EDUCATION

Can I Use ND or HND to Study in the USA?

Many Nigerian students holding a National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) often wonder if these qualifications are accepted for further studies in the United States. The simple answer is yes—ND and HND holders can study in the USA, but how your qualification is evaluated and what level of study you’re eligible for will depend on several factors.

If you’re planning to upgrade your credentials or switch to a bachelor’s or master’s degree, understanding how your diploma is viewed by U.S. institutions will help you make informed choices.

1. What Is ND and HND in the Nigerian Context?

A National Diploma (ND) is usually obtained after two years of study at a polytechnic or technical institution in Nigeria. A Higher National Diploma (HND) is earned after an additional two years, typically after completing an ND and a one-year industrial training.

These qualifications are respected in Nigeria, but outside the country, especially in places like the U.S., they are evaluated differently.

2. Can You Use ND to Apply for a U.S. Bachelor’s Degree?

Yes, you can. ND holders can apply for undergraduate programs in the United States. However, the number of credits that can be transferred depends on the institution’s evaluation of your transcript. Most U.S. universities and colleges will request an official transcript and may require it to be evaluated by a third-party credential service like WES (World Education Services) or ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators).

Some of your ND courses may be accepted as equivalent to first-year or second-year university courses in the U.S., which means you might not have to start all over again. However, not all courses will necessarily transfer.

3. What About HND? Can It Be Used for Postgraduate Admission?

HND holders often face more questions when trying to apply for a master’s program in the U.S. The main reason is that the HND is considered a vocational qualification, and not all universities see it as equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree.

That said, many schools in the U.S. do accept HND holders—especially when combined with strong academic records, work experience, or relevant certifications. Some schools may require you to complete a pre-master’s or a postgraduate diploma program before granting full admission into a master’s program.

4. Pathways for ND and HND Holders

Transfer to a U.S. University: ND holders can apply as transfer students to universities in the U.S. You’ll need to submit your ND transcript, and after evaluation, you may be granted advanced standing in a bachelor’s degree program.
Top-up or Upgrade Program: HND holders can apply for “top-up” programs, sometimes known as bachelor’s completion programs. These programs allow you to earn a full bachelor’s degree in 1–2 years, depending on the number of credits transferred.
Bridge Programs and Pre-Master’s: Some universities offer pathway programs that prepare HND holders for a master’s degree. These include pre-master’s, graduate certificates, or diploma programs that serve as stepping stones.
Direct Master’s Admission (In Some Cases): A few U.S. institutions are more flexible and may admit HND holders directly into a master’s program if the applicant has strong academic performance, relevant work experience, and outstanding letters of recommendation.

5. Required Documents for Application

Whether you’re applying for undergraduate or postgraduate studies, here are the documents commonly required:

Academic transcripts from ND or HND programs
Statement of Purpose
Recommendation letters
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS)
Credential evaluation report (WES, ECE, etc.)
Copy of passport
Resume or CV (especially for postgraduate applicants)

6. Credential Evaluation for ND and HND

One of the most important steps is credential evaluation. Most U.S. universities will not process ND or HND transcripts directly. You’ll need to send your academic records to an evaluation agency that converts your grades and coursework into U.S. equivalents.

Popular agencies include:

World Education Services (WES)
Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE)
International Education Research Foundation (IERF)

The result of this evaluation determines how much credit you’ll receive for past coursework and what academic level you’ll be admitted to.

7. Scholarships and Financial Aid

While scholarships for ND and HND holders are not always advertised directly, you may still be eligible for merit-based or need-based scholarships, especially after admission. Some institutions offer transfer student scholarships or international grants. Always check with your prospective university about available funding.

8. Recommended U.S. Schools That Accept ND or HND

Many universities in the U.S. are open to evaluating and accepting ND and HND credentials. Here are a few known to work with international students from Nigeria: