Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, one of Nigeria’s most prestigious and oldest institutions of higher learning, has officially extended the deadline for the sale of postgraduate application forms for the 2025/2026 academic session. This update comes as welcome news for many prospective applicants who had not been able to complete their application processes before the earlier deadline.

Originally scheduled to close on Friday, October 31, 2025, the management of the university has now extended the closing date to Sunday, November 30, 2025. This extension provides an additional one-month window for qualified and interested candidates to apply for admission into ABU’s wide range of postgraduate programmes.

Opportunity for More Applicants

The decision to extend the deadline was made in consideration of numerous appeals and feedback from intending applicants across the country. Many prospective students had expressed concerns about time constraints, challenges in obtaining necessary documents, and network-related issues during registration.

The university management, recognizing the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in the admission process, decided to grant this extension to allow more applicants the chance to complete their applications successfully.

According to an official bulletin released by the ABU Postgraduate College, this extension reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to accommodating genuine applicants while ensuring a fair and transparent admission process for all.

Available Programmes and Requirements

Prospective candidates seeking admission into ABU’s Postgraduate School can explore a variety of academic and professional programmes across multiple faculties, institutes, and centres. The university offers Postgraduate Diplomas (PGD), Master’s degrees (M.A., M.Sc., M.Ed., MBA, MPA, MPH, etc.), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programmes in various fields of study.

Applicants are encouraged to visit the official Postgraduate College website at https://pgc.abu.edu.ng to view the complete list of available programmes, entry requirements, and application guidelines.

Additionally, application forms can be conveniently obtained and completed online via the ABU portal: https://portal.abu.edu.ng/forms.

Application Fees and Submission Guidelines

According to the university bulletin, the application form costs ₦10,000 (Ten Thousand Naira) only, excluding applicable bank or service charges. The payment can be made online through the university’s secure payment platform.

Applicants for PhD programmes are required to upload a research proposal not exceeding 300 words. The proposal should briefly outline the intended area of study, the research problem, objectives, and its potential contribution to the field.

It is also mandatory for all applicants to provide valid phone numbers and email addresses, as all correspondence regarding admission and registration will be conducted through these channels.

Candidates must also ensure that they possess the minimum entry requirements, including at least five (5) O’Level credits, which must include English Language and Mathematics, obtained in not more than two sittings.

General Admission Requirements

While specific entry qualifications may vary depending on the programme, the general requirements for ABU postgraduate admission include the following:

1. Postgraduate Diploma (PGD)

   • Candidates must possess a first degree from a recognized university or a Higher National Diploma (HND) with at least a lower credit pass.

   • In some cases, relevant professional qualifications may be considered.

2. Master’s Degree (M.Sc., M.A., M.Ed., etc.)

   • Applicants must hold a good first degree (not lower than Second Class Lower Division) from ABU or any other recognized institution.

   • Candidates with a Postgraduate Diploma and a good performance may also be considered for admission.

3. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

   • Candidates must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field with a strong academic record (usually a minimum CGPA of 3.50 on a 5-point scale).

   • A well-articulated research proposal must be submitted as part of the application.

ABU’s Legacy of Academic Excellence

Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, established in 1962, remains one of Nigeria’s leading centers of higher education and research. Its Postgraduate College has produced thousands of scholars, professionals, and experts who have made significant contributions to academia, industry, and public service both in Nigeria and internationally.

Over the years, ABU has built a strong reputation for academic rigor, research innovation, and the promotion of indigenous knowledge systems. The postgraduate school continues to uphold this legacy by fostering an environment that encourages intellectual growth, critical thinking, and solution-driven research.

Advice to Prospective Applicants

The Postgraduate College has advised all interested candidates to apply early and to carefully follow the instructions provided on the portal. Errors during registration or the use of invalid details (such as incorrect email addresses or phone numbers) may lead to disqualification or missed communications.

Applicants are also reminded to double-check their uploaded documents — such as academic transcripts, certificates, and identification — before final submission. The university emphasizes that only complete and correctly filled applications will be processed.

Support and Enquiries

For further inquiries or technical support during the application process, candidates may contact the ABU Postgraduate College Call Centre through the following phone numbers:

• 📞 0913 127 3978

• 📞 0806 296 1194

The university also encourages applicants to frequently visit the official Postgraduate College website for real-time updates, frequently asked questions, and additional admission-related information.

A Call to Aspiring Scholars

With this extension, Ahmadu Bello University is reaffirming its dedication to providing fair access to quality postgraduate education. This decision not only accommodates candidates who faced challenges earlier but also ensures that qualified applicants from all parts of Nigeria have a chance to be part of the institution’s academic community.

The university’s postgraduate programmes are designed to produce researchers, innovators, and leaders equipped with the intellectual and professional tools needed to address global and national challenges. By choosing ABU, applicants are joining a rich tradition of excellence and academic distinction.

Conclusion

The extension of the postgraduate application deadline to November 30, 2025, gives prospective students a valuable opportunity to complete their applications and secure a place in one of Nigeria’s foremost universities.

Interested candidates are therefore encouraged to take advantage of this window, visit the official ABU postgraduate portal, and begin their application process immediately.

For more information and to apply, visit:
👉 https://pgc.abu.edu.ng
or
👉 https://portal.abu.edu.ng/forms