Last Updated on 4 months ago by Haruna Ayuba
Are you considering the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) for your studies in the 2026/2027 academic session? A key question on your mind is likely: How much are the Open University school fees? As Nigeria’s leading open and distance learning (ODL) institution, NOUN offers flexible, affordable education for undergraduates and postgraduates alike.
In this guide, we’ll break down the projected school fees for 2026/2027, covering costs for freshers, returning students, and various programs. Whether you’re a working professional, a parent, or a student seeking convenience, this post will help you plan your finances.
What Is the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)?
Established in 1983 and relaunched in 2001, NOUN is a federal university pioneering open and distance learning in West Africa. With over 100,000 students and 78 study centers nationwide, it’s Nigeria’s largest tertiary institution by enrollment.
NOUN’s flexibility—no fixed class schedules, online materials, and affordable fees—makes it ideal for those balancing work, family, or other commitments. But what will it cost to study here in 2026/2027? Let’s find out.
Open University School Fees for 2026/2027: The Basics
NOUN’s fees are structured per semester and vary based on student status (new or returning) and program (undergraduate or postgraduate). The university releases official schedules closer to each session, but based on the 2026/2027 fees (₦61,340 for new students, ₦45,340 for returning students) and a modest inflation adjustment, here’s what to expect for 2026/2027. Note: These are estimates—check www.noun.edu.ng for the latest updates.
Key Costs:
- New Students (Undergraduate): ~₦65,000–₦70,000 per semester
- Returning Students (Undergraduate): ~₦48,000–₦52,000 per semester
- Postgraduate (New): ~₦70,000–₦80,000 per semester
- Postgraduate (Returning): ~₦50,000–₦55,000 per semester
- Acceptance Fee (New Students): ₦20,000–₦30,000 (one-time)
Undergraduate School Fees Breakdown
NOUN’s undergraduate fees are among the most affordable in Nigeria, with costs tied to course registration (credit units) and compulsory charges.
- New Students (100 Level or Direct Entry):
- Registration Fee: ₦6,000
- Caution Deposit: ₦5,000
- Orientation Fee: ₦5,000
- Matriculation Fee: ₦5,000
- I.D. Card: ₦2,500
- Library Fee: ₦5,000
- ICT Fee: ₦10,000
- E-Facilitation: ₦7,500
- Course Registration (varies by units): ₦20,000–₦25,000
- Total Per Semester: ~₦65,000–₦70,000
- Plus Acceptance Fee: ₦20,000–₦30,000 (one-time)
- Returning Students (200–400 Level):
- Semester Registration: ₦6,000
- Library Fee: ₦5,000
- ICT Fee: ₦10,000
- E-Facilitation: ₦7,500
- Course Registration: ₦20,000–₦25,000
- Total Per Semester: ~₦48,000–₦52,000
Postgraduate School Fees Breakdown
NOUN offers Postgraduate Diplomas (PGD), Master’s, and Ph.D. programs with slightly higher fees due to advanced study demands.
- New Postgraduate Students:
- Registration Fee: ₦10,000
- Caution Deposit: ₦7,000
- Orientation Fee: ₦5,000
- Matriculation Fee: ₦5,000
- I.D. Card: ₦2,500
- Library Fee: ₦5,000
- ICT Fee: ₦10,000
- E-Facilitation: ₦7,500
- Course Registration: ₦20,000–₦30,000
- Total Per Semester: ~₦70,000–₦80,000
- Plus Acceptance Fee: ₦20,000–₦30,000
- Returning Postgraduate Students:
- Semester Registration: ₦10,000
- Library Fee: ₦5,000
- ICT Fee: ₦10,000
- E-Facilitation: ₦7,500
- Course Registration: ₦20,000–₦25,000
- Total Per Semester: ~₦50,000–₦55,000
Additional Costs to Consider
- Exam Fees: ₦1,000 per course (e.g., ₦8,000 for 8 courses).
- Project Fee (Final Year): ₦15,000 (undergraduate), ₦40,000 (Master’s), ₦50,000 (Ph.D.).
- JAMB Regularization (if applicable): ₦7,500 (for Direct Entry).
- Study Materials: Optional, but printed copies cost extra if not using free online versions.
How to Pay NOUN School Fees
Payments are made via the Remita platform:
- Log into portal.nou.edu.ng with your matriculation number.
- Select “Pay Fees” and choose your level/session.
- Generate a Remita Retrieval Reference (RRR) code.
- Pay online or at any commercial bank (e.g., Zenith, First Bank).
- Submit proof of payment on the portal for clearance.
Deadline: Fees must be paid before semester exams—late payments may block exam access.
How NOUN Fees Compare
Compared to other Nigerian universities:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG): ₦66,000–₦100,000 per session (federal).
- Covenant University: ₦900,000–₦1,300,000 per session (private).
- NOUN: ₦96,000–₦140,000 annually (2 semesters).
NOUN’s affordability and flexibility make it a standout option.
Why Choose NOUN?
- No JAMB required for most programs—just O’level results.
- Study at your pace from anywhere in Nigeria.
- Accredited by the NUC, with NYSC eligibility for graduates.
- Over 50 programs across 9 faculties (e.g., Law, Nursing, Education).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much are NOUN fees for new students?
~₦65,000–₦70,000 per semester, plus a ₦20,000–₦30,000 acceptance fee.
Can I pay in installments?
No official installment plan, but you control costs by registering fewer courses per semester.
Are NOUN fees the same for all courses?
Course registration fees vary by credit units, but compulsory fees are uniform.
When are the 2026/2027 fees released?
Typically mid-2026—check www.noun.edu.ng.
Final Thoughts
The Open University school fees for 2026/2027 at NOUN remain a budget-friendly option, ranging from ₦48,000 to ₦80,000 per semester depending on your status and program.
With no classroom attendance required and a flexible payment system, NOUN is perfect for anyone seeking quality education without breaking the bank. Ready to join? Visit www.noun.edu.ng for admission details and the latest fee updates.
Questions? Drop them below—we’re here to assist!
