How does Open University payment work?

Open University Payment Options

Open University (OU) offers flexible payment options to make pursuing higher education accessible to all students. Here’s a guide to how payments work at OU:

OUSBA Loan

The Open University Students’ Benefit Agency (OUSBA) loan is a flexible payment plan that allows students to finance their studies through monthly installments. The loan covers the full cost of tuition and other related expenses, such as course materials.

• Monthly Payments: Students make fixed monthly payments throughout the duration of their studies.
• No Interest: The loan is interest-free, meaning students won’t have to pay any additional charges on top of the principal amount.
• Eligibility: All OU students are eligible for the OUSBA loan, regardless of their income or employment status.

Student Account

OU provides students with a dedicated student account to manage their course fees. Students can use this account to:

• View Balances: Access real-time information about outstanding fees and payments made.
• Make Payments: Easily make payments using a variety of methods, including online banking, credit/debit cards, or direct debit.
• Set Up Installments: Create custom payment plans to spread out fees over several months or semesters.

Payment Deadlines

OU sets payment deadlines for each semester or module. Students are responsible for ensuring that payments are received by the designated due date. Late payments may incur additional charges.

Payment Methods

Students can make payments to OU using the following methods:

• Online Banking: Set up online payments through your bank’s website or mobile app.
• Credit/Debit Cards: Use a Visa, Mastercard, or American Express card to make payments online or over the phone.
• Direct Debit: Authorize OU to withdraw monthly payments directly from your bank account.
• Cheque: Send a cheque payable to “The Open University” to the designated address on your invoice.

Financial Assistance

OU understands that some students may need additional financial assistance to cover the costs of their studies. The university offers a range of scholarships, bursaries, and discounts to help eligible students. Students should explore these options before committing to a payment plan.

By providing flexible payment options and a convenient student account, Open University ensures that all students have access to affordable and high-quality higher education.