Scholarships & Employment Aid for Students

Empowering Dreams through Access, Support, and Opportunity. At Unique Open University (UOU), we believe that financial limitations should never hinder access to quality education. As a student-centered institution, UOU is committed to ensuring that every deserving learner regardless of background has the opportunity to pursue academic and professional excellence.

Through a robust system of scholarships, financial aid, and student employment initiatives, the university supports learners in achieving their dreams while preparing them for meaningful global careers.

Students celebrating graduation

Merit Scholarships

UOU offers Merit Scholarships to recognize and reward exceptional academic performance, leadership, and community service.

Eligibility Criteria
  • Outstanding results in secondary or previous tertiary education.
  • Proven leadership qualities or community involvement.
  • Consistent academic performance after enrollment.
Scholarship Categories
  • Vice Chancellor’s Merit Award: For top-performing students in each faculty.
  • Leadership and Innovation Grant: For students demonstrating entrepreneurial or creative excellence.
  • International Student Excellence Award: For foreign students who display academic distinction and ambassadorial qualities.

These scholarships not only provide tuition relief but also serve as a motivation for students to maintain academic excellence and moral discipline.

Need-Based Financial Aid

Recognizing that some students may face financial challenges, UOU provides Need-Based Financial Aid to ensure inclusivity and equal access to education.

Support Options
  • Tuition installment plans allowing flexible payment schedules.
  • Partial tuition waivers for students from low-income families.
  • Bursary support through donor and alumni contributions.
  • Educational sponsorships in partnership with corporate organizations and NGOs.

Through this initiative, the university reinforces its philosophy of education without barriers.

Work-Study Programme

In line with its vision of producing independent and responsible graduates, UOU operates a Work-Study Programme that allows students to gain professional experience while earning income during their studies.

Features
  • On-campus employment: Positions such as research assistants, library aides, ICT support staff, and administrative interns.
  • Online employment: Remote assignments in tutoring, content creation, or student mentorship under faculty supervision.
  • Entrepreneurial engagements: Students with creative business ideas may receive small startup grants or incubation support under the UOU Student Enterprise Scheme (USES).

The program helps students develop a strong work ethic, financial discipline, and early exposure to workplace realities.

Graduate Placement Opportunities

To ensure a smooth transition from learning to earning, UOU partners with industry leaders, government agencies, and international organizations for graduate placement opportunities.

Through the UOU Career Advancement Centre (CAC), students benefit from:
  • Internship and apprenticeship programs.
  • Job fairs and networking events.
  • Alumni mentoring and employer linkage.
  • Certification-to-career guidance.

Graduates are not only trained for jobs—they are prepared for leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the global economy.

The Scholarships and Employment Aid Programme at UOU reflects the university’s enduring commitment to equity, empowerment, and excellence. By combining financial support with career development opportunities, UOU ensures that every student—irrespective of background—can learn, grow, and succeed with dignity and confidence.

At Unique Open University, we don’t just educate students we empower lives.