National Open University of Nigeria admission requirements

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is a non conventional university with it’s unique academic operation that provides flexible learning opportunities for students across Nigeria. Established in 2002, NOUN is designed to provide education opportunity to those who may not be able to attend traditional universities due to certain reasons, such as work commitments or location barrier.

This post focuses on National Open University of Nigeria admission requirements for prospective students seeking to gain admission into the university.

General Admission Requirements for NOUN

Before we discuss the course specific  requirements for different courses, it’s important to understand the general admission criteria that apply to all applicants:

1. Age Requirement: Candidates must be at least 16 years old by the time of admission.
2. O’Level Requirements:
   • All applicants are required to possess a minimum of five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects. This includes English Language and Mathematics, obtained in not more than two sittings.
   • Acceptable examination bodies include WAEC, NECO, or GCE.
3. Application Process:
   • Candidates must apply online through the NOUN official website and pay the necessary application fee.
   • After completing the application, candidates are required to print out their application form for future reference.

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate Programs

For those seeking admission into undergraduate programs at NOUN, the following specific criteria apply:

1. Direct Entry Programs:
   • Candidates who wish to apply for direct entry must possess at least two A-Level passes, ND (National Diploma), or NCE (National Certificate in Education) in relevant subjects.
   • Applicants with a first degree or Higher National Diploma (HND) are also eligible to apply for programs at the 200 level.
2. UTME Candidates:
   • Candidates who are applying through JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) must score a minimum of 160 in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
   • UTME candidates must meet the general O’Level requirements mentioned earlier.
3. Specific Program Requirements:
   • Different programs may have unique requirements. For example:
     • Law: Candidates must have five O’Level credit passes including English Language, Literature in English, and Government.
     • Business Administration: Candidates should have credit passes in Mathematics and English Language, along with other relevant subjects.

Admission Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

For those looking to pursue postgraduate studies at NOUN, the admission criteria are as follows:

1. Master’s Degree Programs:
   • Candidates must possess a first degree in a relevant field with a minimum of Second Class Lower Division.
   • Candidates with a Third Class degree may be considered if they possess relevant professional qualifications or extensive work experience.
2. Doctorate Programs (Ph.D.):
   • Applicants must have a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum of Merit or Second Class Lower Division.
   • Candidates may also be required to submit a research proposal that demonstrates their intended area of study.
3. Postgraduate Diploma Programs:
   • A first degree in any discipline is required for admission into postgraduate diploma programs.

Special Admission Considerations

• Transfer Students: Students transferring from other universities may apply to NOUN, but they must provide official transcripts and meet the general admission requirements.
• International Students: Foreign students wishing to study at NOUN must possess equivalent qualifications to those required from Nigerian students, including English language proficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply to NOUN with awaiting results?
   • Yes, NOUN accepts candidates with awaiting results, but you must ensure that your results are available and submitted by the time you register for your courses.
2. What is the minimum JAMB score for admission?
   • The minimum JAMB score for admission into NOUN is 160, but higher scores may enhance your chances for competitive programs.
3. Does NOUN accept second-choice candidates?
   • NOUN does not operate on a first or second choice basis like conventional universities. You can apply directly to NOUN without worrying about choice preferences.
4. What are the modes of study at NOUN?
   • NOUN offers flexible learning opportunity including online lectures, physical study centers, and a comprehensive e-learning platform.

Conclusion

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) provides an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking to further their education in a flexible and accessible manner. Understanding the admission requirements is crucial for a successful application. Whether you are applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs, ensure that you meet the specified requirements and prepare your documents accordingly. With the right information and preparation, you can take a that important step towards achieving your educational goals at NOUN. Feel free to visit NOUN official website.