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Introduction

Every year, thousands of Nigerian students dream of gaining admission into the university. For many, the traditional route is through JAMB’s Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). However, not everyone wants to pass through that stressful process. That is why Direct Entry (DE) admission is a great option for candidates who already have a diploma, NCE, IJMB, JUPEB, or other qualifications.

The big question for 2025/2026 is this: Which are the best universities in Nigeria for direct entry admission?

In this article, we will explain everything you need to know. You will discover:

• What direct entry admission means.
• Why it is different from JAMB UTME admission.
• Requirements for applying through direct entry.
• The best universities in Nigeria for direct entry admission 2025/2026.
• A comparison table of top schools.
• FAQs that answer all your questions.

Let’s get started!

What is Direct Entry Admission in Nigeria?

Direct Entry admission is a system that allows candidates to gain admission into Nigerian universities without writing UTME. Instead of starting from year one, candidates begin from 200 level (second year) or sometimes 300 level, depending on the school and course.

Who is Direct Entry for?

Direct entry admission is mainly for:

1. Students with a National Diploma (ND) from a polytechnic.
2. Students with a Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE).
3. Students with Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB) results.
4. Students with Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB) results.
5. Degree holders or those with professional qualifications.

It is an excellent pathway for students who already have some academic background but want to continue their studies in the university.

Why Choose Direct Entry Admission Over UTME?

Many students wonder whether direct entry is better than JAMB UTME. Let’s break it down in simple terms.

Advantages of Direct Entry Admission

• Skip 100 Level: You go straight to 200 level, saving one year.
• Less Stressful: You don’t need to prepare for UTME.
• Recognition of Previous Studies: Your ND, NCE, or JUPEB is useful.
• Better Focus: You join classmates who already know the basics.

Disadvantages of Direct Entry Admission

• Competitive: Spaces are limited in many universities.
• Strict Requirements: Not all schools accept every qualification.
• Limited Courses: Some professional courses may not admit direct entry students easily.

Still, for 2025/2026 admission, direct entry remains one of the smartest choices for students with qualifications beyond SSCE.

Requirements for Direct Entry Admission in Nigerian Universities

To gain admission into any of the best universities in Nigeria for direct entry admission 2025/2026, you must meet certain requirements.

General Requirements

1. O’Level Results: At least five credits in WAEC, NECO, or GCE (including English and Mathematics).
2. Direct Entry Qualification: Either ND, NCE, IJMB, JUPEB, or equivalent.
3. JAMB Direct Entry Form: You must still buy the JAMB Direct Entry form.
4. Post-UTME/Screening: Some universities conduct direct entry screening or exams.
5. Transcript: For ND or NCE holders, transcripts may be required.

Grade Requirements

• ND holders: Minimum of Lower Credit.
• NCE holders: At least Merit Pass.
• JUPEB/IJMB candidates: Usually require 5–9 points depending on the course.
• First Degree holders: Can also apply.

Best Universities in Nigeria for Direct Entry Admission 2025/2026

Let us now look at the top Nigerian universities that are very friendly to direct entry students. We will group them into federal universities, state universities, and private universities.

1. University of Lagos (UNILAG)

• Location: Lagos State
• Why UNILAG is a Top Choice:
  • Accepts JUPEB, IJMB, and ND/NCE.
  • Has one of the largest JUPEB programs in Nigeria.
  • Very popular among direct entry candidates.
• Popular Courses for DE Students: Law, Business Administration, Engineering, Medicine, and Social Sciences.

2. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

• Location: Kwara State
• Highlights:
  • Known for its quick academic calendar.
  • Accepts ND, NCE, IJMB, and JUPEB.
  • Many direct entry slots compared to other schools.
• Tip: UNILORIN is highly competitive, so apply early.

3. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria)

• Location: Kaduna State
• Why ABU is Recommended:
  • One of the most DE-friendly universities in the North.
  • Accepts IJMB more than any other school (since IJMB originated in ABU).
  • Wide range of professional and science courses.

4. University of Benin (UNIBEN)

• Location: Edo State
• Features:
  • Accepts JUPEB (they run their own JUPEB program).
  • Very structured DE admission process.
  • Strong in Law, Engineering, Medicine, and Education.

5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

• Location: Enugu State
• Why UNN is a Great Option:
  • Long-standing tradition of admitting DE candidates.
  • Strong postgraduate system, which means DE students blend well.
  • Popular for Medical Sciences, Arts, and Law.

6. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

• Location: Osun State
• Reasons OAU is Among the Best:
  • Runs JUPEB center, making DE admission easier.
  • Has competitive but fair DE screening.
  • Good for Arts, Sciences, and Social Sciences.

7. University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)

• Location: Federal Capital Territory
• Benefits:
  • Central location, easy for students from different regions.
  • Accepts IJMB, JUPEB, ND, and NCE.
  • Flexible programs and admission slots.

8. Lagos State University (LASU)

• Location: Lagos State
• Why LASU is a DE-friendly University:
  • Accepts ND, NCE, JUPEB, and IJMB.
  • Highly recommended for Law, Management, and Social Sciences.
  • Very popular among Lagos residents.

9. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)

• Location: Ogun State
• Features:
  • Accepts direct entry applicants widely.
  • Less competitive compared to UNILAG or OAU.
  • Affordable tuition compared to private universities.

10. Covenant University (Private)

• Location: Ota, Ogun State
• Why Covenant Stands Out:
  • Top private university in Nigeria.
  • Accepts JUPEB and other DE qualifications.
  • High-quality education and facilities.
• Note: Tuition fees are higher, but the value is great.

11. Babcock University (Private)

• Location: Ogun State
• Benefits:
  • Accepts JUPEB and ND/NCE holders.
  • Flexible academic programs.
  • Strong in Medicine, Law, and Business.

12. Bowen University (Private)

• Location: Osun State
• Why Bowen is Great for DE Admission:
  • Open to direct entry students.
  • Christian-based private institution.
  • Popular for Nursing, Law, and Social Sciences.

Comparison Table of Best Universities for Direct Entry Admission 2025/2026

Tips for Gaining Direct Entry Admission in 2025/2026

1. Apply Early: Universities often close DE applications quickly.
2. Choose Schools That Accept Your Qualification: Some prefer JUPEB, others ND.
3. Prepare for Screening: Even if no exam, you must do well in the interview/screening.
4. Get Your Transcript Ready: Especially if you finished from a polytechnic or NCE.
5. Have Backup Options: Apply to more than one university if possible.

Conclusion

Direct entry admission is one of the smartest ways to gain admission into Nigerian universities without sitting for UTME. For 2025/2026, the best universities in Nigeria for direct entry admission include UNILAG, UNILORIN, ABU, UNIBEN, UNN, OAU, UNIABUJA, LASU, OOU, and top private schools like Covenant, Babcock, and Bowen.

If you have ND, NCE, JUPEB, IJMB, or any other qualification, now is the best time to prepare. Apply early, choose the right school, and get all your documents ready. With proper planning, your dream of joining the university at 200 level will become a reality.