Nigerian universities accept applications from suitably qualified candidates to study at various levels. Your intended level of study will determine what type of qualifications that would be asked of you. However, in addition to JAMB various universities have their methods of admitting students to certain courses. Hence, applicants are strongly advised to make effort to get in touch with their proposed university directly for detail information about course requirements or to make enquiry through Nuguide about how to apply.
You can find the standard methods of application to study at Nigerian universities below.
Application through JAMB
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is the official body that is responsible for conducting exams into Nigerian universities. The examination takes place once in a year and it is meant for those secondary school students who have the required grades to study at university level. The required grades are usually obtained through WAEC and NECO at the end of their secondary school education. The JAMB body works in partnership with tertiary institutions and educational stakeholders in Nigeria to administer the exam. Applications for undergraduate studies are processed through this body after which successful applicants can proceed to take the Post-UME exams at their chosen university. JAMB also processes applications for ‘Direct Entry’ students. Such students usually start at 200 Level (second year level) at university. For more information about the JAMB exam, visit www.jamb.gov.ng.
Direct Entry
Certain applicants with appropriate qualifications can be admitted to study for a degree without taking the JAMB exam. Universities often accept such applicants through the direct entry route. Universities are at liberty to accept direct entry students without following the JAMB procedures. The rules universities use in admitting students through this route are not the same nation-wide. Although the requirements asked by different universities vary, for an applicant to be accepted through this route, a minimum of OND or the NCE is a requirement.
Pre-degree/ Remedial Studies
This is a preparatory course for students who are aiming for the undergraduate study, but lack the required WAEC/NECO results for a degree study. Some universities call it pre-degree programme, while some call it foundation or remedial studies. The programme gives students the right academic orientation. The Pre-degree courses usually last one academic year for full-time students or longer for part-time students. It prepares them for university education and gives a solid foundation to those that do not have the necessary Ordinary Level results for their chosen course. Most students who successfully complete their pre-degree programme usually gain admission to study at undergraduate level.
