The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Courses and School Fees for the 2025/2026 academic session remain one of the most searched topics by admission seekers, as thousands of students are eager to know the complete list of accredited programmes alongside the exact cost per semester before applying. NOUN offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across faculties such as Law, Management Sciences, Education, Health Sciences, Social Sciences, and Agricultural Sciences, making it a top choice for flexible and affordable learning in Nigeria. The school fees structure is transparent and budget-friendly compared to traditional universities, with new students paying around ₦36,000 in compulsory charges, while returning students pay approximately ₦18,000 per semester, excluding course and project fees. Understanding the detailed NOUN courses and fees breakdown for 2025/2026 helps prospective students plan effectively, choose the right programme, and prepare financially for their academic journey. This guide gives you everything you need to know about the latest NOUN admission requirements, available courses, and school fees per semester, ensuring you make an informed decision about studying at Nigeria’s leading open and distance learning institution.

Available Courses (2025/2026)

NOUN offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across multiple faculties, including:

Undergraduate Programs:

• Agricultural Sciences: B.Agric. in Agricultural Economics & Extension, Animal Science, Crop Science, Soil & Land Resources Management.

• Arts: B.A. in English, French, Christian Religious Studies, Islamic Studies.

• Education: B.Sc./B.A. (Ed.) in Business Education, English, Mathematics, Integrated Science.

• Health Sciences: B.Sc. in Public Health, Nursing Science, Environmental Health Science.

• Law: LL.B. Law.

• Management Sciences: B.Sc. in Accounting, Business Administration, Marketing, Banking & Finance.

• Sciences: B.Sc. in Computer Science, Environmental Science & Resource Management, Mathematics, Biology.

• Social Sciences: B.Sc. in Criminology & Security Studies, Mass Communication, Political Science, Economics.

• Entrepreneurial Studies (New Faculty): B.Sc. in Entrepreneurship; B.Sc. in Cooperative & Rural Development.

Postgraduate Programs:

• M.Sc./M.A. in fields such as Agricultural Extension & Rural Development, English, Public Health, Business Administration, Mass Communication.

• M.Ed. in Educational Administration & Planning, Guidance & Counselling.

• Ph.D. in Christian Religious Studies; Ph.D. in Public Administration.

Fee Structure Overview

1. Compulsory Fees (Per Semester)

For New Undergraduate Students:

• Registration: ₦6,000

• Caution Deposit: ₦3,500

• Orientation: ₦1,500

• Matriculation: ₦1,500

• ID Card: ₦500

• Library Fee: ₦3,000

• ICT Administration: ₦5,000

• E-Facilitation: ₦4,000

• JAMB Regularisation: ₦6,000

• Result Verification: ₦5,000

• Total → ₦36,000 per semester

For Returning Undergraduate Students:

• Registration: ₦6,000

• Library Fee: ₦3,000

• ICT Administration: ₦5,000

• E-Facilitation: ₦4,000

• Total → ₦18,000 per semester

For New Postgraduate Students:

• Compulsory fees similar to undergraduates plus result verification: totaling around ₦35,000 per semester.

For Returning Postgraduate Students:

• Same as returning undergrads: approx. ₦18,000 per semester

2. Course-Related & Additional Fees

Undergraduate Students:

• Exam Fee: ₦1,000 – 1,500 per course.

• Project Fee (Final Year): ₦15,000

Postgraduate Students (PGD / Master’s / Ph.D.):

• PGD Project Fee: ₦25,000

• Master’s Project Fee: ₦40,000

• Exam Fee: ₦2,000 – 3,000 per course

Estimated Total Fees Per Semester

Note: Course tuition is calculated per credit unit and varies by program

Summary and Recommendations

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) provides one of the most diverse ranges of programs in the country, offering diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional studies across several fields such as Education, Social Sciences, Law, Management, Health Sciences, and Technology. This wide selection ensures that both fresh applicants and working professionals can find courses that align with their career goals and personal aspirations.

One of the most attractive features of NOUN is its affordability when compared to conventional universities in Nigeria. The institution has maintained its reputation as one of the most cost-effective options, making higher education more accessible to Nigerians who desire flexibility without sacrificing quality. The relatively low fee structure is particularly beneficial for distance learners and working-class individuals seeking to combine studies with other commitments.

When considering the overall cost, students need to be aware of the key cost drivers. While compulsory fees such as registration, ICT, and facilitation remain largely fixed across the board, the bulk of variability comes from semester-based factors. These include the number of courses registered per semester, which directly affects the cost of study materials, as well as examination fees that are charged per course. Final-year projects or theses also add extra costs that students should anticipate. Understanding these components is crucial for accurate financial planning.

A practical way to plan effectively is to first calculate compulsory fees, which apply to all students, and then add course-based charges depending on the number of units registered in a semester. This approach provides a clear and realistic estimate of total expenses and helps students manage their budget without last-minute surprises during registration or examination periods.

Since NOUN updates its fee schedules periodically, students should stay alert to official communications. It is strongly advised that students confirm only from official channels such as the school’s official portal or other verified announcements. This helps to avoid misinformation and ensures smooth academic planning.

Overall, NOUN remains one of the most affordable and flexible universities in Nigeria. With proper planning around compulsory and variable costs, students can enjoy uninterrupted learning while keeping expenses under control. The key is to stay informed, calculate accurately, and prepare ahead to make the most of the opportunities NOUN provides.