Introduction
Every year, thousands of Nigerian students struggle to gain admission into universities through JAMB UTME. Sadly, many are left disappointed after multiple attempts. But the good news is: you don’t have to depend only on JAMB to enter university.
The Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB) programme is a tested and trusted alternative. With JUPEB, you can secure direct entry admission into 200 level in many Nigerian universities, without writing UTME.
This guide will explain everything you need to know about JUPEB admission in Nigeria 2025/2026 in simple, easy-to-understand language. We’ll cover:
- What JUPEB is and how it works.
- Benefits of JUPEB over JAMB.
- Requirements for JUPEB admission.
- Step-by-step application process.
- Universities that accept JUPEB in Nigeria.
- Pros and cons of JUPEB.
- Summary table for quick reference.
- 10+ FAQs with detailed answers.
By the end of this article, you will be fully prepared to start your JUPEB journey and increase your chances of admission in 2025/2026.
What is JUPEB?
JUPEB stands for Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board.
It is an Advanced Level (A’Level) programme that was established in 2013 by the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
How Does JUPEB Work?
- JUPEB runs for 9–12 months.
- Students are taught three subject combinations that match their intended university course.
- At the end of the programme, students sit for the JUPEB examination.
- The results are expressed in points (just like IJMB).
- With these points, students apply through JAMB Direct Entry into 200 level in universities that accept JUPEB.
Example of JUPEB Subject Combination
- For Medicine: Biology, Chemistry, Physics.
- For Law: Government, Literature, CRS.
- For Engineering: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry.
- For Economics/Business: Economics, Mathematics, Government.
Why Choose JUPEB for Admission in 2025/2026?
JUPEB is becoming more popular every year. Let’s see why.
Advantages of JUPEB
- Direct Entry into 200 Level: You skip 100 level completely.
- No JAMB UTME Required: You don’t need to write UTME.
- Wide Acceptance: Over 80 universities in Nigeria accept JUPEB.
- Unlimited Validity: JUPEB results do not expire (unlike JAMB results which expire in one year).
- Alternative to JAMB Failure: If you’ve been struggling with UTME, JUPEB is a strong backup plan.
- Better Preparation: The programme equips you with academic experience before entering university.
Disadvantages of JUPEB
- Cost: The programme is more expensive than JAMB. Tuition and accommodation may cost ₦200,000–₦350,000.
- Stress of Relocation: You may need to move to a study center for one year.
- Not Accepted Everywhere: While many universities accept JUPEB, not all Nigerian universities do.
- Requires Hard Work: The programme is intensive and requires serious study habits.
Requirements for JUPEB Admission 2025/2026
To be eligible for JUPEB admission, you must meet certain conditions.
Academic Requirements
- At least 5 credit passes in O’Level results (WAEC, NECO, or GCE).
- Credits must include English Language and Mathematics.
- You must choose the right subject combination for your intended university course.
General Requirements
- You must be ready to commit to a 9–12 month academic programme.
- You must have funds for tuition, accommodation, and study materials.
- You must later apply for JAMB Direct Entry form.
Step-by-Step Guide to JUPEB Admission in Nigeria 2025/2026
Now let’s walk you through the exact process.
Step 1: Research and Choose a JUPEB Study Center
- JUPEB is run by affiliated universities and accredited private study centers.
- Choose a recognized center with a good track record.
- Be careful of scammers who pose as JUPEB agents online.
Step 2: Register for JUPEB Programme
- Fill the JUPEB admission form (online or at the center).
- Pay the registration and acceptance fee.
- Provide your O’Level results and passport photographs.
Step 3: Pay Tuition and Other Fees
- Tuition fees range from ₦150,000 to ₦300,000 depending on the center.
- Accommodation fees may also apply.
- Some schools allow installment payments.
Step 4: Begin Classes and Study Seriously
- Classes usually start around September/October.
- Attend lectures regularly, as this determines your exam success.
- Take note of assignments, continuous assessments, and mock exams.
Step 5: Write the JUPEB Final Examination
- After 9–12 months of lectures, you will sit for the JUPEB exam.
- Grading system is point-based:
- 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 score = 5 + 4 + 3 = 12 points.
Step 6: Purchase JAMB Direct Entry (DE) Form
- Even though JUPEB bypasses UTME, you must still register with JAMB for Direct Entry.
- Fill in your JUPEB result and select your preferred university.
Step 7: Apply to Universities that Accept JUPEB
- Choose universities that recognize JUPEB for 200 level admission.
- Some universities may conduct a short screening test or interview.
Step 8: Secure Admission into 200 Level
- Once you meet the required cut-off, you will be admitted directly into 200 level of your chosen course.
Universities that Accept JUPEB in Nigeria 2025/2026
Many Nigerian universities (federal, state, and private) accept JUPEB.
Federal Universities
- University of Lagos (UNILAG).
- University of Benin (UNIBEN).
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN).
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU).
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
- University of Abuja (UNIABUJA).
State Universities
- Lagos State University (LASU).
- Delta State University (DELSU).
- Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU).
- Ambrose Alli University (AAU).
Private Universities
- Covenant University.
- Babcock University.
- Bowen University.
- Redeemer’s University.
How Many Points Do You Need in JUPEB for Admission?
- Medicine, Law, Pharmacy, Nursing: 12–16 points.
- Engineering, Sciences: 9–12 points.
- Social Sciences/Management: 7–10 points.
- Arts and Education: 5–8 points.
JUPEB vs IJMB: Which is Better?
Both JUPEB and IJMB are A’Level programmes, but let’s compare them.
Feature | JUPEB | IJMB |
---|---|---|
Origin | Started by UNILAG in 2013 | Started by ABU Zaria in 1976 |
Duration | 9–12 months | 9–12 months |
Admission Level | Direct into 200 level | Direct into 200 level |
Acceptance | Widely accepted in the South | Widely accepted in the North |
Validity | Does not expire | Does not expire |
Cost | ₦200k–₦350k | ₦150k–₦250k |
Best For | Students in Southern Nigeria | Students in Northern Nigeria |
Tips for Success in JUPEB Admission 2025/2026
- Choose the Right Subject Combination: This is very important for your course.
- Be Serious from Day One: Don’t wait until exams to start studying.
- Avoid Distractions: Focus on lectures and tutorials.
- Set a Target: Aim for at least 12 points if applying for competitive courses.
- Pick Trusted Centers: Avoid fake JUPEB agents online.
Summary Table: Step-by-Step JUPEB Admission Guide
Step | Action | Notes |
---|---|---|
1 | Choose JUPEB Study Center | Pick accredited universities or centers |
2 | Register | Fill form, submit O’Level results |
3 | Pay Fees | Tuition, accommodation, registration |
4 | Attend Classes | Regular lectures and tests |
5 | Write Final Exam | Graded in points (A=5, B=4, etc.) |
6 | Buy JAMB DE Form | Input JUPEB details |
7 | Apply to Universities | Select JUPEB-accepting schools |
8 | Admission | Enter 200 level directly |
Conclusion
JUPEB is one of the best admission alternatives to JAMB UTME in Nigeria. With JUPEB, you can study for 9–12 months, pass the final exam, and secure direct entry admission into 200 level in many Nigerian universities.
For the 2025/2026 academic session, JUPEB remains a golden opportunity for students who are serious about their education.
If you are ready, follow the step-by-step JUPEB admission guide we explained, choose a trusted center, prepare well, and you will be on your way to becoming a university student without JAMB stress.