National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is a federal university in Jabi, Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, owned by the Federal Government of Nigeria and founded in 1983 (revived 2002). This guide covers NOUN’s background, faculties, 2026/2027 admission updates, requirements, screening, cut-off marks, school fees and how to check your admission status.
NOUN at a Glance
| Full name | National Open University of Nigeria |
|---|---|
| Abbreviation | NOUN |
| Ownership | Federal university |
| Founded | 1983 (revived 2002) |
| Location | Jabi, Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja |
| Campuses | Headquarters, Jabi, Abuja; Over 75 study centres nationwide |
| Other schools nearby | Universities, polytechnics and colleges of education in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja |
About NOUN
The National Open University of Nigeria was first established on 22 July 1983 for open and distance learning, suspended in 1984, and revived from 2001. It now operates from headquarters in Jabi, Abuja with study centres across Nigeria.
- Reported enrolment of more than 500,000 students
- Admits students for flexible, distance-learning study
NOUN Faculties and Colleges
NOUN organises its programmes into the following faculties, schools or colleges:
- Agricultural Sciences
- Law
- Arts
- Management Sciences
- Education
- Sciences
- Health Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Postgraduate School
Check the JAMB brochure for the exact courses offered under each faculty and their UTME subject combinations. See our subject combination guide.
NOUN Admission 2026/2027
For 2026/2027, JAMB set 150 as the minimum UTME score for all universities, and public universities had until 31 October 2026 to conclude admissions. NOUN may set a higher screening mark for its programmes, especially competitive courses. We will add NOUN’s screening dates and cut-off marks here as soon as they are announced.
Latest NOUN Updates
NOUN Admission Requirements
- O’Level: five credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, usually in not more than two sittings (some courses require one).
- UTME: the correct subject combination for your course, with NOUN chosen as your institution.
- Score: at least JAMB’s 150 minimum and NOUN’s own screening mark for your course.
- Screening: participation in NOUN’s Post-UTME or document screening.
- Direct Entry: A’Level (JUPEB, IJMB), ND or NCE holders apply through JAMB Direct Entry. See Direct Entry explained.
How to Check NOUN Admission Status
- Log in to the JAMB e-Facility portal and open CAPS.
- Click Admission Status. If NOUN has offered you admission, accept it within four weeks.
- Print your JAMB admission letter, then follow NOUN’s acceptance fee and clearance instructions on its portal.
Work out your chances with our aggregate calculator.
NOUN School Fees
Fees at NOUN depend on your faculty and whether you are a fresh or returning student. Use only the fee schedule shown on your student portal. Read how university fees work and check whether you qualify for the NELFUND student loan.
Frequently Asked Questions about NOUN
Is NOUN a federal or state university?
National Open University of Nigeria is a federal university owned by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
When was NOUN founded?
NOUN was founded in 1983 (revived 2002).
Where is NOUN located?
NOUN is in Jabi, Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, with 2 campuses.
Can I change to NOUN after the UTME?
Yes, when JAMB’s change of institution window is open. See our change of course and institution guide.