Does NOUN Admission Require JAMB?

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Last Updated: 2nd June, 2026 | 05:12:53 PM

Does NOUN Admission Require JAMB?

Does NOUN Admission Require JAMB? A Detailed Guide

The Short Answer

No, admission into the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) does not require the JAMB UTME for most applicants. NOUN’s open and distance learning (ODL) model allows for a more flexible and accessible admission process.
(nounloaded.com.ng)

Official Clarification from NounLoaded

According to a recent post on nounloaded.com.ng, prospective students are informed that there is no need to purchase a JAMB form or obtain a JAMB UTME score to apply for NOUN admission. The application process is handled entirely via the NOUN portal.
(nounloaded.com.ng)

Admission Requirements Without JAMB

The same source outlines the required documents for second-semester admission, which include:

Original O-Level results
Birth certificate or declaration of age
Passport photographs

Additional documents apply to specific categories:

Direct Entry applicants: First degree certificate and/or NYSC certificate
Master’s & PhD applicants: Relevant degree certificates, NYSC certificate, and referees as needed
(nounloaded.com.ng)

Summary of NOUN’s Admission Policy

An updated 2026 admission guide on nounloaded.com.ng confirms that:

A minimum of five O-Level credits, including Mathematics and English, in not more than two sittings is required
No UTME exam is required for admission
Applications are made online, and supporting documents such as O-Level results and a valid email address are required
(nounloaded.com.ng)

So, When Is JAMB Involved?

While NOUN doesn’t require UTME for admission, there are specific scenarios where JAMB may be relevant:

Direct Entry applicants may need a JAMB Direct Entry registration number. This is primarily for administrative purposes and may be required during NYSC mobilization.
(nounloaded.com.ng)

Why NOUN Doesn’t Require JAMB

As an ODL institution, NOUN aims to provide flexible access to higher education. By eliminating the JAMB requirement, it:

Expands access to learners who missed UTME
Allows for flexible admission schedules
Reduces barriers for working professionals and mature students
(nounguide.com)

Quick Reference Table

Applicant Type	JAMB Required?	Notes
Undergraduate (UTME)	No	Apply directly using O-Level results
Direct Entry	Yes (for DE number only)	Required for records or NYSC mobilization
Postgraduate (PGD, MSc, PhD)	No	Admission based on degree certificates and other documents

Final Thoughts

NOUN’s admission process is designed to be inclusive and flexible—most applicants do not need JAMB UTME to apply. However, Direct Entry candidates should be prepared to provide JAMB DE registration details if needed. For all others, your O-Level results and necessary documentation are sufficient to begin your admission journey via the NOUN portal.