Best Ways To Gain Admission Into Nigerian Universities Without Jamb: Updated Guide
Gaining admission into a Nigerian university without writing the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination is a dream for many students. While JAMB is the most common pathway to higher education in Nigeria, there are alternative routes that allow students to secure admission without going through the stress of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
This article will explore the best ways to gain admission into Nigerian universities without JAMB, highlighting their requirements, benefits, and how to apply successfully.
Why Look for Alternatives to JAMB?
JAMB is a competitive examination, with millions of candidates applying yearly for limited university slots. Some students seek alternatives for various reasons, including:
- Failure to meet the JAMB cut-off mark
- Desire to avoid JAMB’s long admission process
- Preference for direct entry programs
- Seeking flexibility in education (e.g., part-time or distance learning)
Whatever your reason, there are several legitimate ways to gain admission into Nigerian universities without JAMB.
Top Ways to Gain Admission Without JAMB
1. IJMB (Interim Joint Matriculation Board)
The Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB) is one of the most popular alternatives to JAMB. It is an advanced-level program that allows students to gain direct entry admission into 200 level in Nigerian universities.
How IJMB Works
- The program lasts 9–12 months, after which students take an examination.
- Students must register and complete coursework at an IJMB-affiliated study center.
- Upon successful completion, students apply for direct entry admission into their preferred university.
- Most universities in Nigeria accept IJMB for direct entry admissions.
Benefits of IJMB
- Admission into 200 level without JAMB
- Widely recognized by many Nigerian universities
- Flexible study schedule
- A second chance for students who failed JAMB
How to Apply for IJMB
- Register through an approved IJMB study center
- Pay the required fees (varies depending on the institution)
- Attend lectures and write the final IJMB exam
- Apply for direct entry admission into a university of choice
2. JUPEB (Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board)
The JUPEB program is another excellent alternative to JAMB. It is an advanced-level program run by some Nigerian universities to prepare students for direct entry admission into 200 level.
How JUPEB Works
- The program lasts 9–12 months.
- Students take courses in their desired field (e.g., Science, Arts, or Social Sciences).
- After completing the program, students apply for direct entry admission into universities.
Benefits of JUPEB
- No need for JAMB
- Admission into 200 level in participating universities
- Recognized by top Nigerian universities
- Higher success rate compared to JAMB
How to Apply for JUPEB
- Find an accredited JUPEB-affiliated university or study center
- Pay the required tuition fees
- Attend classes and take the final JUPEB exam
- Apply for direct entry admission to your chosen university
3. National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) offers flexible admission without requiring JAMB. NOUN is Nigeria’s largest open-distance learning institution, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields.
How NOUN Works
- NOUN operates on an open and distance learning system.
- Admission is available for all categories of students, including working-class individuals.
- No need to write JAMB or meet specific cut-off marks.
Benefits of NOUN
- No JAMB or post-UTME required
- Flexible learning schedule (great for working students)
- Accredited by the NUC (National Universities Commission)
- No strike or academic disruptions
How to Apply for NOUN
- Visit the NOUN official website (www.nou.edu.ng)
- Choose a program and apply online
- Pay the required tuition fees
- Begin studies at your convenience
4. Private Universities Admission Without JAMB
Several private universities in Nigeria offer direct admission without requiring JAMB. These universities conduct their own entrance examinations or accept alternative qualifications like IJMB or JUPEB.
Examples of Private Universities That Accept Admission Without JAMB
- Babcock University
- Bowen University
- Igbinedion University
- Madonna University
- Afe Babalola University
- Redeemer’s University
Benefits of Private Universities
- Admission is less competitive compared to public universities
- No strikes or disruptions in academic activities
- Flexible admission requirements
How to Apply to Private Universities
- Visit the university’s official website
- Complete the admission form
- Pay application fees and meet other requirements
- Write the school’s entrance examination (if applicable)
5. Pre-degree Programs
Pre-degree programs serve as a preparatory course for students who do not meet the requirements for direct university admission. These programs last for 6–12 months, after which students take an examination to qualify for university admission.
How Pre-degree Programs Work
- Students apply for the pre-degree program at their chosen university.
- After completing the program, students must meet the required score to transition into a full-degree program.
- Some universities may still require students to take JAMB but with a reduced score requirement.
Universities That Offer Pre-degree Programs
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
Benefits of Pre-degree Programs
- A second chance for students who did not pass JAMB
- Admission into full-degree programs upon successful completion
- Prepares students for university-level education
How to Apply for Pre-degree Programs
- Check the university’s website for pre-degree application details
- Complete and submit the application form
- Pay the required fees and attend the program
6. Diploma to Degree (ND/HND to B.Sc.)
For students who have a National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) from a polytechnic, direct entry admission into a university without JAMB is possible.
How It Works
- Students with an ND or HND can apply for direct entry (DE) admission into 200 or 300 level at a university.
- Many universities accept ND/HND holders for degree programs through Direct Entry (DE) admissions.
Benefits of ND/HND to B.Sc. Admission
- No JAMB required
- Direct entry into 200 or 300 level
- Faster route to obtaining a university degree
How to Apply
- Obtain a Direct Entry (DE) form from JAMB
- Apply to your preferred university offering ND/HND-to-B.Sc. conversion
- Meet all additional admission requirements
Conclusion
Gaining admission into Nigerian universities without JAMB is possible through several legitimate alternatives. Whether you choose IJMB, JUPEB, NOUN, private universities, pre-degree programs, or ND/HND-to-B.Sc. conversion, there are multiple pathways to achieve your academic goals.
Final Tips for Admission Without JAMB
✔ Research and confirm that your preferred institution is accredited by the NUC
✔ Avoid fraudulent agents who promise "easy admission" into universities
✔ Consider the cost, duration, and acceptance rate of your chosen program
With determination and the right information, you can successfully gain admission into a Nigerian university without JAMB and achieve your academic dreams.