What Is Open University Admission?

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Open university admission means you apply to study through a flexible, distance-learning system. You can learn online, use study centers, and fit your classes around work or family. Open universities help people who can’t attend normal day classes.

Why Choose Open University?

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- Flexible schedule: Study working hours or errands.

- Study anywhere: No need to move near a campus.

- Lower cost: Often cheaper than full-time university.

- Fast admission: Fewer steps, especially for NOUN and Miva.

Main Open Universities in Nigeria 2025/2026

National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)

NOUN is the biggest open university in Nigeria. It offers many courses and allows you to study at your own pace, online or via study centers.

New steps starting January 2025:

1. Send your NIN via SMS (to “55019” or “66019”) to get your JAMB Profile Code. This helps you get a JAMB Admission Letter just like regular universities.

2. Create your JAMB CAPS profile at a JAMB office or CBT center.

3. Visit the NOUN Admission Portal and click “How to do Things” to apply via the online form.

4. Upload your O’Level results (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB—at least 5 credits including English and Maths).

5. Pay application fee (₦5,000 for undergraduate).

6. If required, attend Post-UTME or screening.

7. Accept admission on JAMB CAPS and print your letter.

Miva Open University

Miva is the first fully online private university in Nigeria.

• No JAMB required (you apply directly).

• Requirements: 5 credits in WAEC/NECO (not more than 2 sittings).

• You can apply for diploma, direct entry, even transfer from other universities or apply for postgraduate.

• Application is very simple: choose your program, apply, get admission, start learning. No application fee or hard steps.

Umaru Musa Yar’adua University (UMYU)

UMYU was created to serve both regular and distance students. It offers several programs via distance learning, blending online with study centers.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

NOUN

1. Get your JAMB Profile Code (send NIN SMS to 55019 or 66019).

2. Create JAMB CAPS profile.

3. Go to https://www.nouonline.nou.edu.ng → “How to do Things” to apply.

4. Pay fees: ₦5,000 (UG), ₦7,500 (PG), etc.

5. Upload academic credentials.

6. Wait for admission, accept via JAMB CAPS, then register courses.

Miva Open University

1. Visit Miva’s admissions page.

2. Choose program level (UG, PG, etc.).

3. No fee, just fill simple application.

4. Get admission letter via email.

5. Start your courses online.

UMYU Open University

1. Check the UMYU website for distance learning application.

2. Apply online or via a study center.

3. Provide O’Level results and pay fee if required.

4. Accept admission and start courses.

Requirements and Entry Criteria

NOUN:

• Age: at least 16 years old.

• O’Level: 5 credits in WAEC/NECO/NABTEB (max 2 sittings).

• JAMB UTME: Required for JAMB-assisted admission (create profile code). For Direct Entry, use JAMB DE form and meet additional entry criteria.

Miva:

• 5 credits in O’Level (max 2 sittings).

• No JAMB required.

UMYU:

• Must meet O’Level requirements—usually 5 credits.

Pros and Cons of Open University Admission

Pros:

• Flexible schedule.

• Study from anywhere.

• No ASUU strikes—NOUN keeps studying even when other schools pause.

• Quick and easy for Miva.

• Affordable.

Cons:

• Limited course options (no medical/law/engineering).

• You need self-discipline.

• Less campus life, fewer social parts.

• Some programs depend on good internet.

Comparison: Open University vs Regular University

Real Student Examples

• Aisha works full-time. She applied to NOUN, uploaded her SSCE results, accepted admission, and studies weekends from home.

• Tunde wants tech degree. He chose Miva so he can study at night without JAMB and quickly get admitted.

• Mary lives in Katsina. She uses UMYU study centre to learn Business Admin on weekends and works on weekdays.

Summary Table

FAQs About Applying to Open University

1. Do I need JAMB for NOUN?
   Yes—for UTME-linked admission, not for all programs.

2. Is NOUN degree valid?
   Yes—accredited by NUC and accepted for NYSC now.

3. Can I apply to open university without West African exams?
   No—O’Level results are mandatory.

4. How much is NOUN acceptance fee?
   Around ₦20,000, after admission.

5. When can I start?
   NOUN and Miva have rolling admissions—check their websites.

6. Can I study while I work?
   Yes—that’s what open university is for.

7. Are exams online?
   Often yes, but some programs might use local centers.

8. Can I transfer to regular university later?
   Yes—credits may transfer, check with the school.

9. Is Miva recognized?
   Yes—it’s NUC-licensed.

10. Do I get NYSC after distance learning?
    Yes—for most undergraduate programs now.

Conclusion and Final Tips

Applying to open universities in Nigeria in 2025/2026 is easier and more flexible than regular schools. Whether you choose NOUN, Miva, or UMYU:

• Check requirements and admission steps

• Prepare your exam results and ID early

• Apply online quickly to secure space

• Use study resources and stay disciplined