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Magnusbau George
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Top Frequently Asked Questions About University Admission In Nigeria
University admission in Nigeria can be a daunting process, especially for first-time applicants who must navigate through multiple steps and meet specific requirements. From registering for exams to understanding the role of institutions like JAMB, prospective students often have many questions about how to secure admission successfully. In this article, we address some of the most frequently asked questions about university admission in Nigeria.
1. What Are the Basic Requirements for Admission Into Nigerian Universities?
To gain admission into a Nigerian university, candidates must meet the following requirements:
O'Level Results: Candidates must have at least five credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, obtained from WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB in no more than two sittings.
JAMB UTME: All applicants must sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and achieve the required cutoff mark.
Post-UTME or Screening: Many universities conduct additional assessments through post-UTME exams or screening exercises.
Age Requirement: Most universities require candidates to be at least 16 years old at the time of application.
Direct Entry: For students applying through Direct Entry, additional qualifications like A-Levels, NCE, or a diploma are required.
2. What Is JAMB, and Why Is It Important?
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is the government agency responsible for conducting the UTME, which serves as a gateway for university admission in Nigeria. Without registering for and passing the UTME, candidates cannot apply for admission into most universities. JAMB also manages the Central Admission Processing System (CAPS), which ensures that admissions are transparent and merit-based.
3. What Is the JAMB Cutoff Mark?
The JAMB cutoff mark is the minimum UTME score required for admission. This mark varies based on the type of institution and the course of study:
Federal universities often have higher cutoff marks (e.g., 180-200).
State universities may have slightly lower cutoff marks (e.g., 160-180).
Polytechnics and colleges of education typically set cutoff marks around 120-150.
It is important to note that meeting the JAMB cutoff mark does not guarantee admission. Candidates must also meet their chosen university's departmental cutoff and other specific criteria.
4. What Are Post-UTME and Screening Exercises?
After JAMB, many universities require candidates to undergo a post-UTME test or a screening exercise. The process varies:
Post-UTME: A computer-based test (CBT) to further assess candidates’ knowledge.
Screening: A review of JAMB scores, O’Level results, and other qualifications.
Some institutions have replaced written post-UTME exams with online or physical document verification.
5. How Does the Admission Process Work Through JAMB CAPS?
JAMB’s Central Admission Processing System (CAPS) is an online platform used to manage university admissions. It ensures transparency by matching candidates to institutions based on their preferences, qualifications, and available spaces. Candidates can monitor their admission status on CAPS and either accept or reject admission offers.
6. What Should I Do If I Don’t Meet the Cutoff Mark?
If you don’t meet the cutoff mark for your chosen course or university, you have several options:
Apply to a polytechnic or college of education with lower cutoff marks.
Opt for a related course with lower requirements and later apply for a change of course.
Consider remedial or pre-degree programs offered by some universities to improve your chances.
Conclusion
Securing admission into a Nigerian university involves understanding and meeting specific requirements, from passing JAMB UTME to participating in post-UTME or screening exercises. By addressing these frequently asked questions, prospective students can better navigate the admission process and increase their chances of success.
