Mandatory Physical Clearance: NOUN Introduces New Protocol for 2026_1 Semester Exam Access

The Management of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has announced a significant shift in its examination eligibility process.

Effective for the 2026_1 Semester, students are now required to complete a mandatory physical clearance at their respective study centres before they can access or print their examination slips. 

This directive marks a departure from previous semesters, where registration on the portal often sufficed for exam entry.

The Three-Stage Verification Process

Under the new guidelines, students must visit their study centres and obtain clearance from three specific departments: 

The Bursary: To verify all financial records and e-wallet balances.

The Registry: To confirm student status and academic records.

The Study Centre Director: To provide the final institutional approval. 

Only after all three offices have successfully logged the clearance on the system will the student’s exam slip become accessible via the portal. 

Eliminating "Missing Course" Complications

According to a statement from NOUN News and Updates, the primary objective of this new rule is to eliminate technical discrepancies, such as courses missing from the portal during the examination period. By enforcing physical verification, the University aims to ensure that every student's registration is fully synced and valid before they enter the hall. 

Deadlines and Restrictions

Students are strongly advised against late compliance. Key points to note include: 

Early Action: Clearance should be completed immediately after course and exam registration, ideally at least one month before exams begin.

No Entry: The university maintains a "No Exam Slip, No Entry" policy.

Changes Post-Clearance: Any attempt to add, drop, or change a course after being cleared will automatically void the clearance, requiring the student to repeat the entire physical verification process. 

The university administration urges all students to register early and clear early to avoid complications during the high-pressure examination period.