We offer globally-accredited degrees and courses taught by the region’s finest academics in world-class facilities.
Undergraduate Admissions
The UWI, Open Campus is inviting applications for admission to regional undergraduate degrees, associate degrees, diplomas and certificates for August and January of each year. See the programmes on offer.
APPLICATION NOTICE
Apply by July 31, 2018 to start in August 2018 [Extended]
Please note that for regional programmes, applications must be completed online.
You must submit the Application Receipt and all required supporting documents to your Open Campus Site in order to complete the application process. See Locations at the Prospective Students tab on our homepage for Open Campus Sites across the region.
TRACK YOUR APPLICATION
You may track the status of your application anytime by logging on to the Online Admissions Portal using your Login ID and PIN.
All communication from Admissions will be sent to your email address and print copies sent to you through your Open Campus Site.
LOCAL PROGRAMMES
Many of our Sites offer pre-university, professional and continuing education courses, programmes, seminars and workshops face-to-face throughout the year. Please contact your nearest Site for information on current offers and the application process.
The offer of programmes and courses is subject to the availability of an adequate number of qualified persons.
Who Can Apply?
Anyone who satisfies the university’s matriculation requirements can apply to study at the Open Campus. A minimum of five passes [CXC (CSEC) General Proficiency Grades I to III or GCE ‘A’ Level] including English Language, is compulsory for entry. You must also satisfy the entry requirements of the programme of your choice – a pass in Mathematics is required for degree programmes in the Social Sciences. See programmes for the admission requirements of specific programmes.
Age Entry Requirement
There is no minimum age requirement for entry to undergraduate programmes at UWI, except in the Faculty of Medical Sciences.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are required to satisfy the relevant University minimum entry requirements for matriculation, either at Normal or Lower Level, before being considered for admission to degrees or other programmes. These are explained below:
Normal Matriculation
Applicants with the qualifications listed below are eligible for normal matriculation for admission to degree programmes, provided that they have an acceptable pass in English A in an examination of the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) or an acceptable equivalent. [An acceptable pass in a CXC (CSEC) examination is defined as a pass with Grades I or II at the General Proficiency Level, or Grade III General Proficiency from June 1998).
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Holders of CXC (CSEC) Certificates and General Certificates of Education (GCE) [or approved equivalents] who satisfy Scheme A or Scheme B as stated below:
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| 2. | Holders of degrees from any university recognized by the Board for Undergraduate Studies. | ||||||||||
| 3. | Holders of certificates and diplomas awarded by The University of the West Indies. | ||||||||||
| 4. | Holders of an Associate Degree from the UWI, or from approved Caribbean tertiary level institutions within a minimum GPA of 2.5. | ||||||||||
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Persons over age of 21 based on having demonstrated academic potential, having gained academically relevant knowledge and workplace experience. Applicants will be required to present, where appropriate:
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Lower Level Matriculation
Applicants who possess the following are eligible for lower level matriculation for admission to degree programmes:
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Holders of five (5) CXC (CSEC) or GCE ‘O’ Level passes or equivalent, not necessarily obtained at the same sitting, as follows:
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| 2. | Persons over the age of 21 on the basis of their overall academic and professional attainments. | ||||||
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Holders of one of the approved certificates from the School of Continuing Studies with an acceptable pass in English Language. |
Other Categories of Applicants
| 1 |
Mature Applicants Mature applicants are persons over the age of 21 years who have been out of secondary school for at least five years. Such applicants may be granted normal or lower level matriculation on the basis of their overall academic and professional achievements. |
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Specially Admitted and Occasional Students Applicants may be admitted to take selected courses under the categories of Specially Admitted or Occasional Students. Occasional Students are only permitted to attend face-to-face classes and may not write examinations. Specially Admitted Students may register for online/blended and face-to-face courses and are permitted to write examinations. Specially Admitted/Occasional Students normally must meet the University’s matriculation requirements. For more information please see Specially Admitted & Occasional Students. |
| 3. |
Inter Campus Transfer Applicants Students from the Open Campus may wish to transfer to another UWI campus. In order to complete this process students must complete a transfer application form in duplicate and the return to the Recruitment, Admissions and Registration Department by November 14, 2018. |
English Language and Mathematics Requirements for admission into programmes
English Language Requirements
Applicants who do not possess one of the exempting qualifications listed below are required to take the English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT).
Holders of the following qualifications are exempt from the ELPT
| (i) | Grade 1 – CXC (CSEC) English ‘A’ examination |
| (ii) | Grade A – GCE ‘O’ Level English Language |
| (iii) | Grade A or B – Cambridge GCE A/O Level General Paper examination |
| (iv) | Grades I – II CXC (CAPE) Communications Studies |
| (v) | Grades I – II CXC (CAPE) Communications Studies |
| (vi) |
Grade B+ or above – Advanced Communication or Business Communication – University of Technology (UTECH) |
| (vii) | Grade B+ or above – Freshman Composition I or II – Northern Caribbean University (NCU |
The ELPT is administered several times a year. Please check our website www.open.uwi.edu or the Site in your region for test dates. There is a fee of US$25 or the local equivalent. The results of the test will remain valid for a period of five (5) years. See ELPT for further information.
Applicants whose native Language is not English are required to perform satisfactorily in an approved English Language Test. The TOEFL test with a minimum score of 500 has been approved for this purpose.
Mathematics Requirement
For entry into certain ASc and BSc programmes an approved qualification in Mathematics is required. The minimum Mathematics requirement is a pass at CXC (CSEC) General Proficiency or the equivalent. Candidates who do not meet this requirement must successfully complete an approved remedial Mathematics course. Approved remedial Mathematics courses include Improving your Math Skills (IYMS) and MATH0900/CE001 Mathematics. Please consult your Site with respect to the course on offer.
Technical Requirements
Applicants applying to online/distance and mixed-mode programmes should be comfortable using a personal computer and email. Students will need to have access to a computer with Internet access.
Documents Required
Applicants are required to submit the following supporting documents, to their selected Open Campus Site, immediately after completing the online application. Original documents along with photocopies of each document must be presented to the Site. The Site staff will certify the photocopies of your documents and return the originals to you. You must submit all required documents in order to complete the application process.
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Application Receipt (A signed copy of the application receipt together with a passport picture) |
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| • | Birth Certificate or Valid Passport or Valid National ID Card or Valid Driver's Permit | |
| • | Marriage Certificate (where applicable) | |
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Legal Affidavit or Deed Poll (if present name or date of birth on your supporting documents is different from that on the Birth Certificate) |
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All Academic Certificates [ GCE, CXC (CAPE), CXC (CSEC)) ] (not applicable to Graduate applicants) |
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Grade Slips (accepted only in cases where certificates are not yet available) |
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| • | Professional Certificates/Diplomas | |
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Official transcripts [Transcripts must be sent directly from granting institution] (Not applicable to graduates of the UWI)
Transcripts must be submitted to: The Assistant Registrar |
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Two (2) referee reports (required for Graduate programmes only) |
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TOEFL Examination Score (applicable only to candidates whose native language is not English. A TOEFL Score of 500 or greater is preferred) |
Applicants are advised to submit all supporting documents within one week of submitting an online application.
NB: Applications will not be considered if there is any indication that the supporting documents have been altered in any way.
Submission of Transcripts
Transcripts are required if you have a professional certificate, diploma, and/or university degree from an institution other than The University of the West Indies. Transcripts should be forwarded by June 30 for August admission and November 30 for January admission.
How to Apply
STEP 1: CREATE AN ACCOUNT
All applicants to The University of the West Indies, Open Campus (UWIOC) (Online Programmes) must begin the application process via the Admissions Portal. First time applicants will be required to create an account and must have a valid email address. When your account has been successfully created, an email confirmation will be sent to your email address with your login credentials. Returning applicants will be required to utilize their existing credentials.
STEP 2: BUILD YOUR APPLICATION PROFILE
You will be required to build your application profile. In order to successfully do so, you will be requested to fill out the following sections of the application form:
- Open Campus Country Site
- Application Type (Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Regional Programmes)
- Entry Term
- Biographic Data and Next to Kin
- Academic History
- Planned Programme of Study
- UWI Affiliation
- Employment History
- Complete and Submit Application
Once an application profile has been created, you do not have to complete your application in one sitting. You can begin the process and complete it any time before the deadline date. You will also be given the option to update or edit your “Personal Information” as you navigate your way through the application form.
STEP 3: SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
Upon completion of building your application profile, click on the ‘Application is Complete’ button to submit your application. Once you have successfully submitted, kindly Print and Sign the application receipt.
STEP 4: SUBMIT YOUR SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
Applicants are required to submit the following supporting documents, to their selected Open Campus Country Site, immediately after completing the online application. Original documents along with photocopies of each document must be presented to the Site. The Site staff will certify the photocopies of your documents and return the originals to you. You must submit all required documents in order to complete the application process.
NB: Applicants who have selected a VISO Site should email their notarized documents to The Virtual International Students Office (VISO) at viso@open.uwi.edu
- Signed Application Receipt
- Birth Certificate OR Valid Passport OR Valid National Identification Card
- Marriage Certificate (where applicable)
- Legal Affidavit or Deed Poll (if the name or date of birth on your supporting documents is different from that on your Birth Certificate)
- All Academic Certificates
- Professional Certificates/Diplomas
- Official Transcripts (These must be sent directly from the granting institution) Not applicable to graduates of the UWI
- Two (2) referee reports (Only required for Graduate programmes and mature students applying without entry requirements)
- TOEFL or IELTS Examination Score (applicable only to candidates whose native language is not English. A TOEFL Score of 500 or greater is preferred.)
STEP 5: TRACK YOUR APPLICATION
Log on to the Admissions Portal using the same Login ID and PIN credentials you created in STEP 1 above to track the status of your application. If you have forgotten your Login ID or PIN select the Admissions Password Recovery link or use the Help section on the login page.
Tracking your application allows you to:
- Check the status of your application
- Check whether all required documents were received
- Check the decision on your application
STEP 6: ACCEPTANCE OF OFFER
When your application has been processed and an offer of acceptance is made you will be notified via email.
If you wish to defer your offer, please fill out the Offer Reply form. Deadline date for submission of deferral requests will be September 1, 2018.
Financial Information
Students are required to pay tuition fees relevant to their programme, administrative services and compulsory fees in accordance with the regulations. Tuition fees are paid by semester at the time of registration.
Students registering online can print their fee assessment invoice for each semester which details their financial obligations after registration.
All fees must be paid by the end of the third week of semester classes and the second week of summer classes. Students who do not comply with payment deadlines will be de-registered and given Leave of Absence for the semester.
Students who do not comply with payment deadlines will be subject to the penalties in force.
The base currency for the calculation of fees for regional programmes is the US$. Exchange rates for the new academic year will be confirmed in July.
All course and programme fees are subject to change from time to time as mandated by The University of the West Indies.
Tuition Fee
Tuition fees cover tuition and examination costs, the costs of materials, teleconferences and tutorials (as appropriate). Tuition fees are paid by semester at the time of registration.
The tuition fees for repeating a course are the same as for a first attempt.
Administrative & Other Fees
In addition to tuition fees, there are Compulsory Fees (ID card, Guild Fees) and Administrative Fees, details of which can be obtained from your Site.
Fees are paid in the local currency of the Site of registration. The base currency for the calculation of fees for regional programmes is the US$.
Tuition Fees
Schedule of Fees 2018/2019 [Last Updated August 3, 2018]
Payment Procedures for Semester 1, Academic Year 2018/2019
| Supplementary Information on Fees | |
| Student Declaration Form |
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| Student Declaration Form (for students under 18 years) |
Financial Aid
Students who require assistance to finance their programme of study at the University are encouraged to discuss their financial situation early with their Site administration so that we can help you identify the available options.
Payment Plan
Is paying for your higher and continuing education becoming more difficult?
Do you have questions such as:
• What is financial aid?
• Will there be awards or scholarships available?
• Can I pay my course fees in stages?
• What happens if I can’t pay?
• Who can I talk to in confidence about my situation?
Our Current Financial Alternatives For You
We are very sympathetic to the financial challenges faced by many students and so the Open Campus will do as much as we can to assist students to meet their financial obligations to the University.
Please make an appointment to speak with the Head or the Programme Officer at your local Open Campus site. They will advise you on the steps you need to take to make a payment plan agreement with the Open Campus.
Guidelines for the Payment Plan Agreement
Our Payment Plan Agreements provide short-term financial assistance to cover tuition fees only and are approved for one semester at a time. Payment Plan Agreements are not available for the Summer Session. The Summer Session is a shorter period and for most programmes the Summer Session is optional.
It is not intended that Payment Plan Agreements should be the normal way in which students finance their entire programme. Such agreements are to be made at the discretion of the local Head of the Open Campus Country Site and are used judiciously to assist students who are having specific financial difficulties.
Eligibility
1. Only students who are in good financial standing will be allowed to sign up for the Payment Agreement Plan.
2. Students should demonstrate the need for financial assistance.
3. Students should be registered for a minimum of 9 and a maximum of 15 credits.
Process
- Students must meet with Open Campus Site Heads or Programme Officers to discuss their case.
- Students must pay at least one-third of fees, then complete and sign the Payment Plan Agreement Form and submit it to the Centre for approval.
- Sites will maintain a record of Payment Plan Agreements and payments made.
- A list of students on Payment Plan Agreements and the amounts of each agreement will also be kept by the Bursar/Campus Chief Financial Officer.
- Sites will send out reminders to students one week before the deadline for payment each month.
- Students will receive a copy of the Agreement for their records.
- Failure to make payments or present evidence of payments made by the due date will mean that a student is in default of payment and the actions outlined in the Default Statement will be implemented.
- Failure to pay fees and/or to have an approved Payment Plan Agreement will mean that a student is in default of payment and the actions outlined in the Revised Payment Procedures for 2016/2017 will be implemented.
- Sites will inform the Bursar/Campus Chief Financial Officer if a student is in default of payment.
Payment Schedule
1. Students will be allowed to pay fees in a maximum of three installments.
2. For Semester II 2017/2018 the payment dates are as follows:
- January 30, 2018 - 1st payment (registration ends)
- February 28, 2018 - 2nd payment
- March 30, 2018 - 3rd payment
3. For Semester I 2018/2019 the payment dates are as follows:
- To be announced.
Default Statement
Failure to pay as per the agreed payment schedule and/or failure to present evidence of payment by the due date(s) will constitute a breach of the Payment Plan Agreement and students will be considered to be in default.
In the event of a default, the registration/academic record will remain and the following actions will be taken:
a) Placing a financial hold on the student record
b) Debarment from future registration in any course or programme of the University
c) Withholding of examination results and results of other assessments
d) Denial of academic and administrative services
e) Denial of transcripts, certificates and other records of status
f) Denial of access to the University’s systems and facilities
We Want to Make It Easier for You
We understand how difficult the current economic environment is for many students. In fact, we have held back the base price of many of our courses and programmes for several years in order to make it more affordable for many of our students.
As we work towards making this Open Campus work for you, our very valuable students, we would like to assure you that we are here to help to achieve your academic and personal goals.
GATE
GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE FOR TUITION EXPENSES (GATE)
Under the Government Assistance for Tuition Expenses (GATE) programme, tuition is free for all eligible citizens of Trinidad & Tobago pursuing approved undergraduate programmes at any campus of The University of the West Indies; reading for the Legal Education Certificate at the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad, the Norman Manley Law School in Jamaica or the Eugene Dupuch Law School in The Bahamas. Students pursuing programmes at postgraduate level will be eligible for grants to cover 50% of tuition costs.
Students who receive free tuition will be required to serve the country by working in the public or private sector in Trinidad and Tobago, upon completion of the approved programme. The students must sign an Agreement to work for stipulated periods. Should any student be unable to fulfill his obligation, the assistance received through the GATE programme will have to be refunded to the Government of Trinidad and Tobago.
All citizens of Trinidad and Tobago who wish to access the GATE programme, must provide proof of residency in Trinidad and Tobago for at least three (3) years prior to submitting an application.
With effect from August 2014, the Government of Trinidad & Tobago requires students to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 in order to be eligible for assistance through the GATE programme.
For more information on the GATE programme requirements and how to apply, you should
visit the website http://www.stte.gov.tt
Please see a list of UWI Open Campus GATE Funded Programmes below:
Notice: New Gate Application Procedure
UWI Open Campus: GATE Funded Programmes
Refund Policy
English Language Proficiency Test
The English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT) is used to assess whether persons applying to pursue undergraduate degree programmes at the UWI Open Campus possess a satisfactory level of writing and reading proficiency in English for university academic purposes.
The ELPT is used as a diagnostic tool. Applicants who pass the test are allowed to register for the Foundation Language course. Applicants who fail the test are advised to use the English Language Self-Study Guide to prepare themselves to re-take the test. The results of applicants who pass the test will remain valid for five years.
Please note:
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Please check the ELPT ‘Exemptions’ tab above for details on exemptions from the test.
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The registration and general procedures, the test dates and times and the test locations presented here pertain to the administration of the ELPT for the UWI Open Campus.
ELPT Registration Form
Open Campus students interested in taking this test are required to register for it online through the Student Portal. You will find the registration form on the Student Portal under "Announcements".
Open Campus applicants interested in taking this test are required to register for it online through the Admissions Portal. You should login to the Admissions Portal, then click on the link under your application summary.
If you are not an Open Campus student or applicant and you are interested in taking this test, you are required to register for it online through the ELPT Form link below:
ELPT Dates and Times
- August 8, 2018
- November 1, 2018
- March 14, 2019
- August 8, 2019
ELPT Locations
Open Campus Country Sites regionally.
Registration
Registration & General Procedures
- To register for the test, candidates are required to pay a fee equivalent to BDS$50 / US$25.
- Payments should be made as instructed by your Open Campus Country Site.
- Candidates must bring their receipt and identification bearing a photograph (i.e. driver’s license, passport, UWI student ID card etc.) to the test centre on the day of the test.
- Candidates must write their name and their application ID number or UWI student ID number on the answer booklet provided.
- Test results will be sent to the Open Campus Country Sites.
ELPT Registration Form
Open Campus students interested in taking this test are required to register for it online through the Student Portal. You will find the registration form on the Student Portal under "Announcements".
Open Campus applicants interested in taking this test are required to register for it online through the Admissions Portal. You should login to the Admissions Portal, then click on the link under your application summary.
If you are not an Open Campus student or applicant and you are interested in taking this test, you are required to register for it online through the ELPT Form link below:
Test Format
The ELPT will be administered as a paper test and will last for two hours. It covers the following areas:
Grammar
The focus is on the candidate’s ability to distinguish between correct and incorrect structures rather than on their knowledge of formal grammar. Candidates are required to answer alternative/multiple choice questions on any or all of the following:
• Grammar of the simple sentence
• Grammar of complex/compound sentences
• Idiomatic usage
• Writing mechanics and spelling
Reading
Candidates will be required to read several short passages and answer alternative/multiple choice questions concerning a summary of the main ideas of the passage.
Writing
Candidates are required to write a 500 word essay in which they provide information and ideas on a given topic.
Resources
The following resources are suggested for applicants preparing for the ELPT:
Grammar Texts
Hodge, Merle (1997) The Knots in English: A Manual for Caribbean Users. Massachusetts: Calaloux Publications
Wilson, Paige & Glazier, Teresa (2008) The Least You Should Know About English. 10/E Wadsworth
Reading & Comprehension Texts
Milson-Whyte, Vivette (2003) English for Tertiary Level Study Guide. Mona, Kingston: Department of Language, Linguistics & Philosophy
Morgan, Paula (1998) Language Proficiency for Tertiary Level. St. Augustine, Trinidad: UWIDEC
Essay Writing Texts
Kirszner, Laurie and Stephen Mandell (2000) The Brief Holt Handbook 3rd ed. Fort Worth: Harcourt Brace College Publishers.
Simmons-McDonald, H., Fields, L. Roberts, P. (1997) Writing in English: A Course book for Caribbean Students. Ian Randle Publishers
Online Support
Online Writing Lab (OWL) of Purdue University offers free resources on issues related to grammar, punctuation, general writing and practice exercises. http://owl.english.purdue.edu
Exemptions
Applicants in the following categories (a-f) are NOT required to sit the test:
a) Persons with any ONE of the following English Language qualifications:
(i) Grade 1- CXC English A examination
(ii) Grade A - GCE O Level English Language examination
(iii) Grade A- GCE A/O Level General Paper examination
(iv) Grades 1&2 CAPE (Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination) Communication Studies.
(v) Grade B+ or above College English Skills I or II- College of Bahamas
(vi) Grade B+ or above Advanced Communication or Business Communication - University of Technology (UTECH)
(vii) Grade B+ or above Freshman Composition I or II - Northern Caribbean University (NCU).
b) Persons who are already holders of an undergraduate degree from the UWI or from an approved university, and persons with a Grade B+ or above in a college English course from an approved University.
c) Persons holding a UWI Certificate in Advanced Nursing Education and Administration OR a UWI Licentiate of Theology.
d) Persons holding a UWI Diploma in Mass Communications who have passed the course ‘Media & Language’ (MC52A)
e) Persons who passed (within the past 5 years) the UWI English Language Proficiency Tests offered by any campus.
f) Persons who successfully completed any ONE of the following UWI English Language courses within the last five years: UC010; UC10A; UC10B; UC10C; UC10D; UC10L; UC10H; UC120; FD10A; CM10A; CM10B; FD10C; FD10H.
Frequently Asked Quentions
ACADEMIC ISSUES
Can I do a double major via Open Campus?
No, you cannot pursue a double option via the Open Campus. That option is not available to Open Campus students.
Can I do extra courses that are not a part of my degree programme?
Yes, you can. However you would be required to submit a written request to your Programme Manager seeking permission to do said courses.
What happens after my Programme Manager grants permission for me to do extra courses?
You must submit an override request to your Site at registration time along with evidence of approval. The Site personnel will then submit your override request as well as the approval email to the Open Campus Admissions Department for processing.
Can I pursue two degree programmes at the same time with the Open Campus?
No you can only be registered as a student for one programme at a time
Can I pursue a programme with the Open Campus and one with another campus of The University of the West Indies at the same time?
No you cannot. Although there are different Campuses The University of the West Indies is one institution and the Regulations indicate that you can only be registered in one programme at a time.
APPLICATION
What is the procedure to apply online via the Open Campus?
Go to Admissions Portal and once there proceed to set up an account using your email address. Complete the personal information section and then choose your programme of interest. Once you have completed all area of the online application form, the next step would be to print and sign the application receipt. Lastly, submit your application receipt along with original and one copy of your supporting documents to your Local Site Office.
I am out of the island and I will not be returning before the deadline date to submit my documents. What options are available to me?
You can have a family member take the documents to the Open Campus Site on your behalf. If you have the documents with you, you can take original and one copy to a Justice of the Peace/Notary Republic and have them certified and then arrange to have them couriered directly to the Admissions Department in Trinidad & Tobago or to the Site Office.
Who can I go to for advice on selecting a programme that best suits my needs?
You can acquire that assistance from the nearest Open Campus Student Facility or at the Admissions Department.
How long would it take for me to know if I was accepted into the university?
Upon submission of your application, you should expect to know the outcome within a period of two to four weeks.
How would I know the mode of delivery of my chosen programme?
This information can be obtained at your Local Site Office/Open Campus Student Facility.
If I reside in a country outside of the Caribbean region, can I pursue a graduate programme from that location?
Persons from outside of the Caribbean region may pursue a graduate programme depending on the option that they choose. A few of the graduate programmes are assessed via an end of semester exam. If the programme of interest does not have an end of semester examination, then it would be possibly to pursue the programme even from a non-Caribbean country.
Am I qualified to do any of the programmes offered by the Open Campus?
You can obtain information about the entry requirements for all of our programmes via this link: http://www.open.uwi.edu/programmes. There you will get a detailed overview of the qualifications for all programmes.
Which programmes are available to persons who wish to pursue part-time studies?
All of the Open Campus programmes are offered part-time.
When does the term start?
UWI Open Campus operates on a semester basis. Semester I normally begins in late August and ends in mid-December, Semester II begins mid-January and ends mid-May. Semester III or Summer Semester (compulsory for some programmes and optional for others, your Programme Manager will advise you accordingly) begins mid-May and ends in late July. Full details of these important dates can be found in the Academic Calendar.
I tried to apply for a programme but that option is not visible, why?
The following may be the reason for your inability to apply for your desired programme:
The application period has not been opened or has closed for that programme
You may be selecting the incorrect option to apply for the programme (Undergraduate, Graduate, CPE)
I have forgotten my application username and password, what do I do?
Email our Helpdesk Team for assistance at helpdesk@open.uwi.edu.
DEFERRAL
If I need to defer entry, how should I go about this process?
If you wish to defer your entry, you need to make a written request advising the campus of same. The request should be submitted via email and through your Local Site Office for transmission to the Admissions Department. The request should clearly state your name, student registration number, programme of study, site and length of deferral.
What happens after I request a deferral of entry?
When a deferral of entry is requested, the staff member responsible for this process removes your registration for the semester, changes your student status to “deferred” in the student portal and places a suspension on your account until you are ready to commence the programme.
When is the deadline date to submit a deferral request?
Deferral requests should be submitted by the second week of the semester.
Who is eligible for a deferral?
Deferrals are granted to new students who are unable to start the programme upon acceptance.
If I do not accept my offer, how long will my application be valid?
Your application will be valid for one academic year or two semesters.
What would happen if I do not commence the programme after deferring for two semesters?
If you do not accept your offer after two semesters from time of deferral request, you application will be deemed invalid and you would be required to submit a new application.
If I need to re-apply for entry, would I be required to submit my documents again?
No, you will not be required to re-submit your documents once they were uploaded on your previous online application. If you gained any additional academic qualifications that you wish to add to the new application, then you need only submit `the new information so that your records could be updated.
What is the difference between a regular deferral and a compulsory deferral of entry?
A regular deferral of entry is requested by a new student who is unable to take up the offer upon initial acceptance. A compulsory deferral of entry is not requested by the students. This mechanism was put in place to cater for new students who were unable to meet their financial obligations by the deadline date to pay their fees. In this case the student’s courses are administratively removed from their records and the account is temporarily suspended until the student is ready to commence the programme.
ELPT/EXAMS
Can I do the English Language Proficiency Test before I am assigned a student identification number?
No, you must have a student identification number before you can take the test.
When can I sit the English Language Proficiency Test?
The ELP Test is usually held in the months of March and November of each year.
Where can I obtain my results for the ELP Test?
Your results are sent to your Student Facility for posting up on the Notice Board.
Can I sit the ELP Test if I do not yet have my student identification card?
Yes, you can. As long as you know your student registration number, you just need to walk with your national identification card and you will be admitted to the exam room.
FINANCE
Why do I have a financial clearance hold on my account?
Financial clearance holds appear on your account when you register for courses at the beginning of the semester.
How do I get the financial clearance hold removed from my account?
You need to take your receipt of payment/GATE clearance information to your Student Facility Centre. When this is done, the Site officials will remove the financial clearance hold from your account.
What would happen if I do not receive GATE clearance or I am unable to pay my fees by the given deadline?
You will be automatically de-registered from your courses and placed on Compulsory Deferral (new students) or Compulsory Leave of Absence (returning students) for the semester.
If I withdraw from the programme at the beginning of the semester, will I be eligible for a refund of fees paid?
A: Refunds are possible but it all depends on how early or how late into the semester, you make the withdrawal request. You may follow this link for more information on the Refund Policy.
How do I go about requesting the refund?
The refund form can be found on the Open Campus website via this link: http://www.open.uwi.edu/admissions?qt-undergraduate_admissions=4#qt-undergraduate_admissions
If I am unable to pay my tuition fees all at once, is there a payment plan in place?
Yes, there is a payment plan. For further information you can request details from your Student Facility/Local Site Office.
What is the procedure for accessing the payment plan?
You must meet with your Head of Site/Programme Officers to discuss your case.
You must pay at least one-third of fees, then complete and sign the Payment Plan Agreement Form and submit it to the Centre for approval.
Your Site will send out reminders to you one week before the deadline for payment each month.
You will receive a copy of the Agreement for your records.
Failure to make payments or present evidence of payments made by the due date will mean that you are in default of payment and the actions outlined in the Default Statement will be implemented.
Who is eligible for a payment plan?
If you are in good financial standing you will be eligible to sign up for the
Payment Agreement Plan. You should demonstrate the need for financial assistance and you should be registered for a minimum of 9 and a maximum of 15 credits.
Where can I get information about courses funded by GATE?
You can find information about the courses covered by GATE from the Student Facility office, the Admissions Department or via the Open Campus website at the following link: http://www.open.uwi.edu/sites/default/files/docs/Programme_Information_G...
GRADUATION CEREMONY
How do I know if I will be eligible to graduate from the University?
You will be required to contact your local Open Campus Site to verify that your name is on the graduation list. You are eligible to attend if you receive a letter indicating that you have completed your programme and you are in good financial standing with the University.
Who do I notify/contact if I am interested in attending the graduation ceremony?
If you are planning to attend the Open Campus Graduation Ceremony, you must notify the Senior Assistant Registrar, Assessment, Awards & Records, Open Campus by completing the online Graduation Reply Form.
Would the words “Open Campus” be written on my UWI certificate?
No, your Certificate will look exactly the same as a graduate from the other campuses of The University of the West Indies.
GRADUATE PROGRAMMES
Does Open Campus offer payment plans for Graduate programmes?
Yes, Our Payment Plan Agreements provide short-term financial assistance to cover tuition fees only and are approved for one semester at a time. Payment Plan Agreements are not available for the Summer Session. The Summer Session is a shorter period and for most programmes the Summer Session is optional.
It is not intended that Payment Plan Agreements should be the normal way in which students finance their entire programme. Such agreements are to be made at the discretion of the local Head of the Open Campus Country Site and are used judiciously to assist students who are having specific financial difficulties.
How would I know if I am accepted into a graduate programme?
You will be contacted via email from the respective personnel responsible for the graduate programme informing you when you are accepted and how to log in and accept your offer online.
What is the process for being accepted into the graduate programmes?
All applications are submitted to a Graduate Entrance Committee Board for assessment. Graduate entrance committee meetings are held throughout the application period. The board makes the final decision based on the applicant’s qualifications and experience whether they can be accepted or not into the programme.
What are the different types of graduate degrees?
All graduate programmes offered can be located on the website at http://open.uwi.edu/programmes
What is the length of study for graduate programmes?
Duration of the graduate programmes can be located on the website at http://open.uwi.edu/programmes
Where can I find information about financial aid?
Financial information can be located on the website http://www.open.uwi.edu/admissions.
Is there any financial assistance available for students pursuing graduate programmes?
Yes, students who require assistance to finance their programme of study at the University are encouraged to discuss their financial situation early with their Site administration so that they can help you identify the available options.
How do I apply for exemptions?
A link is provided on the student’s dashboard to apply for exemptions. Please note when registering the deadlines to apply for credit and exemptions for each academic year.
Can I have access to the course material beforehand?
No, students are not given access to course material until they have fully registered for the programme (i.e. register for courses, pay tuition fees, receive financial clearance etc.)
How long does it take for the Graduate Committee take to make a decision?
Depending on the applicant’s status a decision can be made within two-three weeks after submitting an application. Once all supporting documents are received for the applicant the Board will meet and make a decision.
Is it possible to change programme of study after I have submitted my application?
Yes, an applicant can email Charlene Holder (charlene.holder@open.uwi.edu) or Maedica Mc David-Allen (maedica.mcdavid-allen@dec.uwi.edu) of the Registry Staff to request the change.
Does both referee reports need to be completed by academics for Graduate studies applicants?
No, referee reports can be completed by an employer as well.
Can applicants drop in the referee reports on behalf of the referee?
Yes, however your referees must place the completed form in a sealed envelope bearing their signature across the closure. The reports can then be given to you for submission to the site office or mailed to the Registry.
Can I be registered provisionally without submitting all the required documents?
No, the University is no longer facilitating this type of registration. Applicants must submit ALL supporting documents in order to be accepted and registered into the programme.
Can I transfer from one graduate programme to another once I’ve started the programme?
Yes, it can be facilitated based on the student’s progress in the current programme and if permission is granted by the Programme Manager. Please note the deadline to apply for programme transfers.
What is the process for requesting a programme transfer for graduate programmes?
A form is provided on student’s Dashboard to be completed to request a programme transfer.
Who makes the decision regarding programme transfer?
The Academic Programming and Delivery Division (APAD) which consists of the Programme Managers gives approval.
Can I start another programme with OC if my graduation status has not changed?
No, your student status must be changed to “Graduated” before a student can gain entry into another programme.
Do I have to have a first degree to be considered for a graduate degree?
Applicants to the UWI Open Campus Graduate Programmes must satisfy the University Regulations governing admission to a Higher Degree and must generally possess an Honours Degree. Applicants to course-based Masters programmes (M.A., M.Ed., M.Sc., LL.M.) should normally have at least a Lower Second Class Honours degree or equivalent.
Candidates with Pass degrees, who have other relevant qualifications and substantial experience in the field to which they are applying, will be considered for entry to course-based Masters programmes on a case by case basis. Candidates with Pass degrees will normally be considered for entry into Masters programmes no sooner than two (2) years after the completion of the undergraduate degree.
LEAVE OF ABSENCE
How do I apply for a Leave of Absence?
You may apply for a Leave of Absence by obtaining the leave form from your dashboard and filling it out. After completing the form, submit same to your Student Facility for forwarding to the Admissions Department. You can also create the leave request online via your dashboard and the request will be processed by the Admissions Department. After the deadline date passes you can also submit the request via email to the relevant Admissions staff member.
What happens after I submit my leave of absence request?
When you submit your leave request, your Site Coordinator enters the information from the form into the online portal for processing by the relevant Admissions staff. The leave portal closes off when the deadline date arrives. When this happens, the leave of absence form is forwarded to Admissions for processing. Once it arrives in the Registry, the leave of absence is noted on your account, your student status is changed to reflect leave of absence and the student account is temporarily suspended until your return to the programme.
How would I know if my leave of absence is approved?
When your leave of absence is approved, a letter is prepared to that effect and couriered to your Open Campus Student Facility for collection by you.
How much leave of absence can I apply for throughout the period of my academic life?
You are entitled to four semesters of leave during the period of your student life.
How much leave of absence can I apply for at a time?
You can apply for a maximum of two semesters at a time. If after the two semesters have elapsed and your circumstances remain the same, you may submit another request to extend your leave.
What happens if I utilise all of my leave of absence?
If you require more leave of absence after having utilized all of your leave entitlement, the request is submitted to the Academic Board for a recommendation. The other option would be for you to withdraw from the programme and re-apply when your circumstances improved.
What is the deadline for me to apply for Leave of Absence?
Your request should be submitted by the second week of any given semester.
What happens if I need to apply for leave of absence after the deadline date has passed?
You can still submit your request along with a late fine of USD 30.00. In extenuating circumstances, your request will still be assessed and treated accordingly. Some leeway is given on a case by case basis and depending on how late the request was submitted. If the leave cannot be immediately processed due to date of submission, the matter will be forwarded to the Academic Board Student Committee for a decision.
MISCELLANEOUS
Where can I get my timetable for classes?
You can obtain the timetable from your dashboard in the Learning Exchange.
SPECIAL ADMISSIONS
What is the process for me to apply for Special Admission?
You need to download and print a Special Admissions application form from the website of any one of the The UWI campuses or you can obtain the form from the nearest Open Campus Student Facility. Complete the form and return to the Open Campus Office along with your Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate (where applicable), academic and professional certificates and transcript/s (if applicable). The form will be forwarded to the Open Campus Admissions Department for processing.
Would I be eligible to apply for Special Admission?
- Persons sponsored by governments or other employers to read certain courses, not for credit towards a University qualification, under a special arrangement.
- Private individuals who wish to pursue and develop a particular area of intellectual interest.
- Graduates of the University of the West Indies or of other recognised universities who wish to pursue a particular course or courses:
- To equip themselves for a particular job;
- To increase efficiency in the performance of a job;
- To satisfy entry requirements to a programme in this or another
- To update or improve their knowledge in a subject.
- To be considered for entry as “specially admitted students”, applicants should normally be matriculable.
- Those students who do not satisfy the requirements for entry to the University should provide satisfactory evidence of their previous studies. In appropriate cases they may be required to sit a special entrance examination. In the assessment of the qualifications of applicants due allowance shall be made for their maturity.
How many courses can I take as a Specially Admitted student?
Normally, a specially admitted student should be allowed to take no more than (12) credits in any given year; nor more than a total of 24 credits under this category of registration.
TRANSFER
How do I go about transferring from the Main Campus to the Open Campus?
You must complete a Campus Transfer Application form which is normally located on the website of the respective main campus or at the Admissions department of the campus.
You then need to have your application approved by your Faculty/Dean and certified by the Assistant Registrar Admissions of the campus. Your campus will then forward your application form to the UWIOC Registry along with the student transcript.
What happens after I submit my transfer application form?
You will be contacted by UWIOC Registry (RAR) via email indicating that we are in receipt of your application and that you must visit our website to submit an online application.
You would then be required to visit the UWIOC student facility of choice and submit your supporting documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate etc.)
Your application would be assessed and an offer would be given as a transfer student. An account is created in the student portal for you. A copy of the offer letter is sent via email to your local Open Campus UWIOC student facility and the original is forwarded via courier to the student facility for collection.
How are my grades/exam records transferred from the main campus programme to reflect on my Open Campus records?
Your transcript will be forwarded to the UWIOC Examinations Department so that your Exam record in the OC student portal can be updated to reflect the information on your transcript which was supplied by the Admissions department (main campus).
If I am an Open Campus student how do I go about transferring to the Main Campus?
You need to complete a Campus Transfer Application form which is normally located on the website of the respective UWIOC student facilities or you may visit the nearest student facility for a hard copy of the application form.
You need to complete the transfer form and submit it to the UWIOC Site Coordinator or Head of Site, who then approves before forwarding to the UWIOC Registry (RAR).
What happens after the transfer form is received by the Open Campus Registry?
Upon receipt of the application form, your application is forwarded to the Admissions department of the desired campus along with all supporting documents and exam record.
The Admissions department of the Main campus will then assess your application and then contact you when a decision is reached.
Graduate Admissions
Go to the Programmes section for information on the entry requirements for each programme. For a list of the documents that should accompany your application go to Documents Required in the left navigation menu.
If you do not wish to apply for entry to an entire programme but only to some courses in a programme, then follow this link for information on specially admitted or occasional students.
Please note that for regional programmes, applications must be completed online.
You must submit the Application Receipt and all required supporting documents to your Open Campus Site in order to complete the application process. See Locations at the Prospective Students tab on our homepage for Open Campus Sites across the region.
The offer of programmes and courses is subject to the availability of an adequate number of qualified persons.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants to the UWI Open Campus Graduate Programmes must satisfy the University Regulations governing admission to a Higher Degree and must generally possess an Honours Degree. Applicants to course-based Masters programmes (M.A., M.Ed., M.Sc., LL.M.) should normally have at least a Lower Second Class Honours degree or equivalent.
Candidates with Pass degrees, who have other relevant qualifications and substantial experience in the field to which they are applying, will be considered for entry to course-based Masters programmes on a case by case basis.
Candidates with Pass degrees will normally be considered for entry into Masters programmes no sooner than two (2) years after the completion of the undergraduate degree.
Specific matriculation requirements are highlighted in the programme outline under Entry Requirements.
Documents Required
The following documents must be submitted with your on-line application:
-
A resume of your work experience and other related experience that is relevant to your desire to pursue the selected degree programme. Applicants should include contact information of their employer.
- Two (2) Referee Reports (Two academic referee reports are preferred but in certain circumstances one academic referee report and one work referee report could be accepted).
- Signed copy of the Application Receipt (required for all online applications). Please note that this page is presented after you select the ‘Application is Complete’ button.
- Birth Certificate (not required for UWI graduates)
-
Legal Affidavit or deed poll if your present name is different from that on your Birth Certificate
-
Marriage Certificate (where applicable)
- Professional Certificates/Diplomas obtained from institutions other than UWI
- Official Transcripts (for non-UWI graduates. Please note that these must be sent directly from the granting institution).
Transcripts and referee reports must be sent directly to the University. All other documents may be submitted through the Open Campus Country Sites. Applicants are requested to take the originals and a copy to the nearest Site office where their original documents will be notarized and scanned then sent to the Recruitment, Admissions and Registration Department. Please note that the University reserves the right to request the original documents. PLEASE NOTE THAT FORMER STUDENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES ARE NOT REQUIRED TO SUBMIT TRANSCRIPTS.
Transcripts and Referee Reports must be submitted to:
The Assistant Registrar
Recruitment, Admissions and Registration
The UWI Open Campus
Old SCS Building (Adjacent to Central Stationery Stores)
The University of the West Indies
St. Augustine
Trinidad and Tobago W.I.
Fax: (868) 663-4919
Email: admissions@open.uwi.edu
How to Apply
Applications will be ONLY accepted on-line for all programmes.
Interested persons should fill out an application form at Admissions Portal. The instruction sheet can also be downloaded by going to, Instruction Sheet.
Applicants should only submit one application on-line.
Applicants must download two (2) Referee Report forms from the Document Library. These must be completed and submitted under confidential cover on their behalf before the application can be considered.
Financial Information
Self Financing Programmes
Graduate programmes offered by the Open Campus are self financing programmes.
Fees Payable to the University
Payment Procedures for Semester 1, Academic Year 2018/2019
| Supplementary Information on Fees | |
| Student Declaration Form |
CPE Admissions
Applicants to the new CPE programmes are encouraged to contact their nearest Open Campus Country Site for detailed information on programme admission. The information listed below applies generally to all new CPE programmes:
- Applicants should apply using the relevant application forms – these are available at your nearest Open Campus Country Site location.
- Applicants should provide all supporting documentation (national identification, photos, etc.) at the time or application or as soon as possible thereafter.
- Matriculation (entry) requirements may vary depending upon the programme of study – applicants are encouraged to speak with an OC representative to ensure they satisfy any programme requirements.
- Information on how to register for courses each semester may be accessed at your nearest OC Site.
| • | Applicants should apply using the relevant application forms – these are available at your nearest Open Campus Country Site location. |
| • | Applicants should provide all supporting documentation (national identification, photos, etc.) at the time or application or as soon as possible thereafter. |
| • | Matriculation (entry) requirements may vary depending upon the programme of study – applicants are encouraged to speak with an OC representative to ensure they satisfy any programme requirements. |
| • | Information on how to register for courses each semester may be accessed at your nearest OC Site. |
Financial Information
Students are required to pay tuition fees relevant to their programme, administrative services and compulsory fees in accordance with the regulations. Tuition fees are paid by semester at the time of registration.
Fees should be paid by the end of the third week of traditional semester classes and the second week of summer classes. Students who do not comply with payment deadlines may be subject to prohibitions relative to examinations and assessment.
Fees are quoted in your local currency, kindly contact an Open Campus Country Site nearest to you for further information on programme pricing. Students being sponsored by their employer or an organization may request an invoice for each semester which details their financial obligations after registration.
All course and programme fees are subject to change from time to time as mandated by The University of the West Indies.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees cover tuition and examination costs, the costs of materials, teleconferences and tutorials (as appropriate). Tuition fees are paid by semester at the time of registration.
The tuition fees for repeating a course are the same as for a first attempt.
Administrative & Other Fees
In addition to tuition fees, there are Compulsory Fees (ID card, Guild Fees) and Administrative Fees, details of which can be obtained from your Site.
Fees are paid in the local currency of the Site of registration. The base currency for the calculation of fees for regional programmes is the US$.
Tuition Fees
Refund Policy
PLA Admissions
The UWI, Open Campus is inviting applications for admission to regional undergraduate degrees, associate degrees, diplomas and certificates for August and January of each year. See the programmes on offer.
Please note that for regional programmes, applications must be completed online.
You must submit the Application Receipt and all required supporting documents to your Open Campus Site in order to complete the application process. See Locations at the Prospective Students tab on our homepage for Open Campus Sites across the region.
TRACK YOUR APPLICATION
You may track the status of your application anytime by logging on to the Online Admissions Portal using your Login ID and PIN.
All communication from Admissions will be sent to your email address and print copies sent to your Open Campus Site.
LOCAL PROGRAMMES
Many of our sites offer pre-university, professional and continuing education courses, programmes, seminars and workshops face-to-face throughout the year. Please contact your nearest site for information on current offers and the application process.
The offer of programmes and courses is subject to the availability of an adequate number of qualified persons.
Who Can Apply?
Applicant Requirement
PLA applicants should:
(a) be over age 21 years
(b) have at least five (5) years experience relevant to the desired area of study for which PLA is currently available; and
(c) possess non-formal, informal and short-term training in areas relevant to the desired area of study.
Persons interested in PLA must meet the University’s matriculation requirements. Persons will apply to The UWI Open Campus using the online application form.
When the outcomes of a student’s relevant prior learning are assessed and the student achieves a passing Grade (as defined by The UWI Board for Undergraduate Studies), the student will:
(1) earn PLA credits;
(2) be exempted from the comparable course within a programme for which the PLA credits have been allocated;
(3) not be required to take the course for which PLA credits have been earned.
Admission Requirements
These Regulations govern the use of PLA for advanced placement. PLA applicants are required to satisfy the relevant University minimum entrance requirements for matriculation, either at Normal or Lower Level, before being considered for admission to degree or other programmes. These are explained below:
Normal Matriculation
Applicants with the qualifications listed below are eligible for normal matriculation for admission to degree programmes, provided that they have an acceptable pass in English A in an examination of the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) or an acceptable equivalent. (An acceptable pass in a CXC (CSEC) examination is defined as a pass with Grades I or II at the General Proficiency Level, or Grade III General Proficiency from June 1998.)
1. Holders of CXC Certificates, General Certificates of Education (GCE)
Holders of CXC Certificates, General Certificates of Education (GCE) (or the approved equivalents) who satisfy either Scheme A or Scheme B as stated below:
Scheme A: They possess FIVE (5) subjects of which at least TWO (2) must be GCE Advanced Level (‘A’ Level) passes, while the remainder may be acceptable passes in the CXC or GCE ‘O’ Level examinations.
Scheme B: They possess passes in FOUR (4) subjects of which at least THREE must be GCE A-Level passes, while the fourth may be an acceptable pass in the CXC or GCE ‘O’ Level examinations.
CXC CAPE (Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination)
(i) Candidates who have passed two 2-unit courses in a particular subject area fall within the two (2) ‘A’ Level matriculation standing (Reference Scheme A).
(ii) Six (6) Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) Units, including the two single-unit courses – Caribbean Studies and Communication Studies will be accepted for normal matriculation (Reference Scheme B).
2. Holders of Degrees from any university recognised by the Board for Undergraduate Studies.
3. Holders of Certificates and Diplomas awarded by this University.
4. Holders of an Associate Degree from the UWI, or from approved Caribbean tertiary level institutions with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
5. Persons over age 21 based on having demonstrated academic potential, having gained academically relevant knowledge and workplace experience. Applicants will be required to present, where appropriate:
Full details of their career; a document outlining knowledge development and employment record, official academic transcripts, certificate, documents and references. Applicants may be required to submit to test and/or interviews.
Lower Level Matriculation
Holders of the following are eligible for lower level matriculation for admission to degree programmes:
1. Holders of five (5) CXC or GCE ‘O’ Level passes or equivalent, not necessarily obtained at the same sitting, as follows:
(i) English (A), and
(ii) Mathematics or a foreign language, or an approved science (not Health Science), or additional Mathematics or Geography
(iii) Three (3) other approved subjects not already counted above.
2. Persons over the age of 21 on the basis of their overall academic and professional attainments.
3. Holders of one of the approved certificates from the School of Continuing Studies with an acceptable pass in English Language.
Mature Students
Mature applicants are persons over the age of 21 years who have been out of secondary school for at least five (5) years. Such applicants may be granted normal or lower level matriculation on the basis of their overall academic and professional achievements.
Specially Admitted & Occasional Students
Candidates may be admitted to take select courses under the categories of Specially Admitted or Occasional Students. Occasional Students are only permitted to attend face-to-face classes and may not write examinations. Specially Admitted Students may register for online/blended and face-to-face courses and are permitted to write examinations. Specially Admitted/Occasional Students normally must meet matriculation requirements. For more information see Specially Admitted & Occasional Students.
Regulations for Specially Admitted Students
In addition to the students admitted to courses leading to degrees, the Vice Chancellor may admit to the University as specially admitted students, for limited periods, persons who comply with the following regulations.
Special Admission
The following persons are eligible for special admission:
(1) Persons sponsored by governments or other employers to read certain courses, not for credit towards a University qualification, under a special arrangement.
(2) Private individuals who wish to pursue and develop a particular area of intellectual interest.
(3) Graduates of the University of the West Indies or of other recognised universities who wish to pursue a particular course or courses:
(a) to equip themselves for a particular job;
(b) to increase efficiency in the performance of a job;
(c) to satisfy entry requirements to a programme in this or another institution;
(d) to update or improve their knowledge in a subject.
(i) Such students should be known as “specially admitted students”.
(ii) Applications for special permission must be made on the appropriate form.
(iii) To be considered for entry as “specially admitted students”, applicants should normally be matriculable.
(iv) Those students who do not satisfy the requirements for entry to the University should provide satisfactory evidence of their previous studies. In appropriate cases they may be required to sit a special entrance examination. In the assessment of the qualifications of applicants due allowance shall be made for their maturity.
(v) Specially admitted students shall be required to pay the appropriate fees as are in force.
(vi) Such students shall be required to comply with the General Regulations for Students as are in force.
(vii) Normally, a specially admitted student should be allowed to take no more than (12) credits in any given year; nor more than a total of 24 credits under this category of registration.
(viii) Specially admitted students are permitted to write the University examinations appropriate to the course(s) they have been allowed to pursue.
(ix) Their membership of the University shall be subject to satisfactory reports on their work and conduct.
(x) The credits obtained through special admissions can be counted towards UWI certification and University programmes provided they have been obtained within such time limits as are set from time to time by the Institution.
English Language Requirement
Potential PLA applicants without University-level English will be required to take the English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT).
Holders of the following qualifications are exempt from the ELPT
(i) Grade 1 – CXC English ‘A’ examination
(ii) Grade A – GCE ‘O’ Level English Language
(iii) Grade A or B – Cambridge GCE A/O Level General Paper examination
(iv) Grades I-II CXC CAPE Communication Studies
(v) Grade B+ or above – College English Skills I or II – College of the Bahamas
(vi) Grade B+ or above – Advanced Communication or Business Communication – University of Technology (UTECH)
(vii) Grade B+ or above – Freshman Composition I or II – Northern Caribbean University (NCU).
See ELPT for further information
Mathematics Requirement
For entry into certain BSc programmes an approved qualification in Mathematics is required. The minimum Mathematics requirement is a pass at CXC General Proficiency or the equivalent. Candidates who do not meet this requirement must successfully complete an approved remedial Mathematics course. Approved remedial Mathematics courses include “Improving your Math Skills (IYMS)” and “MATH0900/CE001 Mathematics”.
Technical Requirements
Students applying to online/distance and mixed-mode programmes should be comfortable using a personal computer and email. Students will need to have access to a computer with Internet access.
As for the English Language and Mathematics requirements, an appropriate access/remedial computer literacy course may be recommended for persons not meeting the technical requirements.
Documents Required
You must submit the supporting documents identified below together with your Application Receipt to complete the application process.
Applicants should
- print and sign the Application Receipt
- attach a passport size photograph using glue
- submit the signed Application Receipt together with the original and one photocopy of the supporting documents below to your Open Campus Site within a week of your application.
The Site staff will certify the photocopies of your documents and return the originals to you.
Supporting Documents
- Birth certificate OR Valid National ID OR Valid Passport Or Valid Driver's Licence
- Academic certificates/grade slips
- Professional certificates/diplomas (where applicable)
- Official Transcripts
- Marriage certificate (where applicable)
- Deed poll/Legal Affidavit if the present name is different from that on the Birth Certificate. (Each name must be spelt correctly and also correctly hyphenated, where necessary.)
- TOEFL Examination Score (applicable to candidates whose native language is not English). A TOEFL Score of 500 or greater is preferred.
These documents must be submitted within one week of submitting an online application.
Applications will not be fully processed without the applicable documents.
NB Applications will not be considered if there is any indication that the supporting documents have been altered in any way.
Submission of Transcripts
Transcripts are required if you have a professional certificate, diploma, and/or university degree from an institution other than The University of the West Indies. Transcripts should be forwarded by June 30 for August admission and November 30 for January admission directly from the issuing institution to:
Assistant Registrar
Recruitment, Admissions & Registration
Open Campus
UWI, St. Augustine
Trinidad
How to Apply
The Open Campus accepts online applications only for regional programmes. You must have an email address to begin the process.
STEP 1: GO TO THE ONLINE ADMISSIONS SYSTEM
Go to the Online Admissions system and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the application in full. You do not have to complete your application in one sitting. You can start the process and complete it any time before the deadline using your Login ID and PIN. Please read all instructions carefully before you proceed to the Online Admissions Portal.
STEP 2: SET UP YOUR ACCOUNT
Create a Login account using your email address. The Admissions System will send you a verification email to your email address with a special webpage address. You must respond to confirm that your email is valid and working by clicking on the webpage address. Once your email has been verified you will receive your Login ID and PIN. You will use your Login ID and PIN to logon to the Online Admissions Portal. Make a note of your Login ID and PIN since you will need these to access your application information after you log out of the system. NB: Sometimes the verification email is directed to your junk mail folder, so please check your junk mail if the verification email is not in your Inbox.
STEP 3: COMPLETE THE PROFILE SECTION
The profile section covers biographic data, emergency contact information, academic history, employment information and reference information. Complete all sections, making sure you save your data if you logout before completing your profile.
STEP 4: CHOOSE YOUR PROGRAMME
Once you have completed your profile, you will be able to move on to the programme section to choose the programme you wish to study. See programmes for details on programmes offered.
STEP 5: PRINT AND SIGN APPLICATION RECEIPT
Once you have completed all the steps in the process, you should print and sign the Application Receipt. Attach a passport size photograph using glue.
STEP 6: SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION RECEIPT & SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
Submit the signed Application Receipt together with the original and one photocopy of the supporting documents to your Open Campus Site within a week of your application. The Site staff will certify the photocopies of your documents and return the originals to you. You must submit all the required documents in order to complete the application process.
Applications will not be fully processed without the applicable documents.
APPLY NOW
Have you
- read all the instructions?
- got the information required for the profile section?
- chosen your programme?
APPLY NOW AT THE ONLINE ADMISSIONS PORTAL
TRACK YOUR APPLICATION
You may track the status of your application anytime by logging on to the Online Admissions Portal using your Login ID and PIN.
All communication from Admissions will be sent to your email address and print copies sent to your Open Campus Site.
HELP
Applicants who encounter problems with any of our online systems can email our Help Desk at helpdesk@open.uwi.edu for assistance.
Financial Information
Fees
There will be a non-refundable application fee of US$25.00 or the equivalent.
PLA Students will also pay a fee of US$360.00 or equivalent for the online portfolio preparation course (inclusive of the cost for assessment of each completed portfolio. For late submission of the learning portfolio, US$150.00 will be charged.
Scholarships Available
DFATD/SDEC-UWI Open Campus Scholarship 2015/2016
| Supplementary Information on Fees | |
| Student Declaration Form |
|
| GAC/SDEC-UWI Open Campus Scholarship Application Form |
English Language Proficiency Test
The English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT) is used to assess whether persons applying to pursue undergraduate degree programmes at the UWI Open Campus possess a satisfactory level of writing and reading proficiency in English for university academic purposes.
The ELPT is used as a diagnostic tool. Applicants who pass the test are allowed to register for the Foundation Language course. Applicants who fail the test are advised to use the English Language Self-Study Guide to prepare themselves to re-take the test. The results of applicants who pass the test will remain valid for five years.
Please note:
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Please check the ELPT ‘Exemptions’ tab above for details on exemptions from the test.
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The registration and general procedures, the test dates and times and the test locations presented here pertain to the administration of the ELPT for the UWI Open Campus.
ELPT Registration Form
Open Campus students interested in taking this test are required to register for it online through the Student Portal. You will find the registration form on the Student Portal under "Announcements".
Open Campus applicants interested in taking this test are required to register for it online through the Admissions Portal. You should login to the Admissions Portal, then click on the link under your application summary.
If you are not an Open Campus student or applicant and you are interested in taking this test, you are required to register for it online through the ELPT Form link below:
ELPT Dates and Times
- August 8, 2018
- November 1, 2018
- March 14, 2019
- August 8, 2019
ELPT Locations
Open Campus Country Sites regionally.
Registration
Registration & General Procedures
- To register for the test, candidates are required to pay a fee equivalent to BDS$50 / US$25.
- Payments should be made as instructed by your Open Campus Country Site.
- Candidates must bring their receipt and identification bearing a photograph (i.e. driver’s license, passport, UWI student ID card etc.) to the test centre on the day of the test.
- Candidates must write their name and their application ID number or UWI student ID number on the answer booklet provided.
- Test results will be sent to the Open Campus Country Sites.
ELPT Registration Form
Open Campus students interested in taking this test are required to register for it online through the Student Portal. You will find the registration form on the Student Portal under "Announcements".
Open Campus applicants interested in taking this test are required to register for it online through the Admissions Portal. You should login to the Admissions Portal, then click on the link under your application summary.
If you are not an Open Campus student or applicant and you are interested in taking this test, you are required to register for it online through the ELPT Form link below:
Test Format
The ELPT will be administered as a paper test and will last for two hours. It covers the following areas:
Grammar
The focus is on the candidate’s ability to distinguish between correct and incorrect structures rather than on their knowledge of formal grammar. Candidates are required to answer alternative/multiple choice questions on any or all of the following:
• Grammar of the simple sentence
• Grammar of complex/compound sentences
• Idiomatic usage
• Writing mechanics and spelling
Reading
Candidates will be required to read several short passages and answer alternative/multiple choice questions concerning a summary of the main ideas of the passage.
Writing
Candidates are required to write a 500 word essay in which they provide information and ideas on a given topic.
Resources
The following resources are suggested for applicants preparing for the ELPT:
Grammar Texts
Hodge, Merle (1997) The Knots in English: A Manual for Caribbean Users. Massachusetts: Calaloux Publications
Wilson, Paige & Glazier, Teresa (2008) The Least You Should Know About English. 10/E Wadsworth
Reading & Comprehension Texts
Milson-Whyte, Vivette (2003) English for Tertiary Level Study Guide. Mona, Kingston: Department of Language, Linguistics & Philosophy
Morgan, Paula (1998) Language Proficiency for Tertiary Level. St. Augustine, Trinidad: UWIDEC
Essay Writing Texts
Kirszner, Laurie and Stephen Mandell (2000) The Brief Holt Handbook 3rd ed. Fort Worth: Harcourt Brace College Publishers.
Simmons-McDonald, H., Fields, L. Roberts, P. (1997) Writing in English: A Course book for Caribbean Students. Ian Randle Publishers
Online Support
Online Writing Lab (OWL) of Purdue University offers free resources on issues related to grammar, punctuation, general writing and practice exercises. http://owl.english.purdue.edu
Exemptions
Applicants in the following categories (a-f) are NOT required to sit the test:
a) Persons with any ONE of the following English Language qualifications:
(i) Grade 1- CXC English A examination
(ii) Grade A - GCE O Level English Language examination
(iii) Grade A- GCE A/O Level General Paper examination
(iv) Grades 1&2 CAPE (Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination) Communication Studies.
(v) Grade B+ or above College English Skills I or II- College of Bahamas
(vi) Grade B+ or above Advanced Communication or Business Communication - University of Technology (UTECH)
(vii) Grade B+ or above Freshman Composition I or II - Northern Caribbean University (NCU).
b) Persons who are already holders of an undergraduate degree from the UWI or from an approved university, and persons with a Grade B+ or above in a college English course from an approved University.
c) Persons holding a UWI Certificate in Advanced Nursing Education and Administration OR a UWI Licentiate of Theology.
d) Persons holding a UWI Diploma in Mass Communications who have passed the course ‘Media & Language’ (MC52A)
e) Persons who passed (within the past 5 years) the UWI English Language Proficiency Tests offered by any campus.
f) Persons who successfully completed any ONE of the following UWI English Language courses within the last five years: UC010; UC10A; UC10B; UC10C; UC10D; UC10L; UC10H; UC120; FD10A; CM10A; CM10B; FD10C; FD10H.
