Overview
The Open University (OU) is a UK public university built around distance and online learning. It was founded to open up higher education to people regardless of background or prior qualifications, and it teaches through flexible, part-time-friendly online study rather than a traditional campus-based entry process.
Who can take it
For the large majority of OU undergraduate qualifications and modules, there are no formal entry requirements: applicants do not need A-levels, GCSEs, or prior university study to register. Some specific qualifications, including vocational and professional ones, set their own entry conditions (for example, being currently employed in a relevant role), so applicants should check the requirements listed for their specific course or qualification.
Who can apply
Anyone meeting a course's own (often minimal) entry conditions can register; the OU's model is designed around adult and returning learners studying alongside work or other commitments, with no need to relocate.
Structure or exam pattern
Study is organised by individual modules rather than a single fixed-year structure. Students build a qualification (such as a Certificate, Diploma or Honours degree) by completing modules over time, with assessment set by each module (a mix of coursework and, depending on the module, end-of-module assessment) rather than one common entrance or exit exam.
Recognition
The OU is a UK university, and its qualifications carry the same standing as other UK university qualifications in the fields it teaches.
Dates and fees
The OU runs several module start points across the year rather than a single annual intake. For 2026/27, the maximum fee for undergraduate students on the England fee scheme is £7,335 for the year; fees differ for students in Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and for non-UK/international students, and are published in the OU's Fee Rules documents for each region and category.
How to register
Applicants choose a course or qualification on the OU website and register directly online; there is no separate application fee for direct OU registration.
Preparation tips
Check the specific entry requirements listed for your chosen course or qualification, since most have none but some (particularly vocational or professional ones) do.
Check the Fee Rules document for your region before registering, since fees and funding options differ by where you live and study.
Does the Open University require A-levels or similar qualifications?
For most undergraduate courses and modules, no. There are no formal entry requirements for the majority of OU undergraduate study.
Is there one annual intake for the Open University?
No. The OU offers multiple module start points across the year rather than a single fixed intake date.
How much does OU undergraduate study cost?
For 2026/27, the maximum fee for undergraduate students on the England fee scheme is £7,335 for the year; other regions and international students have their own published fee rules.