What Is IJMB?
Definition of IJMB A’Level Programme
IJMB stands for Interim Joint Matriculation Board. It is an A’Level or advanced level programme. Students who finish IJMB can use the result to enter many Nigerian universities either into 100 level (direct from secondary school route) or 200 level (skipping 100 level) depending on the university and the required grade points.
How IJMB Differs from UTME / JAMB Route
| Feature | UTME / JAMB Route | IJMB Route |
|---|---|---|
| When it is taken | After secondary school; UTME test as required by JAMB | After secondary school, doing A’Level subjects through IJMB centre |
| Level of admission | Usually 100 Level (for UTME) | Can be 100 Level or 200 Level depending on the university and IJMB result |
| Subject focus | UTME subjects required by course | More in‑depth A’Level subjects; more advanced subject study |
| Usefulness | Most common route for many students | Useful as backup, for skipping a level, or when UTME score is not high enough |
Grade / Point System in IJMB (for Law and Other Competitive Courses)
Universities use grade points from IJMB to decide whether to admit a candidate. Law is a competitive course often requiring higher grade points (compared with less competitive courses). The exact point needed depends on:
- The university
- The demand for Law there
- The performance of the batch
- Other admission policies
For example, some universities require 8‑10 IJMB grade points or more for Law, whereas less competitive courses may accept lower points (5‑7 etc.).
How Direct Entry with IJMB Works for Law Admission
Step‑By‑Step Process to Use IJMB for Law Admission
- Enroll in IJMB A’Level Programme
Choose an IJMB centre recognised by a university. Study the required A’Level subjects for Law, which often include English, Government, Literature, etc. - Write IJMB Examinations and Obtain Result
After the course, sit for the examinations and get your IJMB grade points. - Check Universities Accepting IJMB for Law
Not all universities accept IJMB result for Law, or accept it into 200L. You must check the list each year, because universities sometimes change policy. - Check Grade Points Required for Law
Find out how many IJMB points the university asks for Law (it could be high — 8, 10 or more). - Apply via Direct Entry (DE) / IJMB Option
When applying for admissions, fill the direct entry form (if required) and submit your IJMB result along with other required documents (O’Level, birth certificate, etc.). Some universities may require UTME too or some screening. - Meet Other Requirements
- O’Level credits (English, etc.)
- UTME subject combinations if required
- Possibly Post‑IJMB screening or interview
- Check Admission Status & Matriculate
After application, watch for the admission list, accept the offer, and complete university registration and matriculation.
Important Subject Combinations for Law Admission via IJMB
To study Law, some of the needed subjects (in O’Level and A’Level/IJMB) usually are:
- English Language
- Literature in English (optional in some schools but helpful)
- Government / Political Science
- History (in many cases)
- Possibly a social science subject (Economics, CRS, etc.)
Make sure the subjects you take in IJMB are accepted by the university you pick for Law.
Universities That Accept IJMB for Law Admission (2025/2026)
Here is a list of Nigerian universities that are known to accept IJMB result for direct entry or 200‑level admission. Then more details about which ones accept Law with IJMB, and particular conditions.
Note: Some universities accept IJMB generally but do not accept IJMB for Law or accept only into 100 level for Law. Always check the current university admissions brochure or DE/JAMB policy.
Federal Universities Known to Accept IJMB
These federal universities are reported to accept IJMB results. Some accept into 200L, others may accept into 100L for certain courses.
| University | Location | IJMB Acceptance Status for Law* | Typical IJMB Grade Points Required for Law |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria | Kaduna State, North | Yes — ABU is known to accept IJMB for direct entry/law, though grade point often high. (portal.ijmbweb.com.ng) | ~ 10 points or more (Law and other competitive courses) (alevelsadmissions.com) |
| Bayero University, Kano (BUK) | Kano State, North | Yes — BUK accepts IJMB for many courses including Law under certain grade point conditions. (KINDAWAZ ACADEMY) | ~ 10+ points for Law in many reports. (alevelsadmissions.com) |
| University of Jos (UNIJOS) | Plateau State | Yes — UNIJOS accepts IJMB for many courses, including Law under direct entry or 200L, if you have required points. (KINDAWAZ ACADEMY) | Usually more than for less competitive courses; often ~ 8‑10 IJMB points or higher. (portal.ijmbweb.com.ng) |
| Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka | Anambra State | Yes — accepts IJMB for DE / some courses. Law likely among competitive ones. (KINDAWAZ ACADEMY) | Higher point requirement, because Law is competitive. (KINDAWAZ ACADEMY) |
Universities That Do Not Accept IJMB for Law Admission
It is just as important to know which do not accept IJMB for Law admission. Some universities accept IJMB for other courses or under limited conditions, but not for Law or only via 100L.
| University | Location | Status – Does Not Accept IJMB for Law / Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| University of Calabar (UNICAL) | Cross River State | Reported not to accept IJMB for Law (and some other competitive courses) for direct entry into 200L. (KINDAWAZ ACADEMY) |
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | Lagos State | Does not accept IJMB for admission into 200L for many courses including Law, according to several reports. |
| Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile‑Ife | Osun State | Does not accept IJMB for Law or direct entry into 200L (many sources say) |
| University of Ibadan (UI) | Oyo State | Does not accept IJMB into 200L for Law; may accept for 100L in limited cases. |
State & Private Universities That Accept IJMB for Law
Often state and private universities are more flexible. Some accept IJMB into 200L Law, others into 100L, depending on grade points. Here are some:
| University | Type (State / Private) | IJMB Acceptance Status for Law* | Grade Point / Requirements (approx) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu | State | Accepts IJMB, sometimes for Law under special direct entry admissions. (portal.ijmbweb.com.ng) | Points likely high; Law being competitive in state universities may still need 8‑10 points or more. |
| Ebonyi State University (EBSU), Abakaliki | State | Accepts IJMB generally; Law acceptance depends on policy. If it accepts, candidate needs to meet required grade points. (ijmb.com.ng) | |
| Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado‑Ekiti | State | Accepts IJMB; but some reports say only part‑time or limited/full‑time with conditions. Law acceptance may require higher points. (portal.ijmbweb.com.ng) | |
| Igbinedion University, Okada (Private) | Private | Accepts IJMB for many courses; likely accepts Law under direct entry depending on grade points. (My Alevel Program) | |
| University of Benin (UNIBEN) | Federal but sometimes behaves like state/private in flexibility | Reported to accept IJMB for Law (but confirmation always needed) with high IJMB points required. (portal.ijmbweb.com.ng) |
* “Law acceptance status” means: whether sources indicate that the university allows IJMB candidates into Law (preferably into 200L / Direct Entry), or at least considers IJMB for Law. Policies may change, so always verify latest admissions brochure.
How Many IJMB Points Are Needed for Law Admission in These Universities
Here are approximate or reported IJMB grade point requirements in some universities for Law (or competitive courses):
| University | Reported IJMB Point Requirement for Law / Competitive Courses |
|---|---|
| ABU Zaria | ~ 10 points or more for Law and other major courses. (portal.ijmbweb.com.ng) |
| BUK Kano | ~ 10+ points or sometimes higher for Law. (portal.ijmbweb.com.ng) |
| UNIJOS | ~ 8‑10 points for many competitive courses including Law. (portal.ijmbweb.com.ng) |
| UNIZIK (Awka) | Not always clearly published, but likely similar to above if Law is accepted. (ijmb.com.ng) |
| ABSU | Sometimes “special consideration” but requiring high points for Law. (portal.ijmbweb.com.ng) |
Pros and Cons: Using IJMB to Gain Admission into Law
Pros (Advantages)
- Allows Direct Entry / 200L Entry: If you score enough IJMB points, you may skip the 100 Level, saving time.
- Backup Option: If your UTME / JAMB score is not high enough for your preferred university’s cut‑off for Law, IJMB can be another path.
- A’Level Depth: IJMB gives more advanced content in subjects, which can help with Law studies.
- Flexibility: Some universities accept lower points or are more forgiving via this route than UTME alone.
- More Time to Prepare: The IJMB programme gives more space to understand law‑related subject content better.
Cons (Disadvantages / Challenges)
- Not Universal Acceptance for Law: Some top universities do not accept IJMB for Law or only accept partial. So there’s risk.
- Higher Points Required for Law: Because Law is competitive, you may need very high IJMB points, which can be hard.
- Extra Cost & Time: Doing IJMB takes time and may incur costs (fees, tuition, centre fees).
- Possible Limited Reputation: Some employers or Law School administrations may consider standard UTME / JAMB route more straightforward. But this varies.
- Policy Changes: Universities may change their IJMB acceptance policies, so what works one year may not the next.
Comparison: IJMB vs Other Admission Routes for Law
Here’s how IJMB stacks up against other pathways like JAMB UTME, JUPEB, or diploma/transfer.
| Feature | IJMB Route | UTME / JAMB Only | JUPEB (Another A’Level) / Other A’Level Routes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skip 100 Level | Possible (200L) | Usually start at 100L | Also possible depending on university |
| Competitive Subject Depth | More in‑depth in A’Level subjects | UTME more general, simpler form | Similar to IJMB, sometimes more accepted depending on university |
| Acceptance Variability | Some universities accept, many don’t for Law | Almost universally accepted | Varies, similar to IJMB |
| Cost and Time | Extra programme; extra cost; extra time | Only UTME cost; less time beyond exam prep | JUPEB also needs time; cost may be similar or higher |
| Reputation / Recognition | Good where accepted; more advanced subject base | Very recognized route | Recognized; depends on university reputation |
| Risk (that university rejects IJMB for Law) | Higher risk if university doesn’t accept | Lower risk route | Similar risks depending on institution’s policy |
How to Find Out If a University Will Accept IJMB for Law in 2025/2026
Because policies change, here are how to check:
- University Direct Entry / Admission Brochure
Universities publish brochures each admissions season. Check their DE / Direct Entry section. It will say whether they accept IJMB for Law and what grade points are required. - University’s Official Website / Registrar / Admission Office
Look up the department of Law, or ask the admissions office via email or phone. - IJMB Coordination Centres / Official IJMB website
They often publish lists of universities that accept IJMB, and sometimes grade point requirements. (ijmb.com.ng) - Past Admission Data / News Articles
News, student forums, education blogs may have recent students’ experiences. But cross‑check with official data because those may be outdated. - Contacting Students / Alumni
Someone who used IJMB for Law in a certain university recently can tell you whether it worked.
Real‑Life Examples / Scenarios
Here are some imaginary yet realistic stories to show how students use IJMB to secure Law admission.
Example 1 – Amina’s Scenario
- Amina finished secondary school, then did IJMB programme in an accredited centre. She took subjects: English, Government, Literature, History.
- She scored 10 IJMB points which is a good score for competitive courses.
- She wants to study Law. She checks ABU Zaria and BUK Kano; she confirms both accept IJMB for Law with ~10 points. ABU’s requirement is ~10, BUK is similar.
- She applies for direct entry / IJMB route at ABU. She submits her O’Level result and IJMB certificate. She meets subject requirements.
- She gets admitted (200L) because she met all requirements.
Example 2 – Chima’s Scenario
- Chima’s UTME / JAMB score is just below cut‑off for his first choice Law faculty via UTME. He decides to enroll in IJMB while waiting.
- During IJMB, he studies hard, scores 8 points. He applies to a state university that accepts IJMB for Law with ~8 points (e.g. some state university).
- He gets admitted into Law through IJMB. He skipped UTME competition for that faculty this year.
Universities That May Not Accept IJMB for Law or Have Restrictions
Be cautious: some universities accept IJMB generally but not for Law, or have special restrictions. Examples:
- University of Calabar (UNICAL) reportedly does not accept IJMB for Law. (KINDAWAZ ACADEMY)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG) does not accept IJMB for 200L for many courses including Law.
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) also has limitations: does not accept IJMB for Law in many reports. (My Alevel Program)
- University of Ibadan (UI) appears not to accept IJMB for Law (200L) generally.
These restrictions mean if you are considering those universities, relying on IJMB for Law may be risky.
Tips to Improve Your Chance of Getting Law Admission via IJMB
Here are practical tips to increase your odds:
- Aim High on IJMB Points
Since Law is competitive, target higher points (e.g. 10+ if possible) rather than minimum. - Meet Subject Requirements Exactly
Make sure your O’Level & IJMB subjects match requirements: English, Government, etc. Don’t miss critical subjects. - Choose Universities That Accept IJMB for Law
Use lists and verify via official documents. Don’t assume acceptance. - Backup Options
Always have alternative universities or courses: maybe some that accept IJMB but less competitive, or UTME route. - Prepare for Screening / Interview if Needed
Some universities require screenings or interviews for direct entry or Law. Be ready with good presentation skills. - Keep Your Documents Ready
IJMB result, O’Level waec/neco, birth certificate etc. Make sure everything is properly authenticated. - Monitor Admission Brochures & News
Admission policies (especially about IJMB) can change yearly. Keep updated with university announcements and IJMB programme updates.
Summary Table Before Conclusion
Here is a quick summary: which universities accept IJMB for Law, what you need roughly, and caution points.
| University | Accepts IJMB for Law (DE / 200L) | Approx IJMB Points Needed for Law | Key Points / Cautions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria | Yes | ~ 10+ points | Competitive; ensure all subject requirements |
| Bayero University (BUK), Kano | Yes | ~ 10+ points | High grade point; good IJMB centre; ensure Law acceptance confirmed |
| University of Jos (UNIJOS) | Yes | ~ 8‑10 points | Slightly lower but still competitive; check current brochure |
| Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka | Possibly yes | Likely high points | Confirm via UNIZIK’s direct entry brochure |
| Abia State University (ABSU) | Yes (special DE) | Possibly ~ 8‑10 points | May have extra conditions; internal policies vary |
| Ebonyi State University (EBSU) | Likely yes | Moderate to high | Check requirement specifically for Law |
| Igbinedion University, Okada | Yes | Likely high | Private university; cost might be higher |
| Universities NOT accepting IJMB for Law (200L) such as UNILAG, UNICAL, UI, OAU | No / restricted | — | Avoid assuming; check policies yearly |
Conclusion
Using IJMB for Law admission in 2025/2026 is possible if you pick the right university, meet required grade points, and satisfy subject requirements. Some federal and state universities accept IJMB for Law, while others do not. To succeed:
- Confirm university’s current policy (because it can change)
- Target high IJMB grade points (Law is competitive)
- Be sure you have the needed O’Level subjects and good grades
- Consider using IJMB as a backup if UTME score is low
With careful planning and good performance in the IJMB exam, you can secure admission into Law via direct entry or skipping a level.