Best Private Universities That Offer Admission Without JAMB in Nigeria (2025/2026)

What Does “Admission Without JAMB” Mean?

In Nigeria, JAMB UTME is the usual entry exam for university admission. However, many private universities offer admission based on alternative criteria, such as:

O‑Level results
University foundation or pre-degree programs
Internal admission screenings or interviews

This pathway bypasses JAMB UTME entirely and grants entry based on performance in the university’s own requirements.

. Why Choose Private Universities That Bypass JAMB?

Key Advantages:

You don’t need JAMB—ideal if you missed it or didn’t perform well.
Universities like Babcock, Madonna, Bowen, Caleb, and others offer direct admission through foundation or screening.
Many require only five O’Level credits, no UTME cut-off.
Great flexibility and fast-track entry into 100 or 200 level.

. How to Gain Admission Without JAMB – Step-by-Step

Check O‑Level Requirements – Typically 5 credits including English/Mathematics.
Choose a University and Program – Confirm they accept alternative entry.
Apply via University Portal – Complete the admission form and pay screening fees.
Attend Screening or Interview – Many universities hold internal checks.
Submit Documents – O’Level results and related credentials.
Accept Admission – Complete registration if offered.
Start Classes – You commence at 100 or 200 level depending on foundation or direct entry.

. Top Private Universities Accepting Admission Without JAMB for 2025/2026

Here are leading private institutions where JAMB isn’t required:

Babcock University

Admits based on O’Level and screening; foundation programs lead to direct entry. Estimated fee: ₦340,000.

Madonna University

Accepts direct entry via pre‑degree or screening; no JAMB needed. Fee range: ₦229,000–₦1.5M.

Igbinedion University

Uses a foundation year for admission without JAMB. Fee: ~₦500k–₦800k.

Bowen University

Offers JUPEB and foundation programs. Fee: ₦84k–₦1.18M.

Pan‑Atlantic University

Foundation-based admission without JAMB. Fee: ₦2.3M–₦2.8M.

Caleb University

Accepts ND/HND for direct entry—no JAMB. Fee: ₦969k–₦2.4M.

Redeemer’s University

Offers pre‑degree and direct application without JAMB. Fee: ₦600k–₦1.45M.

Al‑Hikmah University

University-based direct admission without JAMB. Fee: ₦176,550.

Caritas University

Accepts O’Level and internal screening; does not require JAMB. Fee range: ₦90k–₦147k.

. Comparison with Other Institutions

University Type	JAMB Required?	Entry Route
Private Univ (e.g., Babcock, Madonna)	No	Foundation/pre-degree or internal screening
National Open Univ (NOUN)	No	O’Level + application, distance learning
FED/STATE WITH JUPEB/IJMB	No	A-Level + Direct Entry
Diploma → DE	No	ND/HND + Direct Entry

. Pros and Cons of Private Universities Without JAMB

Pros:

Avoid UTME stress
Swift entry via foundation/DE
Often flexible admissions
Strong academic environment and facilities

Cons:

Higher tuition compared to public schools
Might not qualify for NYSC
Foundation typically only valid at that school
Screening can be competitive

. Real Student Viewpoint (Reddit Highlight)

From Reddit:

“I don’t like when people say only ‘not smart’ students go to private unis because they skip JAMB. That’s unfair.”
Many private universities provide quality and should not be judged simply by admission route.

. Summary Table of Key Universities

University	Entry Route	Estimated Fee Range
Babcock University	Foundation + screening	₦340,000
Madonna University	Pre-degree + screening	₦229,000 – ₦1.5M
Igbinedion University	Foundation	₦500,000 – ₦800,000
Bowen University	JUPEB/Foundation	₦84,000 – ₦1.18M
Pan‑Atlantic University	Foundation	₦2.3M – ₦2.8M
Caleb University	ND/HND Direct Entry	₦969k – ₦2.4M
Redeemer’s University	Screening	₦600k – ₦1.45M
Ajayi Crowther University	Foundation / screening	₦162k – ₦782k
Al‑Hikmah University	Internal admission	₦176,550
Caritas University	Screening	₦90k – ₦147k

. Frequently Asked Questions

Do these universities accept O’Level only?
Yes—foundation + screening is common.
Is JAMB format still needed later?
No—entry is solely via internal university process.
Are these universities accredited?
Yes—they’re licensed by NUC.
Can I transfer to a public university later?
Possible but depends on policies.
Are degrees from these schools recognized for NYSC?
Often yes—but confirm with the institution.
Are fees high?
Yes—private universities typically cost more.
Which path is fastest?
Foundation + screening gives swift entry without UTME.
Can I apply with awaiting results?
Usually yes—foundation programs accept awaiting.
Does Babcock require foundation only?
They accept O’Level and screening; foundation is an option.
Which is best for low-cost route?
Bowen and Caritas offer lower fee averages.
Are part-time options available?
Some private institutions do offer part-time modes—check campus details.

. Conclusion

Admission without JAMB is not only possible, but a smart, legal, and accessible route—especially for students seeking fast, structured entry and strong academic environments in private universities. Your options include Babcock, Madonna, Bowen, Caleb, Redeemer’s, and more.