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Accessibility statement
Three Open University international students in conversation
Get answers to common questions about studying online with The Open University from outside the UK.
Yes – the OU has thousands of students studying from outside the UK, in over 150 countries. Most of our undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications are open to international students, though availability can vary by country and by course. Some qualifications have country-specific restrictions, particularly when local regulations apply (for example, certain healthcare courses). The course page for each qualification confirms whether it's available in your area. A small number of UK-based modules include a residential school; international students can usually take an online substitute.
OU modules are designed for distance learning. Most of your study takes place online through your module website, which acts as your day-to-day study portal – you'll follow a weekly study planner that guides you through reading, audio and video, interactive activities and assignments. Some modules also include printed books or set texts that are posted to you. You'll have a dedicated tutor for each module, access to student forums, and live online tutorials and learning events you can usually join from anywhere with a reliable internet connection. If you are unable to attend, they are usually recorded and available to watch later. You can also download module materials through the OU Study app to read or listen to offline.
An OU degree has the same status as a degree from any other UK university and meets UK quality assurance standards. Recognition outside the UK can vary, however, particularly for regulated professions, professional body membership or entry to further study. If you plan to use your qualification for a specific job, licence or onward course, it's worth checking local requirements with the relevant employer, professional body or institution before you enrol. See our Recognition of OU qualifications outside the UK page for more details.
In most cases, no. You won't usually need a formal English language qualification to study with the OU, but you will need a reasonable standard of written and spoken English to read your study materials, contribute to tutorials and forums, and complete written assessments. If you're not sure whether your English is at the right level, our English language requirements page explains what to expect and where to find free practice resources to help you prepare.
Yes – for every module you study, you'll be allocated a tutor. Your tutor marks your tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) and provides detailed written feedback, suggests learning resources, and gives individual guidance when you need it. They'll get in touch before your module starts to introduce themselves and explain how to contact them. Most tutor contact happens by email, phone, or through your module forums, and many tutors run online tutorials throughout the module that you can join live or watch later.
It depends on how many credits you're studying at a time. As a rough guide, a 30-credit module needs around 8 to 10 hours a week, a 60-credit module (typical part-time pace) around 16 to 20 hours, and 120 credits (typical full-time pace) around 32 to 36 hours. These hours cover working through your weekly study planner, reading, consolidation activities and tutorials. Each course and module description shows the expected study time, so you can pick a pace that fits around work, family and other commitments.
Assessment varies by module. Most modules use a combination of tutor-marked assignments (TMAs), computer-marked assignments (CMAs) and either an end-of-module assessment (a longer project, essay or portfolio) or a formal exam. Most OU exams are now taken remotely online from home, though a small number are remotely invigilated (proctored) or sat in person – your module description will tell you which applies. Postgraduate qualifications often culminate in a dissertation or major project. Each module's information explains exactly how and when you'll be assessed.
Most OU modules start in the autumn, with smaller intakes in February and a few in April. Registration usually opens months in advance and closes around four to six weeks before the start date. The course page for each qualification shows its next available start dates.
Yes. The OU is built around flexible study, so you can vary your pace from year to year – speeding up or extending the time you spend on a qualification if life changes, and even pause and take a year off between modules if needed. There's a maximum time limit for completing each qualification, but it's generous, and we can talk you through your options if you need a longer break or want to restart after time away.
The OU has decades of experience supporting students with a wide range of disabilities, long-term health conditions, mental health needs and specific learning differences. Study materials are available in alternative formats – including audio, large print and screen-reader-friendly.
There's an active OU community to connect with from day one. Every module has its own online forums where you can discuss the material with classmates and your tutor, and the OU Students Association (OpenSU) runs subject-specific and interest-based clubs, regional groups and online events that are open to all students. Many international students also connect through informal study groups and social media communities run by other learners – useful for sharing tips on studying across time zones.
Most international students pay module by module as they study, so you don't have to fund a whole qualification upfront. Fees vary by qualification and module, and the current fees for each course are shown on its course page. You can pay by debit or credit card, often in your home currency, or by bank transfer in Pound Sterling (GBP), Euro (EUR) or US Dollar (USD). Depending on your circumstances, you may also be able to use an OUSBA loan, pay through employer sponsorship, or use a combination of payment methods. See our International fees and funding page for the full picture.
Yes – you can request a free undergraduate or postgraduate prospectus from our website, which gives you a fuller view of our qualifications, subject areas and study options before you decide.
The OU was the most flexible, distance and online-learning University. This allowed me to continue working full-time whilst applying my learning to the workplace which was the most important factor.
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