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Introduction

Not every student in Nigeria can follow the regular full-time university program. Many people already working, running businesses, or managing families want to study without quitting their jobs. For such students, part-time admission in Nigerian universities is the perfect solution.

Part-time education allows you to study at your own pace, usually in the evenings, weekends, or through flexible schedules. In fact, some of the best universities in Nigeria have well-structured part-time degree programs that give you the same certificate as full-time students.

In this detailed guide, you will learn everything about:

• What part-time admission in Nigeria means
• Universities in Nigeria that offer part-time admission
• Step-by-step process of how to apply for part-time admission
• Admission requirements and eligibility
• Differences between part-time and full-time programs
• Advantages and disadvantages of part-time studies
• A summary table of top universities for part-time programs
• 10+ FAQs clearly answered

What is Part-Time Admission in Nigerian Universities?

Part-time admission is a type of university admission in which students are allowed to combine education with work or personal commitments. Unlike full-time students who attend lectures from Monday to Friday, part-time students often attend lectures:

• In the evenings
• On weekends (Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays)
• Or during specially arranged schedules

The programs run by part-time admission include:

1. Part-Time Degree Programs – Offered by universities for working-class students.
2. Distance Learning / Online Programs – Fully or partly online courses.
3. Sandwich Programs – Often for teachers, usually during long holidays.

The certificates obtained through part-time study are recognized by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and can be used for jobs, promotions, or further studies.

Why Do Nigerian Students Choose Part-Time Admission?

Many students go for part-time admission for the following reasons:

• Flexibility: You can study and still work.
• No Age Limit: Unlike JAMB UTME, most part-time programs do not have strict age restrictions.
• No JAMB UTME Required in Most Cases: You usually don’t need to write JAMB UTME for part-time admission. Instead, universities conduct their own entrance exams or screenings.
• Extra Income: Students can earn while learning.
• Alternative Pathway: For those who missed admission through JAMB, part-time admission offers another chance.

Universities in Nigeria That Offer Part-Time Admission

Many federal, state, and private universities run part-time degree programs. Some of the popular ones include:

Federal Universities Offering Part-Time Programs

1. University of Lagos (UNILAG) – School of Part-Time Studies (Distance Learning Institute).
2. University of Benin (UNIBEN) – Part-Time Programmes.
3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) – Centre for Distance Learning.
4. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) – Centre for Continuing Education.
5. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria) – Distance Learning Centre.
6. University of Ibadan (UI) – Distance Learning Centre.
7. Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) – Part-Time Programs.

State Universities Offering Part-Time Programs

1. Lagos State University (LASU) – Part-Time Studies.
2. Rivers State University (RSU).
3. Delta State University (DELSU).
4. Osun State University (UNIOSUN).
5. Ekiti State University (EKSU).
6. Abia State University (ABSU).
7. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU).

Private Universities Offering Flexible Learning

1. Babcock University – Distance Learning.
2. Covenant University – Executive Programs (special).
3. Lead City University, Ibadan.
4. Caleb University, Lagos.
5. Madonna University.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for Part-Time Admission in Nigerian Universities

If you want to study part-time, follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Choose a University That Offers Part-Time Admission

Not all universities in Nigeria run part-time programs. Check the official websites of schools that do.

Step 2: Select Your Desired Course

Each university has a list of courses available for part-time study. For example:

• UNILAG part-time offers Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, etc.
• LASU part-time offers Political Science, Industrial Relations, History, etc.

Step 3: Check Admission Requirements

General requirements include:

• At least 5 O’Level credits in WAEC/NECO/NABTEB (including English and Mathematics).
• Some universities allow two sittings for O’Level.
• Higher National Diploma (HND) or OND holders may apply for direct entry into higher levels.

Step 4: Buy the Application Form

Most universities sell part-time admission forms online. Prices usually range from ₦10,000 to ₦25,000. Payments are made via university portals.

Step 5: Fill the Application Form Online

Provide:

• Personal information (name, age, address).
• O’Level or A’Level results.
• Work experience (if required).

Step 6: Submit Documents

Upload scanned copies of your credentials such as O’Level, birth certificate, and identification.

Step 7: Write the University’s Entrance Exam (if required)

Some universities (like UNILAG) conduct entrance exams for part-time candidates. Others only do screening.

Step 8: Check Admission List

Successful candidates are published on the university website or notice board.

Step 9: Pay Acceptance and School Fees

Once admitted, you will pay acceptance fees and school fees to secure your place.

Step 10: Begin Lectures

Lectures usually start in the evenings or weekends, depending on the school’s arrangement.

Admission Requirements for Part-Time Programs in Nigeria

1. O’Level Requirement: Minimum of 5 credits in relevant subjects including English and Mathematics.
2. Direct Entry Candidates: ND, HND, NCE, or professional certificates may qualify you for admission into 200 or 300 level.
3. No JAMB UTME Required: Most schools do not require UTME for part-time admission.
4. Work Experience Advantage: Some schools consider professional work experience.

Advantages of Part-Time Admission in Nigeria

1. You can work and study at the same time.
2. Age is not a barrier.
3. No need to write JAMB in most cases.
4. Flexible lecture schedules (evenings or weekends).
5. Same certificate as full-time students.

Disadvantages of Part-Time Admission

1. Takes longer to graduate (usually 5–6 years instead of 4).
2. School fees may be higher than regular programs.
3. Limited course options compared to full-time.
4. Some employers may prefer full-time graduates.

Comparison: Part-Time vs Full-Time Admission

Summary Table of Top Universities for Part-Time Admission

Conclusion

Part-time admission in Nigerian universities is an excellent option for students who want to balance work, family, and education. Unlike full-time admission that requires JAMB UTME and strict schedules, part-time programs are more flexible and accessible.

To apply successfully, you must:

• Choose the right university.
• Meet the O’Level or Direct Entry requirements.
• Purchase and fill the application form online.
• Attend the school’s screening or entrance exam.
• Pay your acceptance and school fees.

By following the step-by-step guide in this article, you can secure part-time admission into Nigerian universities for the 2025/2026 academic session and start your academic journey without disrupting your daily life.