The Open University (OU) is the UK's istance learning university and has an open entry policy, i.e. students' previous academic achievements are not taken into account for entry to most undergraduate courses . It was established in 1969; and the first students started in January 1971. The majority of students are based in the UK, but its courses can be studied anywhere in the world. The administration is based at Walton Hall, Milton Keynes in Buckinghamshire, but has regional centres in each of its thirteen regions around the UK. It also has offices in other European countries. The university awards undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, diplomas and certificates.