Welcome to the Open University validated student community

You are joining 60,000+ students worldwide studying on programmes validated by The Open University and delivered by trusted partner institutions. Your studies are supported by rigorous academic standards and quality assurance from the Open University.

Get started by reading the Open University Validation Partnerships Student Guide, your essential reference for understanding your student status, support services and key policies.

Validated students

Welcome to our vibrant community of 60,000+ students studying on programmes validated by The Open University (OU) and delivered by our global network of partner institutions.

Your learning journey

When you enrol on an Open University validated programme:

  • Your primary relationship is with the institution where you are registered.
  • You have full access to their resources, facilities and supportive services.
  • The Open University ensures the quality and standards of your programme.

Free online resources provided by the Open University

Our approval process requires that institutions have all the necessary services you need to help you with your studies. In addition, the Open University has some great free online resources that you can use:

  • The Open University Library gives you access to non-restricted online resources to support your study and research.
  • Additionally, the library offers comprehensive training and skills resources to help you make the most of its services, such as guidance on using the library effectively and accessing study skills support such as referencing: The Open University Library (Training Skills).
  • OpenLearn is a free learning platform offering over 1,000 courses, including dedicated sections for study and employability skills. The site has had over 111 million visits since its launch in 2006.
  • The Open University on YouTube has bite sized extracts from courses, plus videos of research, experiments, and student life.
  • Open Research Online shares the Open University’s high-quality, peer-reviewed publications. It features research outputs across a broad range of Open University research from science to arts.
The Open University Validation Partnerships Student Guide

Your essential companion for understanding:

  • What it means to be a validated student
  • The Open University's role and responsibilities
  • Complaints and appeals process
  • The Student Protection Plan

Download the Student's Guide

Future OU study

Future study opportunities

Learn more about continuing your education with the Open University. Discover pathways to undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

Join the OU Alumni Association

Join the Open University Alumni Association

Your free, lifetime membership of the Alumni Association instantly places you at the heart of a strong community of nearly half a million Open University alumni.