OUT Online Application 2025/2026 – Admission Guide

The Open University of Tanzania (OUT) is now inviting applications for the 2025/2026 academic year for a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, certificate, and doctoral programmes. Details about entry requirements, application procedures, and deadlines are available on the official university website (link at the end of this post).

Alongside the admission announcement, OUT has also provided the official eligibility criteria and application process for all prospective students. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to successfully apply for your preferred programme at OUT.

About the Open University of Tanzania (OUT)

The Open University of Tanzania was established under Act No. 17 of 1992 and officially commenced operations on March 1, 1993, following the publication of Government Notice No. 55 in the Official Gazette. The first batch of students joined in January 1994, marking the start of OUT’s journey as a pioneer in distance learning in Tanzania.

After the enactment of the Universities Act No. 7 of 2005, OUT began operating under the OUT Charter and Rules (2007), maintaining its status as an independent, fully accredited public university.

Mode of Learning

OUT delivers its programmes through an open and distance learning system, which combines:

• Face-to-face instruction

• E-learning platforms

• Broadcast and telecast lessons

• Correspondence studies

• Seminars and workshops

• Blended learning (mix of multiple delivery methods)

All academic programmes are monitored and approved by the Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU) to ensure quality and compliance.

Regional and Coordinating Centers

OUT has a strong presence across Tanzania and beyond, operating:

• 30+ Regional Centers in Tanzania

• 10 Coordinating Centers, including:

  • Rwanda (Kibungo)

  • Namibia

  • Uganda

  • Kenya (Egerton & Njoro)

• Specialized units such as:

  • SADC Center of Specialization in Teacher Education (SADC ODL CoS TE)

  • African Council for Distance Education – Technical Collaboration Committee (ACDE TCC)

  • Center for Economics and Community Economic Development (CECED)

• 69 Study Centers located across the country

Faculties and Institutes

Programmes are offered through the following faculties and institutes:

1. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

2. Faculty of Education

3. Faculty of Business Management

4. Faculty of Law

5. Faculty of Science, Technology and Environmental Studies

6. Institute of Continuing Education

7. Institute of Educational and Management Technologies

How to Apply Online

You can apply for:

• Foundation Programmes

• Undergraduate Degrees

• Master’s Degrees

• PhDs

Steps to Apply:

1. Visit the official OUT online application portal.

2. Select your preferred programme.

3. Fill in accurate personal and academic details.

4. Upload required documents (certificates, transcripts, identification).

5. Pay the application fee via the provided payment methods.

6. Submit and keep a copy of your application confirmation.

Note: Undergraduate applicants must apply online only.