Top 10 Nigerian Universities And Their Admission Criteria For 2025
Nigeria is home to several reputable universities known for their academic excellence, robust curricula, and research contributions. These institutions rank among the best in Africa and offer students opportunities to pursue a wide array of programs. If you’re seeking admission in 2025, it’s essential to understand the admission criteria for the top universities in the country. This article highlights the top 10 Nigerian universities and their specific admission requirements.
1. University of Ibadan (UI)
The University of Ibadan, Nigeria’s premier university, is known for its strong emphasis on research and postgraduate education.
Admission Criteria:
-
UTME Requirements: Candidates must score a minimum of 200 in the UTME.
-
O’Level Results: Five credits in relevant subjects, including Mathematics and English, obtained in not more than two sittings.
-
Post-UTME Screening: Applicants must participate in the UI Post-UTME and score above the departmental cutoff mark.
-
Direct Entry (DE): DE candidates must have a minimum of two A-Level passes or equivalent qualifications such as ND, HND, or a degree.
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
UNILAG is renowned for its focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and high-quality education.
Admission Criteria:
-
UTME Requirements: A UTME score of at least 200, though competitive courses like Law, Medicine, and Engineering require higher scores.
-
O’Level Results: Five credits, including Mathematics and English, relevant to the chosen course.
-
Post-UTME Screening: UNILAG conducts a computer-based Post-UTME test. Candidates must meet or exceed the departmental cutoff.
-
Direct Entry (DE): DE applicants need relevant A-Level qualifications or ND/HND with good grades.
3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
OAU, located in Ile-Ife, is a leader in science, technology, and arts education.
Admission Criteria:
-
UTME Requirements: Candidates must score at least 200 in the UTME.
-
O’Level Results: Five credits in relevant subjects, including Mathematics and English, in no more than two sittings.
-
Post-UTME Screening: OAU requires applicants to participate in a Post-UTME test and meet the cutoff for their desired course.
-
Direct Entry (DE): DE candidates must possess a minimum of two A-Level passes or ND/HND qualifications.
4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
ABU is one of the largest universities in Sub-Saharan Africa, offering diverse programs.
Admission Criteria:
-
UTME Requirements: Candidates need a minimum UTME score of 180.
-
O’Level Results: Five credits, including Mathematics and English, relevant to the course of study.
-
Post-UTME Screening: ABU conducts a Post-UTME screening. Candidates must meet the departmental cutoff.
-
Direct Entry (DE): DE applicants must have relevant A-Level passes, an ND, or an HND.
5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
UNN stands out for its academic excellence and contributions to national development.
Admission Criteria:
-
UTME Requirements: A UTME score of at least 180, though higher scores are required for competitive courses.
-
O’Level Results: Five credits in relevant subjects, including Mathematics and English.
-
Post-UTME Screening: UNN conducts a screening test. Meeting the departmental cutoff is mandatory.
-
Direct Entry (DE): DE candidates must present A-Level passes or equivalent qualifications.
6. Covenant University, Ota
Covenant University is a leading private university known for its emphasis on leadership and entrepreneurship.
Admission Criteria:
-
UTME Requirements: A UTME score of at least 180 is required.
-
O’Level Results: Five credits in relevant subjects, including Mathematics and English, in no more than two sittings.
-
Screening Exercise: Covenant University conducts an internal screening process, which includes an aptitude test and an oral interview.
-
Direct Entry (DE): DE applicants must possess relevant qualifications such as A-Levels, ND, or HND.
7. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
UNILORIN is celebrated for its academic stability and uninterrupted academic calendar.
Admission Criteria:
-
UTME Requirements: A UTME score of at least 180, though competitive courses may require higher scores.
-
O’Level Results: Five credits, including Mathematics and English, in no more than two sittings.
-
Post-UTME Screening: UNILORIN conducts a computer-based Post-UTME test. Candidates must meet the required cutoff.
-
Direct Entry (DE): DE applicants must have relevant A-Level passes, ND, or HND.
8. Lagos State University (LASU)
LASU is a dynamic institution known for its diverse programs and strong academic culture.
Admission Criteria:
-
UTME Requirements: A minimum UTME score of 180.
-
O’Level Results: Five credits in relevant subjects, including Mathematics and English.
-
Post-UTME Screening: LASU conducts a Post-UTME test. Candidates must meet the cutoff for their chosen course.
-
Direct Entry (DE): DE candidates need A-Level passes, ND, or HND qualifications.
9. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
FUTA is a top choice for students pursuing science and technology courses.
Admission Criteria:
-
UTME Requirements: A UTME score of at least 180.
-
O’Level Results: Five credits in relevant science subjects, including Mathematics and English.
-
Post-UTME Screening: FUTA conducts a Post-UTME test. Candidates must meet the departmental cutoff.
-
Direct Entry (DE): DE candidates require relevant A-Level passes or an ND/HND.
10. Bayero University, Kano (BUK)
BUK is one of Nigeria’s oldest universities, offering quality education in arts, sciences, and social sciences.
Admission Criteria:
-
UTME Requirements: A UTME score of at least 180.
-
O’Level Results: Five credits in relevant subjects, including Mathematics and English.
-
Post-UTME Screening: BUK conducts a screening exercise to determine candidates’ eligibility.
-
Direct Entry (DE): DE applicants need A-Level passes, ND, or HND qualifications.
Conclusion
Admission into Nigeria’s top universities is highly competitive, requiring candidates to meet stringent academic criteria. Understanding the specific requirements of each institution helps streamline the application process and boosts your chances of securing admission. To increase your chances, aim for a high UTME score, ensure your O’Level results meet the required standards, and prepare adequately for Post-UTME or screening exercises. Stay informed by regularly visiting the official websites of your preferred institutions for updates on admission guidelines and deadlines with proper preparation and determination, you can secure a spot in one of Nigeria’s prestigious universities and embark on a fulfilling academic journey. Good luck!