If you did not complete your first degree at UNN, applying for a postgraduate programme there may seem confusing. Even if you graduated from UNN, you may still be unsure about the process.

The portal works differently from what many applicants are used to, transcript requirements can be unclear, and many candidates do not fully understand how the computer based screening is conducted.

We have broken everything down in simple terms. You will understand your eligibility status, the entry requirements and what to expect during the screening and test process.

Eligibility and Entry Requirements 2025/2026 Session

If you studied at another institution, pay close attention to the “Special rules for non UNN graduates” in this section because missing documents such as transcripts, NYSC certificates, and referee reports are among the most common reasons applications are rejected.

General Entry Rules

  1. Based on previous admission sessions, UNN usually requires all postgraduate applicants to have five O-level credits in not more than two sittings, including English language.

  2. Applicants must also possess the relevant first degree or equivalent qualification for the programme they are applying for.

  3. Some departments also set minimum CGPA requirements. For instance, many master's programmes require at least a second class lower degree.

Postgraduate Diploma (PGD)

PGD programmes are designed mainly for candidates changing disciplines or those who need to strengthen their qualifications. UNN usually accepts:

  1. Graduates with at least a third class degree, provided they meet the minimum GPA requirement for the department. In some cases, HND holders with upper credit or professionals with qualifications such as ACCA, ICAN, and relevant experience may also be considered.

  2. Certain PGD programmes, such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and architecture, usually require a related academic background.

Master’s (M.Sc, M.A, M.Ed and MBA)

Typical master's admission requirements at UNN include the following:

  1. A minimum of a second class lower (2:2) in a related discipline. Some departments may require a second class upper (2:1), while candidates changing fields may need a PGD with a strong GPA.

  2. Professional master's programmes such as MBA and MPA may also require relevant work experience.

PhD and MPhil

PhD admission usually requires a master's degree from a recognised university. Additional conditions may include:

  1. Publications: Some programmes may require candidates to have at least one published article related to their proposed PhD work before graduation.

  2. Plagiarism and AI checks: Master’s project reports and PhD theses must be original and free from plagiarism or excessive AI generated content.

Special rules for Non UNN Graduates

If your first degree was obtained from another university, ensure that the following documents are ready, as they are commonly required:

  1. Official transcripts: These must be sent directly from your previous institution to the Secretary, College and School of Postgraduate Studies, before the deadline that will be announced. UNN usually requires both electronic and hard copies. If your transcript arrives late, your application may not be processed, so it is wise to request it early.

  2. NYSC proof: NYSC discharge or exemption certificates are compulsory. UNN does not accept “To Whom It May Concern” letters in place of the actual certificate.

  3. Referee reports: You will usually need to provide the email addresses of referees, who may receive links to submit their reports directly. Delayed referee reports can slow down your admission process.

How to Apply for UNN Postgraduate Admission 2025/2026 Session

UNN’s postgraduate application process is usually completed online, and all steps must be done through the official UNN portal:

  1. Visit the official UNN Postgraduate Application Portal at https://unnportal.unn.edu.ng/post_graduate_portal. Create an account if you are a new applicant, or log in if you have applied before.

  2. After logging in, click on “Postgraduate Applications” and proceed to the PG application form.

  3. On the postgraduate application page, click “Generate Invoice” to create your Remita Retrieval Reference (RRR). The application fee for the 2025/2026 session has not yet been announced, so confirm the exact amount on the portal before payment.

  4. After payment, print or save your payment receipt, as it may be required later.

  5. After making payment, return to the portal and complete the application form by filling in:

    • Your personal details

    • Programme details (PGD, MSc, MPhil, or PhD)

    • Academic history (institution attended, grade, CGPA, graduation year)

    • Department and intended area of study

    • Proposed research topic or supervisor where required

    • Referees’ email addresses

  6. Upload your passport photograph and all required credentials in the specified formats. The portal will not allow submission if required fields are incomplete. Documents to upload include:

    • Degree certificate or statement of result

    • NYSC discharge or exemption certificate

    • Birth certificate or age declaration

    • O-Level result

    • Payment receipt

    • Passport photograph

    • Referee details

UNN has consistently conducted postgraduate CBT screening for applicants into PGD, Master’s, and PhD programmes. The screening usually covers general reasoning, subject related questions, and research based questions for advanced programmes.

In previous sessions, screening dates were adjusted at different times, and applicants were advised to monitor the official portal for updates. Always rely on official information instead of rumours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What postgraduate programmes are available at UNN?
A: The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, offers Postgraduate Diploma (PGD), Master’s Degree, M.Phil., and PhD programmes across various faculties and departments.

Q: Who is eligible to apply for UNN postgraduate admission?
A: Candidates with the required academic qualifications, including a bachelor’s degree or Higher National Diploma depending on the programme, are eligible to apply for postgraduate admission at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Q: Can HND holders apply for UNN postgraduate admission?
A: Yes, candidates with Higher National Diploma qualifications can apply for postgraduate diploma programmes at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, provided they meet the admission requirements.

Q: Are transcripts required for UNN postgraduate admission?
A: Yes, official academic transcripts are required for postgraduate admission into the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and must be sent to the School of Postgraduate Studies.

Q: Can I apply for more than one postgraduate programme at UNN?
A: Applicants are generally expected to apply for only one postgraduate programme at a time at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.