Join one of Africa’s most prestigious postgraduate communities.
The Postgraduate College, Ahmadu Bello University (PGC-ABU) welcomes applications from qualified candidates seeking advanced academic and professional training across a wide range of disciplines.
Admission Procedure
- A candidate wishing to enrol for a Postgraduate Diploma, Masters, MPhil or Doctoral degree in Ahmadu Bello University shall apply for provisional admission, through the PGC.
- Applications for admission for Postgraduate studies shall be made online.
- All candidates shall supply the names of three academic referees.
- Candidates seeking admission for Postgraduate studies must, in addition, fulfil the general University basic requirements including English Language and Mathematics where applicable.
- The PGC shall forward the application of each candidate to the Departments through the Dean of the relevant Faculty for consideration and recommendation.
- The Departments through the Faculty/Academic Boards shall forward a recommended list of candidates along with a provisional list of supervisors in each case to the Board of the PGC.
- The University shall not be obliged to give reasons for rejecting the candidature of any applicant for postgraduate studies.
- First Class graduates of ABU shall be considered for an M.Phil/PhD admission; 3rd Class + PGD qualifies an applicant for Master admission and a minimum CGPA of 3.5 is required for a straight PhD admission.
- Upon admission and registration, there shall be options/choices for flexible payments and registration plans within the allowable residency of postgraduate programmes as approved by the University.
- There shall be procedures of admission and registration as determined by the PGC Board, subject to periodic review.
- Detailed procedure for admission and registration would be as approved by the PGC Board
- International Students shall be required to satisfy all immigration requirements during their
The Application Steps
Tuition, Fees & Funding
Tuition and associated fees vary according to programme type and applicant category (Nigerian or International).
The Postgraduate College provides clear, transparent fee structures and flexible payment options.
Funding Opportunities Include:
• Limited scholarships, grants, and assistantships for deserving students.
• External funding through TETFund, Federal and State Scholarship Boards, and international partners.
• Departmental research or teaching assistantships (subject to availability).
Your most frequently asked questions
When does the admission cycle begin?
The admission cycle for postgraduate studies at Ahmadu Bello University typically opens in January each year. The portal remains active for several weeks, during which applicants are expected to complete their online registration, upload necessary documents, and finalize payment. However, exact opening and closing dates may vary each year. Applicants are strongly advised to visit the official Postgraduate College portal regularly for updates, announcements, and deadlines.
Can I apply for more than one programme?
Yes, applicants may apply for more than one postgraduate programme if they meet the eligibility requirements for each. However, note that each application must be submitted separately and accompanied by the corresponding application fee. When applying for multiple programmes, ensure that your supporting documents (e.g., transcripts, certificates, and references) are correctly uploaded for each application to avoid processing delays.
What if my transcript is not yet available?
Applicants who have completed their studies but are awaiting their official transcripts may still submit their applications. In such cases, a statement of result or notification of result may be uploaded temporarily.
However, please note that no admission offer will be finalized until the official academic transcript is received directly from the applicant’s previous institution by the Secretary, Postgraduate College, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Institutions can send transcripts either in sealed envelopes or through recognized electronic channels where applicable.
How do I check my admission status?
After submitting your application, you can monitor your progress and admission status by logging in to the Application Portal
. The dashboard provides real-time updates regarding your application review, document verification, and admission decision.
Successful candidates will also receive email notifications once admission decisions are finalized. It is advisable to keep your registered email and phone number active throughout the admission process.
Are part-time or flexible learning options available?
Yes. The Postgraduate College recognizes the needs of working professionals and offers a variety of part-time, modular, and executive postgraduate programmes in select departments. These programmes are designed to provide flexibility without compromising academic quality.
Candidates interested in flexible study options should carefully review the programme details on the portal or prospectus to confirm availability, structure, and duration before submitting their application.
Can international students apply?
Absolutely. The Postgraduate College welcomes applications from qualified international candidates across the globe.
International students are required to possess equivalent academic qualifications, provide certified translations of their documents (if applicable), and satisfy Nigeria’s immigration and visa requirements.
The University offers support through the International Programmes Office to assist with admission, travel, and accommodation arrangements.