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Introduction

Getting admission into a Nigerian university is one of the biggest dreams for many students. However, not everyone likes the stress of writing JAMB UTME over and over again. For this reason, alternative admission pathways like IJMB (Interim Joint Matriculation Board) have become very popular.

With IJMB, you can gain direct entry admission into 200 level of many Nigerian universities without writing JAMB. Sounds interesting, right?

In this detailed guide, we will explain everything you need to know about how to secure admission into Nigerian university with IJMB in the 2025/2026 academic session.

We will cover:

• What IJMB is and how it works.
• Why IJMB is a good option for admission seekers.
• Requirements for using IJMB to gain admission.
• Step-by-step process on how to apply.
• Universities that accept IJMB in Nigeria.
• Advantages and disadvantages of IJMB.
• A summary comparison table.
• 10+ frequently asked questions with clear answers.

By the end of this article, you will know whether IJMB is the right choice for you and how to use it to your advantage.

What is IJMB in Nigeria?

IJMB stands for Interim Joint Matriculation Board. It is an advanced level programme that was established by Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria in 1976. The aim was to help students gain admission into Nigerian universities without JAMB UTME.

How Does IJMB Work?

• IJMB is a 9–12 month programme.
• Students are taught three subject combinations related to their chosen university course (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Physics for Medicine).
• After the programme, you write the IJMB final examination.
• Your score is expressed in points (from 1 to 16 or more).
• These points can then be used to apply for Direct Entry admission into 200 level in many universities across Nigeria.

For example:

• If you want to study Law, your subject combination may be Literature, Government, and CRS.
• If you want Medicine, your combination may be Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

Why Choose IJMB for University Admission?

Before deciding whether IJMB is right for you, let’s look at its key benefits.

Advantages of IJMB

1. No UTME Stress: With IJMB, you don’t need to sit for JAMB UTME.
2. Direct Entry into 200 Level: You skip 100 level and go straight to second year.
3. Widely Accepted: Over 70 Nigerian universities accept IJMB.
4. Reusable Result: Your IJMB result never expires (unlike JAMB which is valid for only 1 year).
5. Alternative for Repeated JAMB Failure: Students who keep failing JAMB can switch to IJMB.

Disadvantages of IJMB

1. Tuition Fees: IJMB programmes can be a bit expensive compared to writing JAMB.
2. Limited to Certain Universities: Not all universities accept IJMB.
3. Academic Pressure: It is an intensive 9-month programme that requires focus.
4. Accommodation/Relocation: Students may have to relocate to study centers.

Requirements for Admission into Nigerian Universities with IJMB

To gain admission using IJMB in 2025/2026, you need to meet certain requirements.

Academic Requirements

• O’Level Results: At least 5 credit passes in WAEC, NECO, or GCE (must include English Language and Mathematics).
• Subject Combination: Choose the right IJMB subjects that match your desired university course.
• Minimum Points: Most universities require at least 5 points. Highly competitive courses like Medicine, Law, and Engineering may require 10–12 points or more.

Other Requirements

1. You must purchase the JAMB Direct Entry form.
2. You must select the university and course of your choice during JAMB DE registration.
3. Some universities conduct additional post-DE screening.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Secure Admission with IJMB

Now, let’s break down the process into simple steps.

Step 1: Register for IJMB Programme

• Choose a trusted IJMB study center or university that runs IJMB.
• Fill out the registration form and pay the acceptance fee.
• Pay tuition (can be in installments in some centers).

Step 2: Attend Lectures and Prepare Well

• IJMB is an intensive programme; attending lectures regularly is very important.
• Take your subjects seriously since your final points will determine admission chances.

Step 3: Write the IJMB Final Examination

• After 9–12 months, you will sit for the official IJMB exam.
• The grading system is similar to A-level: A=5 points, B=4 points, C=3 points, D=2 points, E=1 point.

Example:

• If you get A in Chemistry, B in Biology, and C in Physics, your points = 5+4+3 = 12 points.

Step 4: Obtain JAMB Direct Entry Form

• Even though you are not writing UTME, you must buy the JAMB Direct Entry (DE) form.
• Fill in your IJMB details and choose your preferred university.

Step 5: Apply to Universities that Accept IJMB

• Select universities that officially recognize IJMB.
• Some schools may require screening or aptitude test.

Step 6: Secure Admission

• If you meet the cut-off mark and screening requirements, you will be admitted directly into 200 level.

Best Universities in Nigeria that Accept IJMB in 2025/2026

Not all universities accept IJMB, but the majority of federal, state, and private universities do. Below are some of the best.

Federal Universities

• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria – the founding university of IJMB.
• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) – popular choice for IJMB candidates.
• University of Lagos (UNILAG) – accepts JUPEB and IJMB.
• University of Benin (UNIBEN).
• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU).

State Universities

• Lagos State University (LASU).
• Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU).
• Ambrose Alli University (AAU).
• Delta State University (DELSU).

Private Universities

• Covenant University.
• Babcock University.
• Bowen University.
• Redeemer’s University.

How Many Points Do You Need in IJMB for Admission?

The number of points you need depends on the course:

• Medicine, Law, Pharmacy, Nursing: 12–16 points.
• Engineering, Sciences: 9–12 points.
• Social Sciences/Management: 7–10 points.
• Arts and Education: 5–8 points.

Comparison: IJMB vs JAMB UTME

Tips for Success with IJMB Admission

1. Choose the Right Subject Combination: Match it with your desired university course.
2. Attend Lectures Regularly: Don’t joke with IJMB classes.
3. Target High Points: Especially if applying for competitive courses.
4. Research Universities: Apply to schools that accept IJMB openly.
5. Apply Early: Don’t wait until deadlines.
6. Prepare for Screening: Some universities may still test you.

Summary Table: How to Secure Admission into Nigerian University with IJMB

Conclusion

Securing admission into a Nigerian university with IJMB is one of the best alternatives to JAMB UTME. With the right preparation, subject combination, and high points, you can gain direct entry into 200 level in many federal, state, and private universities.

For 2025/2026, IJMB remains a golden opportunity for students who want to bypass UTME stress and secure admission faster.

So, if you are serious about your education, consider IJMB today. Prepare well, aim high, and your dream university admission will become a reality.