at NOUN, you’ll usually need at least a Second Class Lower (2:2) from your undergraduate degree.
Some NOUN courses ask for a higher GPA, so take a look at the exact requirements for the program you want before applying.
3. Professional Experience
You don’t need work experience for every program, but it definitely helps your application stand out. Some programs, especially ones that focus on real world skills, really value professional experience in the field. That’s especially the case for MBAs and many professional postgraduate diplomas.
4. Supporting Documents
When you’re applying, you’ll need to gather a few important documents.
Start with the application form, fill it out completely.
Then, include your academic transcripts from any schools you’ve attended.
Add a detailed CV that covers your education and work history.
Don’t forget a personal statement where you talk about what drives you and what you hope to achieve. And if your program asks for them, include letters of recommendation.
NOUN Admission Requirements for PhD Applicants
The following are documents you will need to apply for a PhD program at the National Open University of Nigeria;
Birth Certificate/Declaration of Age
O-Level Certificate(s)
ND/HND/First Degree Certificates
Master's Degree Certificates
NYSC Certificate (if available)
Brief PhD proposal (PDF)
Most recent CV
TWO reference letters
Passport size photograph
Evidence of Payment for Admission Form(via Remita)
Evidence of payment for transcript (NOUN alumni only)
The university checks every application to make sure students qualify for their programs, so take a good look at the eligibility criteria for the program you want before you apply.
How to Apply for NOUN Admission 2025/2026
Here are the ways you can successfully apply for the admission form at the National Open University of Nigeria;
Start by heading to the NOUN Website.
On the Home Page, look for the Menu Bar and click “Apply for Admission.”
Pick either the Undergraduate or the Postgraduate Programme; right now, those are the only options.
Next, find “Choose Faculty” on the left side. Pick your Faculty member and fill out the form that appears.
Want to check the entrance criteria? There’s a link right below. Go ahead and click it if you need to. When you’re ready, hit “Apply.” You’ll get a UNIQUE ID. Write that down somewhere safe.
Click “Continue.” For payment, choose “Bank Branch.” Then tap the “Pay” button. Take your RRR number to any bank branch and make your payment there.
Once you’ve paid, head back to the site and repeat steps 1 to 3. This time, pick “Continue After Payment.” Enter your unique ID, RRR number, ‘r’ value, and program info, then hit “Proceed.”
Fill out the next form. Any field with a red star is required, so don’t skip those. When you’re done, click “Submit.”
Finally, print your admissions letter. To finish up, go to the nearest study centre for screening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the NOUN form out for 2025?
A: Yes, the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) released their admission forms for the 2025/2026 session early in the year, usually around January or February.
Q: How much are NOUN fees per semester?
A: NOUN school fees change from semester to semester. If you’re a new undergraduate, expect to pay about N55,000 to N58,000. That covers registration, caution, orientation, and a few other things.
Q: How many times does Noun give admission in a year?
A: You can apply to the school any semester; admissions never close. Just pick the term that works for you, and you’re good to go.
Q: How many semesters are there in NOUN?
A: Right now, NOUN runs two semesters each academic year, and they call them underscore 1 and underscore 2.
Q: Does a NOUN student do matriculation?
A: At NOUN, matriculation usually happens about a week after orientation. Orientation takes place at all the study centres across the country at the same time. After that, new students take the matriculation oath, and just like that, they officially become NOUN students.
