NOUN Postgraduate School Fees – Updated Breakdown 2025

Get the complete, updated breakdown of NOUN Postgraduate School Fees for 2025. This guide covers tuition, acceptance, and other vital costs for your Master’s, PGD, and PhD programs at the National Open University of Nigeria.

Considering a postgraduate degree to boost your career or deepen your knowledge? The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) offers a flexible and accessible path to higher education. But before you dive in, understanding the financial aspect is key. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the updated breakdown of NOUN postgraduate school fees for 2025, ensuring you have all the information you need to plan your academic journey.

We’ll cover everything from initial registration to project defense, helping you budget effectively and avoid surprises.

Understanding the NOUN Fee Structure: What to Expect

NOUN’s fee structure is designed to be affordable and transparent, especially considering its open and distance learning model. Unlike some conventional universities with hefty yearly tuition, NOUN breaks down its fees into various components, paid per semester or for specific academic milestones.

This approach allows students to pay as they go, making postgraduate education more manageable. Let’s delve into the different categories of fees you’ll encounter.

A Detailed Look at NOUN Postgraduate Fees for New Students 2025

Starting a new program always comes with a few extra initial costs. For fresh postgraduate students at NOUN in 2025, here’s a typical breakdown of what you might expect to pay:

Application Form Fee: Before anything else, you’ll need to purchase the application form. For postgraduate programs (PGD and Master’s), this typically costs around ₦7,500. For PhD programs, it’s generally ₦10,000.
Semester Registration Fee: This is a recurring fee paid at the beginning of each semester. For new postgraduate students, it’s generally ₦10,000.
Caution Deposit: A one-time refundable fee that covers potential damages or defaults. For postgraduates, this is usually ₦7,000.
Orientation Fee: A small fee for orientation programs designed to introduce new students to the university system. This is typically ₦5,000.
Matriculation Fee: A one-time fee for official enrollment into the university. This is usually ₦3,000.
ID Card Fee: For your student identification card, expect to pay around ₦1,000.
Library Fee: This grants you access to the university’s library resources. It’s usually ₦5,000.
ICT Administration Charge: Covers the cost of IT services and infrastructure. This is typically ₦7,500.
E-Facilitation Fee: For online learning support and resources, expect to pay around ₦7,500.
Result Verification Fee: This might be a one-time fee for verifying your previous academic results, usually ₦10,000.

Estimated Total for New Postgraduate Students (First Semester): Based on the above, a new postgraduate student could expect to pay approximately ₦52,000 – ₦54,500 in their first semester, excluding course registration and exam fees which vary depending on the number of courses.

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NOUN Postgraduate Fees for Returning Students 2025: Semester by Semester

For returning postgraduate students, the fee structure becomes a bit more streamlined after the initial one-time payments. Here’s a look at the recurring and course-specific fees:

Semester Registration Fee: Still ₦10,000 per semester.
Library Fee: Remains ₦5,000 per semester.
ICT Administration Charge: Remains ₦7,500 per semester.
E-Facilitation Fee: Still ₦7,500 per semester.
Course Registration Fee: This is where the cost varies most.
- 2-Credit Unit Course: ₦4,000 per course.
- 3-Credit Unit Course: ₦5,000 per course.
Examination Registration Fee: Paid per course you register for examinations. For postgraduate students, this is typically ₦3,000 per course.

Important Note on Course Registration: The total amount you pay for course registration and examination fees each semester will depend on the number of courses you choose to register for. Always check your program’s course load and plan accordingly.

Project and Seminar Fees: Key Milestones in Your Postgraduate Journey

Beyond the regular semester and course fees, postgraduate students will encounter specific charges for their project work and seminars:

Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) Project Fee: If your program requires a project, expect to pay around ₦40,000.
Master’s Degree Project Fee: For Master’s students, the project fee is typically around ₦50,000.
Seminar Course Fee: Some postgraduate programs have dedicated seminar courses. The fee for this is generally ₦10,000.

These project and seminar fees are usually one-time payments made when you register for these specific components of your program.

How to Pay NOUN Postgraduate School Fees: A Step-by-Step Guide

Paying your NOUN fees is a straightforward process, primarily done online through the Remita platform. Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide:

Visit the NOUN Student Portal: Go to the official NOUN portal (https://www.nouonline.nou.edu.ng).
Log In: Use your matriculation number and password to log in.
Generate RRR: Navigate to the “Generate RRR” section (or similar, depending on the portal’s current layout).
Select Payment Type: Choose “Postgraduate” and then the specific fee type you want to pay (e.g., “Semester Registration,” “Course Registration,” “Project Fee”).
Enter Details: Fill in the required details, such as the semester, year, and the amount (the system usually auto-generates this for specific fees).
Generate Remita RRR: The system will generate a unique Remita Retrieval Reference (RRR) number.
Make Payment: You can pay using:
- Bank Branch: Print the RRR slip and take it to any commercial bank in Nigeria to make the payment.
- Online Banking/USSD: Use the RRR number to pay directly from your bank’s mobile app or via USSD code.
- Debit Card: Pay directly on the Remita platform using your ATM card.
Confirm Payment: After payment, return to the NOUN portal and click on “Continue After Payment.” Enter your RRR and matriculation number to confirm your payment.
Register Courses/Semester: Once payment is confirmed and reflects in your student account, proceed to register your courses for the semester or complete any other pending registrations.

Pro Tip: Always keep a record of your RRR numbers and payment receipts for future reference.

Important Considerations for NOUN Postgraduate Students

Official NOUN Website: Always rely on the official NOUN website (nou.edu.ng or https://www.nouonline.nou.edu.ng) for the most accurate and up-to-date fee information. Fee schedules can be subject to review.
Programme-Specific Fees: While this guide provides a general overview, some specialized postgraduate programs might have slightly different fee structures or additional charges. Always check the specific requirements for your chosen program.
Admission Requirements: Ensure you meet all the admission requirements for your chosen postgraduate program before applying. This typically includes a minimum of a second-class lower degree for Master’s programs or an HND for Postgraduate Diplomas, along with O’level credits including English and Mathematics.
Flexibility of Payments: NOUN’s semester-based payment system offers significant flexibility, allowing students to pay fees gradually rather than in one lump sum.
Stay Updated: NOUN often publishes updates on its website and through its study centers. Regularly check for any changes to fee schedules or payment procedures.

FAQs About NOUN Postgraduate School Fees

Q1: What is the total estimated cost for a NOUN Master’s degree?

A: The total cost for a NOUN Master’s degree can vary depending on the number of courses taken per semester and the program duration. However, for the first year, including all initial fees and typical course loads, you might budget anywhere from ₦100,000 to ₦150,000. Subsequent years will be less, as one-time fees are removed. Remember to factor in the ₦50,000 project fee as well.

Q2: Are NOUN postgraduate school fees paid per year or per semester?

A: NOUN postgraduate school fees are primarily paid per semester. There are some one-time fees (like matriculation and caution fees) paid during your first semester as a new student, but recurring fees like semester registration, course registration, and examination fees are paid each semester.

Q3: Can I pay NOUN postgraduate fees in installments?

A: While NOUN doesn’t typically offer a formal installment plan for individual semesters, the fact that you pay per semester and per course effectively allows you to manage your payments in smaller chunks. You pay for the courses you register for in a given semester, giving you flexibility.

Q4: Are there any hidden charges in NOUN postgraduate fees?

A: NOUN strives for transparency. The fees listed on their official portal and in their fee schedules are generally comprehensive. However, it’s always wise to account for minor personal expenses like internet data for online learning, textbooks (though NOUN provides course materials), and transport to study centers for exams if applicable.

Q5: What is the project fee for a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) at NOUN?

A: The project fee for a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) at NOUN is typically ₦40,000. This is a one-time payment made when you are ready to embark on your project.

Q6: How do I know the exact amount to pay for my courses each semester?

A: The NOUN student portal usually has a “Fees Schedule” or “Fee Calculator” section. You can select your program, level, and the courses you intend to register for, and the system will display the exact amount you need to pay for that semester.

Q7: When does NOUN postgraduate admission for 2025 begin?

A: While specific dates can vary, NOUN admissions are typically ongoing or announced well in advance. For the 2025/2026 academic session, keep an eye on the official NOUN website and trusted education news platforms. Some indications suggest admissions can commence around mid-year, with academic sessions starting later in the year, such as September. Always refer to the official NOUN website for the most accurate admission announcements.

Conclusion: Investing in Your Future with NOUN

Embarking on a postgraduate degree is a significant investment in your future, and understanding the financial commitment is the first step. The National Open University of Nigeria offers a flexible and relatively affordable option for advanced studies. By being aware of the updated fee breakdown for 2025, from initial registration to project fees, you can confidently plan your academic journey. Remember to always consult the official NOUN website for the most precise and current information to ensure a smooth and successful postgraduate experience. Your academic growth is within reach!

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