NOUN scholarships and financial aid help students at the National Open University of Nigeria reduce their education expenses. If you’re currently studying at NOUN or planning to apply in 2025, this guide explains the available scholarships, how to apply, eligibility criteria, and tips to improve your chances.

Does NOUN Offer Scholarships?

Yes. While the National Open University of Nigeria operates mostly on a self-funding model, several scholarship and financial aid opportunities are open to its students.

These include:

• Direct funding from NGOs
• Government intervention (e.g. TETFund)
• Department-level financial relief
• External scholarships that accept NOUN students

List of NOUN Scholarships Available in 2025

As of 2025, here are top scholarship opportunities for NOUN students:

Some of these may require school recommendation, while others are open to individual application.

NOUN Financial Aid Programmes for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Students

While NOUN does not run a central financial aid office, some departments and centres offer financial relief to students facing hardship.

These include:

• Fee waivers for physically challenged students
• Department-level “help a student” funds
• Open call for essay competition-based grants
• NOUN alumni contributions to indigent students
• Ask your study centre for available local options.

External Scholarships for NOUN Students

Here are some external scholarships that accept applications from NOUN students:

How to Apply for NOUN Scholarships (Step-by-Step)

Here is the step-by-step process for applying to scholarships for NOUN students:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Read the requirements for your preferred scholarship. Make sure your level, course, and GPA match.

Step 2: Prepare Documents

Get your student ID, NOUN result slip, passport photo, personal statement, and admission letter ready.

Step 3: Visit Official Website

Go to the scholarship’s portal (use verified links only).

Step 4: Fill the Application Form

Use simple and clear English. Focus on how the scholarship will help your education.

Step 5: Submit and Monitor

After applying, save your reference number and check email or portal regularly.

Eligibility Criteria for NOUN Financial Aid

Though criteria vary, these are commonly expected:

• Must be a registered NOUN student (Matric No. required)
• Minimum CGPA of 3.0 (for most merit-based awards)
• Must have completed at least 100-level
• Must show financial need (for need-based scholarships)
• No disciplinary record

Some scholarships are limited to students in STEM, education, law, or entrepreneurship.

Required Documents for Scholarship Applications

Before applying for NOUN scholarships, gather the following:

When to Apply for Scholarships at NOUN

Most scholarship applications open between March and September 2025.

However:

• Some tech scholarships may run all year
• NGO-sponsored funds may be one-time calls
• NOUN-based waivers may depend on session
• Always check the scholarship’s official timeline and act early.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Application

• Submitting incomplete forms
• Applying after deadline
• Not tailoring your essay to the scholarship’s theme
• Using unofficial or fake websites
• Failing to follow up with required documents

Always cross-check your entries before submitting.

How NOUN Scholarships Are Disbursed

Most scholarships pay directly to:

• The student’s bank account (cash award)
• NOUN portal (tuition offset)
• Or provide resources (e.g. laptops, data, mentorship)
• The method depends on the scholarship provider.

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Scholarship Timelines and Deadlines for 2025

Below are the estimated windows when top scholarships open and close:

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting a NOUN Scholarship

Many students miss out on NOUN scholarships not because they’re not eligible — but because they’re not prepared. Here’s how to boost your chances:

1. Maintain a Good CGPA

Aim for 3.5 or higher. Even if the minimum requirement is 3.0, higher scores make your application stand out.

2. Build a Winning Personal Statement

Explain:

• Why you need the scholarship
• Your academic goals
• How it will impact your life
• What you’ve achieved already
• Use simple English. Avoid copy-paste samples.

3. Watch for Deadlines

Set a reminder. Apply 2–3 weeks before deadline to avoid technical problems.

4. Join Active NOUN Groups

Telegram and Facebook groups often post legit scholarship alerts. Always double-check the source.

5. Check Study Centre Notice Boards

Some local scholarships or alumni grants are posted only at the study centre. Stay alert.

Sample Personal Statement Format

Here is a basic structure you can follow for your NOUN scholarship essay:

Title: Personal Statement for [Scholarship Name]

My name is [Your Name], a 200-level student of [Your Course] at the National Open University of Nigeria (Matric No: XXXXXXXX). I am applying for this scholarship because…

(Paragraph 2): Describe your financial situation and challenges

(Paragraph 3): Explain your academic record and career goal

(Paragraph 4): Mention how the scholarship will help and thank the sponsor

Keep it under 500 words. Save it as a Word or PDF file.

Platforms That Regularly List Scholarships for NOUN Students

How Scholarships Affect NOUN Academic Record

Receiving a scholarship does not affect your:

• Result grading
• Course registration
• Exam process
• Graduation timeline

However, some funders may require academic progress reports each semester

Where to Submit Queries or Complaints

If you experience issues like:

• Disqualified despite eligibility
• No response after shortlisting
• Technical errors during submission
• Contact the scholarship body directly. Most have:
• Email helpdesk
• Contact form
• Phone support

Avoid middlemen or agents asking for money. Legit scholarships are always free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I get a full scholarship at NOUN?

Yes. Some external scholarships cover full tuition, data cost, and provide stipends.

2. What CGPA is required for most NOUN scholarships?

Usually 3.0 and above, though some need-based scholarships accept lower CGPA.

3. Can postgraduate students apply for NOUN scholarships?

Yes. Some grants specifically support PGD, MBA, MSc, or PhD NOUN students.

4. Do NOUN alumni offer scholarships?

Yes. Some study centres run local aid programmes funded by alumni contributions.

5. Are there scholarships for physically challenged NOUN students?

Yes. Some NGOs and internal NOUN relief programs support disabled students.

Final Advice

NOUN scholarships and financial aid in 2025 offer real support to both new and returning students. But you need to:

• Search for verified opportunities
• Apply early and follow instructions
• Prepare the right documents
• Meet GPA and other criteria
• Keep checking your student email and portal

Studying at NOUN becomes easier when you reduce your financial burden. Don’t miss the opportunity to apply for available scholarships.