Nigeria Open University (NOUN) Admission Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide

Nov 06, 2025 0

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) offers a flexible and accessible approach to higher education. Understanding the admission requirements is the first step towards achieving your academic goals. This guide provides a detailed overview of the requirements for various programs and entry levels at NOUN.

General Admission Requirements

Generally, the requirements for getting admission into the National Open University of Nigeria include:

Five (5) credits in the SSCE/GCE O’Level/NECO/NABTEB or equivalents at not more than two (2) sittings obtained in subjects relevant to the proposed field(s) of study.
The five (5) credits must include credits in Mathematics, English, and 3 other relevant subjects.

It's important to note that a JAMB registration number is required for all admission pathways at NOUN, including General Admission, Direct Entry, and Inter-University Transfer, primarily for data verification and eligibility assessment.

NOUN students are excluded from participating in the NYSC program. Graduates will receive a “Letter of exclusion from NYSC”, which grants them the same rights as an NYSC certificate.

Undergraduate Programmes

NOUN offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to excel in various fields. The requirements vary depending on the program and entry level.

Read also: The Rise of Nigerian Basketball

100 Level

Five credits in the SSCE/GCE O'Level/NECO/NABTEB or equivalents at not more than two (2) sittings obtained in subjects relevant to the proposed field(s) of study.
Candidates seeking admission into ALL FACULTIES must have credits in English Language and Mathematics at not more than two (2) sittings in NECO/SSCE, GCE or NABTEB.

Specific faculty requirements include:

Faculty of Arts: One of the five credits or merits must be in English Language, while at least two should be in subjects relevant to the proposed field. A credit or merit in French is expected for admission into the French Programme.
Faculty of Management Sciences: Credit passes at Ordinary Level must include English and Mathematics.
Faculty of Education: Credit passes must include Mathematics and English Language for all programmes.
Faculty of Science: Credit passes must include Mathematics and English Language.
Faculty of Health Sciences: Specific requirements apply for B.N. Sc Nursing Science, including O'Level credits in English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
Faculty of Social Sciences: Credit passes must include Mathematics and English Language, while at least two should be in subjects relevant to the proposed field.

200 Level (Direct Entry)

Direct Entry is available for candidates with A'Level, NCE, OND, HND, or equivalent qualifications.

Five credits in the SSCE/GCE O'Level/NECO/NABTEB or equivalents at not more than two (2) sittings obtained in subjects relevant to the proposed field(s) of study. A credit level pass in Mathematics and English at 'O' Levels is required for all programmes.
National Diploma at Upper Credit from recognized institutions.
Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in subject(s) relevant to the proposed programme of study with a minimum of one merit and two passes.
International Baccalaureates, Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB) with at least two 'A' Level papers in relevant subjects and prerequisite number of 'O' Level credit passes.

In a significant development, the Vice-Chancellor of the esteemed National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has officially approved the review of the admission requirements for the Ordinary National Diploma (OND) program. According to the new guidelines, individuals who possess a lower class OND will now be eligible for direct admission into 200 level programs at NOUN.

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free transition, the responsibility of implementing the necessary changes on the NOUN application portal has been assigned to the Director of Management Information Systems. This groundbreaking decision made by the Vice-Chancellor and Senate of NOUN is expected to attract a wider pool of applicants and foster inclusivity in higher education.

Specific Direct Entry Requirements:

B.Sc. Economics: Minimum of lower credit at OND level in Business Administration, Accounting, Banking & Finance and other related courses.
B.Sc. Biology: NCE with credit passes in Biology/Chemistry or Integrated Science/Chemistry. OND with Upper Credit pass in Biology, Microbiology and other related programmes.

300 Level

Minimum of lower credit at HND level in Business Administration, Accounting, Banking and Finance, Insurance, Public Administration, Taxation, Marketing, Purchasing and Supply, Statistics, Mathematics and other related courses.
Candidates with valid licence issued by EHORECON may be admitted into 300 Level of the programme provided they have any of the following qualifications in addition to 'O' Level requirements:
- A Higher National Diploma (HND) in Environmental Health Technology.
- The Public Health Inspector's Diploma of the Royal Society of Health (RSH) or West African Health Examination Board (WAHEB) Diploma for Public Health Superintendent or Diploma in Community Health Officer.

Postgraduate Programmes

To qualify for admission into any of the postgraduate programmes of the University, a candidate must meet all matriculation requirements of at least five (5) credit passes including English Language and Mathematics.

Postgraduate Diploma Programmes

Candidates must possess either:

A minimum of pass Bachelors Degree in any discipline from a University recognized by the Senate of the NOUN.
A Higher National Diploma with a minimum of Lower Credit.

For the Postgraduate Diploma in Legislative Drafting, the candidate must have been called to the Bar.

Master's Degree Programmes

Candidates must possess either:

A Bachelors Degree with a minimum of second class lower in the relevant field of study from a University recognized by the Senate of the NOUN. However, holders of lower classification and with a minimum of 2 years of relevant post-qualification experience may be considered on individual merit.
A Postgraduate Diploma in related field of study from a recognized University.
A Higher National Diploma with a minimum of Upper Credit in the relevant field of study.

For the Commonwealth Executive MBA/MPA Programmes (CEMBA/CEMPA):

Read also: Nigeria's Thriving Music

Five (5) Credit passes, including English Language and Mathematics, at the 'O' Level as basic requirement.
A first degree from any university/institution recognized by the Senate of NOUN or HND (Lower Credit) for Polytechnic in any discipline.
Candidates should possess at least 3 years working experience from a recognised organisation.
Evidence of Professional Certification (e.g ICAN, ACCA, NIM, CIBN, CIPM, ANAN, CIS ETC) is an added advantage.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Programmes

Candidates must possess:

A Master's degree in relevant fields of study from a university recognized by the Senate of NOUN with a minimum score average of not less than 60% or a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.5 on a 5-point scale.
Candidates with a CGPA not below 3.50 on a 5.00 scale can apply for PhD/MPhil admission.
Candidates applying for PhD Law must possess Master of Laws (LLM) degree or MPhil from an approved university with a weighted average which shall not be less than 60% or a minimum CGPA of 4.00 on a 5.00-point scale.

Candidates for PhD programmes will be invited for an interactive session before an offer of admission is made.

Admission Process

The NOUN admission process is designed to be straightforward and transparent.

Application: Fill the online form and pay the required application fee as specified by NOUN.
Screening: The university screens applications based on the specified requirements. Candidates should ensure they meet all admission requirements before submitting their applications to avoid delays or rejection.
Registration: Successful candidates will receive instructions on completing registration, which involves paying the requisite fees.
Orientation: New students are encouraged to attend orientation programs held at the beginning of each semester.

Common Issues and Solutions:

Common issues include lacking required documents, submitting incomplete applications, or failing to meet minimum entry requirements. Applicants should not hesitate to reach out to the admission office for clarification or assistance.

After Admission

Congratulations on your admission into the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)! Here are a few important steps to take after being accepted:

Clearance/Screening Exercise: This is an essential step to ensure that students have fulfilled all necessary requirements and obligations.
Pay Semester Registration Fee: NOUN will require you to pay a semester registration fee to secure your admission.
Course Registration: Register for your courses for the semester or academic session through the online course registration system.
Examination Registration: Pay the examination registration fee for each registered course(s).
Access Learning Resources: Utilize course materials, lecture notes, e-books, and online libraries.
Attend Orientation: Familiarize yourself with university policies, resources, and support services.
Begin Classes: Start your classes (facilitation).
Take Tutor Marked Assignments (TMAs): NOUN requires payment of all required registration fees for each semester or academic session before you can be allowed to take their TMAs.
Seek Support: If you have any questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to the relevant departments or support services at NOUN.

Stay organized, manage your time effectively, and make the most of the opportunities available to you at NOUN.

NOUN Admission Processing & Requirements

Additional Information:

Tuition fees at NOUN are designed to be affordable and accessible. Fees do not include the cost of non-official services or other learning materials.

Examinations at NOUN are conducted in a structured and secure environment at designated study centers across the country. However, in some cases, virtual exams might be offered.