Ready to advance your career? Discover how to apply for the NOUN Postgraduate Application Form 2025/2026. Get a detailed guide on PGD, M.Sc, and Ph.D admissions, requirements, and the step-by-step application process for the National Open University of Nigeria.
Are you looking to deepen your academic knowledge, boost your professional qualifications, or embark on groundbreaking research? The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) offers a fantastic opportunity to achieve these goals through its diverse range of Postgraduate Diploma (PGD), Master of Science (M.Sc), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) programs.
For the 2025/2026 academic session, NOUN is once again opening its doors to ambitious individuals like you.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NOUN postgraduate form application process, from understanding the requirements to successfully submitting your form.
Let’s get started on your journey to higher academic achievement!
Understanding NOUN Postgraduate Admissions: What You Need to Know
NOUN operates an open and flexible admission system, making postgraduate education accessible to a wide range of candidates. Unlike conventional universities with strict admission windows, NOUN’s application process is often ongoing throughout the year, with specific deadlines for each admission batch.
This flexibility allows you to apply when you’re ready, fitting your academic pursuits around your professional and personal commitments.
Key NOUN Postgraduate Programmes Available for 2025/2026
NOUN offers a rich array of postgraduate programs across various faculties. Whether you’re interested in management, education, science, social sciences, or arts, there’s likely a program that fits your aspirations. The available programs usually include:
- Postgraduate Diploma (PGD): These programs are designed for individuals who want to specialize in a particular field, often serving as a bridge to Master’s degrees or for professional development.
- Master of Science (M.Sc), Master of Arts (M.A), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Education (M.Ed), Master of Laws (LL.M): These are advanced degrees focusing on in-depth study, research, and professional application in specific disciplines.
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D): The highest academic degree, involving extensive research, original contribution to knowledge, and a comprehensive thesis.
It’s always a good idea to check the NOUN School of Postgraduate Studies (SPGS) website for the full list of programs and their specific specializations for the 2025/2026 academic session, as new programs may be introduced or existing ones updated.
Essential Requirements for NOUN Postgraduate Application 2025/2026
Before you even think about filling out the form, it’s crucial to confirm you meet the basic eligibility criteria. NOUN’s requirements are generally clear, but they do vary slightly based on the level of study (PGD, M.Sc, or Ph.D).
General Requirements for All Postgraduate Applicants
- O’Level Credits: All applicants, regardless of the program, must possess a minimum of five (5) credit passes, including English Language and Mathematics, obtained at not more than two sittings in the SSCE/GCE/NECO/NABTEB examinations. Some programs might accept a pass in Mathematics if it’s not directly relevant to the course, but it’s safer to have a credit.
- Transcripts: Official academic transcripts from all previously attended institutions are mandatory. You’ll need to arrange for these to be sent directly from your former university/polytechnic to the NOUN School of Postgraduate Studies.
Specific Requirements by Programme Type
- For Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) Programmes:
- A Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university with a minimum of a Pass.
- OR a Higher National Diploma (HND) with a minimum of Lower Credit from a recognized polytechnic.
- Specific PGD programs may have additional requirements (e.g., PGD in Legislative Drafting requires being called to the Bar).
- For Master’s Degree Programmes (M.Sc, M.A, MBA, etc.):
- A Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university with a minimum of a Second Class Lower (2:2) division in the relevant field of study.
- OR a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in a related field of study from a recognized university.
- In some cases, holders of a lower classification (e.g., Third Class) with a minimum of 2 years of relevant post-qualification experience might be considered on individual merit.
- For Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) Programmes:
- A Master’s Degree in a relevant field of study from a recognized university.
- A minimum weighted average score of not less than 60% or a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.0 on a 5.0-point scale (or equivalent). Please note that some departments may have higher CGPA requirements.
- A brief research proposal (synopsis) for your intended PhD topic, usually not more than two pages.
- Attendance at a screening interview (oral/written) after your application has been pre-qualified by the relevant department.
- Two (2) reference letters, typically from academic referees who can attest to your academic capabilities.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for NOUN Postgraduate Admission 2025/2026
The NOUN postgraduate application process is primarily online. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth application:
- Visit the NOUN Application Portal: Go to the official NOUN portal:
https://www.nouonline.nou.edu.ng. - Navigate to Admission: On the homepage, look for and click on “Apply for Admission.”
- Select Programme Type: Choose “Postgraduate Programme.”
- Check Eligibility (Optional but Recommended): Before proceeding, you can click on “Am I qualified” to check the specific requirements for your desired Faculty, Department, and Programme. This helps confirm your eligibility upfront.
- Fill the Pre-Payment Form: After confirming eligibility, proceed to fill out the pre-payment form. You will be redirected to the Remita website (
www.remita.net) to make payment for the application form.- Application Form Fee:
- PGD & Master’s Programs: ₦7,500 (Seven Thousand Five Hundred Naira only).
- Ph.D Programs: ₦10,000 (Ten Thousand Naira only).
- Application Form Fee:
- Generate RRR and Make Payment:
- Generate your Remita Retrieval Reference (RRR) number.
- Proceed to make the payment using any of the available options:
- Online Payment: Pay directly with your debit/credit card on the Remita platform. This is usually faster as it grants immediate access to the application form.
- Bank Branch: Print the RRR slip and take it to any commercial bank in Nigeria for payment.
- Continue Application After Payment:
- If you paid online with a card, you will typically be automatically redirected to the application form.
- If you paid at a bank, return to the NOUN portal, click on “Continue After Payment,” and input your Unique ID (generated earlier) and RRR number.
- Fill the Online Application Form: Complete the application form accurately and thoroughly. Ensure all fields marked with a red star (*) are filled, as they are compulsory. Upload all required documents as specified (e.g., passport photograph, O’level results, degree certificates, NYSC discharge/exemption certificate, etc.).
- Create Password and Login: After successful form submission, you will usually receive an eight-digit application form number (AFN) as a pop-up message and via email. You will then be prompted to create a password. Use your AFN and the newly created password to log in and review/edit your form if necessary.
- Submit and Print: Once satisfied, submit your application. It’s advisable to print out your application summary or acknowledgment slip for your records.
- Forward Transcripts: Ensure your former institutions send your official academic transcripts directly to the Secretary, School of Postgraduate Studies, National Open University of Nigeria, Jabi Cadastral Zone, Abuja. This is a critical step for your admission.
- PhD Specific Step: For PhD applicants, after submission, you will need to send a hardcopy of your updated CV, a brief research proposal (not more than two pages), birth certificate/declaration of age, copies of credentials (from O’levels to Masters), receipt of payment for the form, and two reference letters to the Secretary, School of Postgraduate Studies. You will then be invited for an oral/written interview if pre-qualified.
Important Note: Do not use different names on your documents. Ensure all your names (on certificates, birth certificate, etc.) are consistent.
Important Considerations and Timelines
- Admission is Not Instant for PhD: For PhD programs, admission is not immediate. It’s based on the availability of supervisors, and screening interviews are typically conducted once per semester as per the School of Postgraduate Studies’ academic calendar.
- Transcript Submission: This is a crucial, often overlooked step. Your admission will not be finalized until your transcripts are received and verified by NOUN. Start this process early!
- Keep Records: Always keep copies of your RRR, payment receipts, application form printouts, and any communication with NOUN.
- Stay Updated: While NOUN’s admissions are generally continuous, specific deadlines for batch processing or program intakes can occur. Regularly check the official NOUN School of Postgraduate Studies website (
spgs.nou.edu.ng) for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding application closing dates and any changes in procedures for the 2025/2026 academic session. As of now (July 2025), the application for 2025/2026 is expected to be ongoing.
FAQs About NOUN Postgraduate Application 2025/2026
Q1: Is the NOUN Postgraduate Application Form for 2025/2026 currently out?
A: Yes, the National Open University of Nigeria typically has an ongoing admission process. While specific deadlines for certain batches may exist, you can generally apply for postgraduate programs for the 2025/2026 academic session now.
Always confirm on the official NOUN website.
Q2: How much is the NOUN Postgraduate Application Form for 2025/2026?
A: The application form fee for Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) and Master’s programs is generally ₦7,500, while for Ph.D programs, it is ₦10,000.
Q3: Do I need JAMB for NOUN Postgraduate admission?
A: No, you do not need JAMB for NOUN Postgraduate admission. JAMB is primarily for undergraduate admissions in Nigeria.
Q4: What is the minimum academic requirement for a Master’s degree at NOUN?
A: For a Master’s degree, you generally need a Bachelor’s Degree with a minimum of a Second Class Lower (2:2) division from a recognized university in a relevant field. A Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in a related field is also acceptable.
Q5: Can I apply for a Ph.D at NOUN if my Master’s CGPA is below 4.0?
A: For a Ph.D, NOUN generally requires a Master’s degree with a minimum weighted average of 60% or a CGPA of 4.0 on a 5.0-point scale.
However, some departments may have higher requirements. It’s crucial to check the specific requirements for your chosen Ph.D program.
Q6: How long does it take for NOUN to process postgraduate applications?
A: The processing time varies. For PGD and Master’s applications, it can be relatively quick once all documents, especially transcripts, are received and verified.
For Ph.D applications, the process is longer as it involves departmental evaluations, supervisor availability checks, and interviews.
Q7: What documents are essential for the NOUN postgraduate application?
A: Essential documents include: your O’level certificate(s), Bachelor’s/HND/Master’s degree certificate(s), academic transcripts (sent directly from your previous institution), birth certificate/declaration of age,
NYSC discharge/exemption certificate (for Nigerian graduates), passport photograph, and for PhD, a brief research proposal and two reference letters.
Conclusion: Your Postgraduate Journey Awaits!
Applying for a postgraduate program at NOUN is a strategic step towards enhancing your academic profile and career prospects. With its flexible learning model and diverse program offerings, NOUN provides a unique opportunity for advanced studies.
By carefully following the application steps, meeting the requirements, and submitting all necessary documents, you’ll be well on your way to securing admission for the 2025/2026 academic session.
Embrace this chance to learn, grow, and achieve your intellectual ambitions with the National Open University of Nigeria!
📣 Share if helpful—spread the word below!