University of the People (UoPeople) is a private, non-profit, fully online university based in Pasadena, California, United States. Founded in 2009 by education entrepreneur Shai Reshef, the institution is widely known as the world’s first tuition-free, accredited online university. UoPeople provides accessible higher education to students across more than 200 countries, offering flexible, self-paced degree programmes designed for working professionals and learners who cannot attend traditional universities. The university is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission, a recognized accrediting agency in the United States, reinforcing its global academic credibility.
History of the Institution
University of the People was established in 2009 with a mission to make higher education accessible to everyone, regardless of financial, geographic, or social limitations. Founded by Shai Reshef, the university introduced a tuition-free model where students only pay minimal assessment fees, breaking traditional barriers to university education.
From its early years, UoPeople focused on delivering fully online degree programmes using a peer-to-peer learning model supported by academic instructors. Over time, the university expanded its offerings from a few foundational programmes to a broader range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in fields such as business administration, computer science, health science, and education.
A major milestone in the university’s development came in 2025 when it achieved regional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission, placing it among globally recognized higher education institutions. This marked a significant upgrade in credibility and international recognition for its degrees.
Today, University of the People has grown into one of the largest online universities globally, with over 150,000 students from diverse backgrounds, including refugees and underserved populations, reflecting its commitment to educational inclusion.
Location
University of the People (UoPeople)
Pasadena, California, United States
UoPeople operates as a fully online university, meaning students can study from anywhere in the world, including Nigeria, without the need for a physical campus.
List of Courses Offered by University of the People
UoPeople offers degree programmes across several academic fields:
Undergraduate Programmes
- Business Administration
- Computer Science
- Health Science
Associate Degree Programmes
- Business Administration
- Computer Science
- Health Science
Postgraduate Programmes
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Education (M.Ed.)
- Master of Information Technology (MSIT)
Certificate Programmes
- Various short-term academic certificates in business and IT-related fields
All programmes are delivered entirely online through a structured virtual learning system.
Please check school website or latest news below for newest update.
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- Completion of secondary school education (equivalent to WAEC/NECO)
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
- Online application through the official portal
Postgraduate Admission
- Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
- Additional programme-specific requirements
Notably, UoPeople does not require JAMB, making it accessible to Nigerian students and international applicants.
Please check school website or latest news below for newest update.
School Fees
University of the People operates a tuition-free model, but students pay minimal assessment fees per course.
- Undergraduate assessment fees: approximately $120 per course
- Graduate assessment fees: approximately $240 per course
- Scholarships are available for students who cannot afford the fees
This structure makes UoPeople one of the most affordable accredited universities globally.
Please check school website or latest news below for newest update.
Cut-off Mark
University of the People does not use JAMB or traditional cut-off marks.
Admission is based on:
- Academic qualifications
- Online application review
Please check school website or latest news below for newest update.
Post-UTME / Screening Information
UoPeople does not conduct Post-UTME screening.
- Admission is processed fully online
- Documents are submitted digitally
- No physical screening required
Please check school website or latest news below for newest update.
Hostel / Accommodation
University of the People does not provide hostel accommodation, as it is a fully online institution.
Students study remotely from anywhere in the world.
Please check school website or latest news below for newest update.
Campus Facilities
Instead of physical infrastructure, UoPeople provides a digital learning environment:
- Online learning platform (Virtual Campus)
- Student Information System (SIS)
- E-library resources
- Discussion forums and peer learning tools
Student Life
Student life at UoPeople is built around a global online community:
- Interaction with students from over 200 countries
- Flexible study schedules
- Peer-to-peer learning system
- Academic advisors and online support
This model is especially suitable for working professionals and distance learners.
Notable Alumni
University of the People has a growing global alumni network working in organizations such as major multinational companies, but there are currently limited widely documented individual notable alumni in public sources.
Please check school website or latest news below for newest update.
Official Website and Portal Links
Official Website: https://www.uopeople.edu/
Apply Online: https://www.uopeople.edu/apply/
Programmes: https://www.uopeople.edu/programs/
Student Portal (Online Campus / SIS): https://sis.miva.university/
Contact Information
University of the People
Pasadena, California, United States
Website: https://www.uopeople.edu/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is University of the People accredited?
Yes. UoPeople is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission, a recognized accrediting body in the United States.
Is University of the People legit?
Yes. It is a legitimate, accredited, non-profit online university with global recognition and students from over 200 countries.
Is University of the People really free?
Tuition is free, but students pay assessment fees per course.
What courses are offered at UoPeople?
Courses include Business Administration, Computer Science, Health Science, Education, and Information Technology.
How do I log into UoPeople online campus?
Students log in through the Student Information System (SIS) or online campus portal using their registered credentials.
Do I need JAMB to apply for UoPeople?
No, JAMB is not required.
Where is University of the People located?
It is based in Pasadena, California, USA, but operates fully online.
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