Can students gain admission into a university without JAMB, and what alternative routes are available?
While the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is the primary route for university admission in Nigeria, there are alternative pathways available:
1. Direct Entry (DE)
- What it is: A route for candidates with advanced qualifications to gain admission into a higher level of study (e.g., 200 level) without taking the UTME.
- Requirements: Meet specific university requirements and have qualifications beyond traditional secondary school certificates.
- Examples: GCE A/Levels, National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), IJMB, JUPEB.
2. Pre-Degree/Remedial Programs
- What it is: University programs that serve as a pathway to gaining admission, potentially exempting students from the UTME requirement.
- How it works: Successful completion of these programs can lead to admission into the university.
3. Institutions that Don't Require UTME
- What it is: Some universities, particularly open universities, may not require students to take the UTME for admission.
- Examples: Miva Open University, Lead City University, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
These alternative routes offer flexibility and opportunities for students who may not have taken the UTME or have advanced qualifications.
In Nigeria, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exam is the standard and primary way to gain admission into most universities. However, some universities offer alternative admission routes that don’t require JAMB, especially for certain categories of candidates.
ReplyDeleteCan Students Gain Admission Without JAMB?
Generally, no — most universities require JAMB to process admission. But there are exceptions and alternative routes:
Alternative Routes into Nigerian Universities Without JAMB
Direct Entry (DE) Admissions
For candidates with advanced qualifications like A-levels, IJMB (Interim Joint Matriculation Board), National Diploma (ND), or Higher National Diploma (HND).
You apply directly to the university’s Direct Entry program, bypassing JAMB UTME.
Requires meeting the university’s cut-off marks and department requirements.
Pre-Degree or Remedial Programs
Some universities offer pre-degree or foundation programs for students who don’t have JAMB.
After completing the program, students can gain admission into degree programs.
Mature Student Admissions
Designed for older applicants who may not have JAMB but have relevant work experience or qualifications.
These admissions often require passing an internal exam or interview.
International Students
Foreign applicants often don’t write JAMB but apply through their embassy or directly to universities with their foreign qualifications.
Some Private Universities and Specialized Institutions
May have more flexible admission requirements and sometimes accept candidates without JAMB, especially for part-time or diploma courses.
Important Notes:
Even in Direct Entry, you may need to register with JAMB but won’t write the UTME exam.
Always check the specific university’s admission guidelines because policies vary.