1. What Is JAMB Direct Entry Admission?
JAMB Direct Entry admission is an alternative route to gain university admission without writing the usual Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Instead, candidates who have completed certain recognized qualifications can apply for 200 Level admission directly, skipping 100 Level.
This admission route is ideal for students who already hold diplomas, National Certificates in Education (NCE), or other recognized qualifications, and wish to further their education in Nigerian universities.
Key Point: Direct Entry candidates do not take UTME but must meet JAMB’s Direct Entry admission requirements.
2. Who Is Eligible for JAMB Direct Entry Admission 2025/2026?
To be eligible for Direct Entry admission, candidates must possess one or more of the following qualifications:
- National Diploma (ND) from recognized polytechnics or colleges.
- Higher National Diploma (HND) holders can also apply but sometimes must have ND first.
- National Certificate in Education (NCE) holders from recognized Colleges of Education.
- Advanced Level (A-Level) certificates from recognized institutions.
- IJMB (Interim Joint Matriculation Board) certificates.
- Pre-degree certificates from recognized universities.
- Other recognized professional qualifications accepted by the university.
Candidates must also meet the JAMB minimum entry requirements for the course and university they are applying to.
3. JAMB Direct Entry Admission Requirements 2025/2026
Here is a detailed list of requirements you must fulfill to apply for Direct Entry admission through JAMB in 2025/2026:
3.1 Educational Qualifications
You must have any of these recognized certificates:
- National Diploma (ND) with at least a Lower Credit or Merit (depending on the institution).
- National Certificate in Education (NCE) with a minimum of Merit or Credit.
- A-Level results with passes in relevant subjects.
- IJMB certificate with acceptable grades.
- Pre-degree results meeting university standards.
- HND holders are also eligible, especially for higher-level admissions.
3.2 O’Level Requirements
In addition to the above, you must have at least five (5) credits in your Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) or equivalent exams (WAEC, NECO, GCE). These credits should include English Language and Mathematics or other relevant subjects for your chosen course.
3.3 JAMB Direct Entry Form
You must purchase and fill the JAMB Direct Entry application form through the JAMB portal or accredited centers. The form opens usually from May/June each year.
3.4 Meet University-Specific Requirements
Some universities may have additional requirements such as:
- Minimum grade points on your previous qualifications.
- Minimum post-ND or post-NCE GPA.
- Certain required subjects in your qualifications depending on the course you want.
3.5 Other Important Documents
- A valid JAMB Direct Entry registration slip.
- Passport photograph.
- Identification documents (e.g., National ID, International Passport).
- Credentials or certificates from previous institutions.
4. How to Apply for JAMB Direct Entry Admission Step-by-Step
Applying for JAMB Direct Entry admission is straightforward if you follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Check that you have the required qualifications and O’Level results that meet the minimum criteria.
Step 2: Obtain Your JAMB Direct Entry Form
Visit the JAMB portal or authorized CBT centers to purchase the Direct Entry form. You will need your previous qualifications and personal details to register.
Step 3: Fill the JAMB Direct Entry Application Form
Complete the form online, including selecting your preferred universities and courses. Ensure you choose courses related to your prior qualifications.
Step 4: Upload Your Credentials
Some institutions require scanned copies of your certificates and passport photographs during the application.
Step 5: Submit and Pay the Application Fee
Make sure your payment is confirmed, and you receive your JAMB Direct Entry registration slip.
Step 6: Apply for University Screening/Post-UTME
After JAMB registration, you must also apply for and attend any Post-UTME screening or aptitude tests required by the university.
Step 7: Monitor Your Admission Status
Keep checking the JAMB CAPS portal and the university’s admission portal for updates on your admission status.
5. Types of Qualifications Accepted for Direct Entry Admission
Here are the main qualifications accepted for direct entry admission in Nigerian universities:
5.1 National Diploma (ND)
ND from recognized polytechnics or colleges with a minimum merit or lower credit is accepted.
5.2 Higher National Diploma (HND)
HND holders can apply, often for higher levels or postgraduate entry, subject to university rules.
5.3 National Certificate in Education (NCE)
NCE holders can apply directly to education-related courses or others, depending on their qualifications.
5.4 A-Level Certificates
Candidates with A-Level passes in relevant subjects can gain admission through direct entry.
5.5 IJMB (Interim Joint Matriculation Board)
IJMB certificates with acceptable grades provide an alternative to UTME.
5.6 Pre-Degree Certificates
Some universities accept pre-degree qualifications as a pathway for direct entry.
6. JAMB Direct Entry vs UTME: What’s the Difference?
| Aspect | JAMB Direct Entry | JAMB UTME |
|---|---|---|
| Who Can Apply | Candidates with ND, NCE, A-Level, IJMB, etc. | Candidates with SSCE or equivalent only |
| Entry Level | Direct admission to 200 Level | Admission to 100 Level |
| Exam | No UTME exam; just Post-UTME or screening | UTME exam is compulsory |
| Application Form | JAMB Direct Entry form | JAMB UTME registration |
| Course Eligibility | Related to previous qualifications | Wide range of courses |
7. Benefits of Applying Through Direct Entry Admission
7.1 Saves Time
You skip 100 Level and start at 200 Level, saving one full academic year.
7.2 Utilizes Previous Qualifications
Makes good use of your diploma, NCE, or other certifications.
7.3 Less Competitive
Direct entry can sometimes be less competitive than UTME for certain courses.
7.4 Flexible Admission Options
Allows access to universities without repeating the UTME exam.
8. Challenges and Cons of Direct Entry Admission
8.1 Limited Courses
Not all courses are available through direct entry; some universities restrict access.
8.2 Higher Academic Expectations
You may face tougher coursework as you enter at 200 Level.
8.3 Competition for Limited Spaces
Universities allocate fewer spaces for direct entry candidates.
8.4 Additional Screening
Some schools require rigorous Post-UTME exams even for direct entry candidates.
9. Popular Courses Available for Direct Entry Candidates
Common courses that accept direct entry students include:
- Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)
- Medicine and Surgery (with special conditions)
- Business Administration
- Computer Science
- Accounting
- Education (various subjects)
- Law
- Mass Communication
- Microbiology
Always confirm with your preferred university to see available courses for direct entry.
10. Tips to Increase Your Chances of Successful Direct Entry Admission
- Meet or Exceed Minimum Qualifications: Ensure your previous certificates meet required grades.
- Choose Related Courses: Select courses closely related to your previous qualification.
- Prepare for Post-UTME: Some universities weigh Post-UTME scores heavily for direct entry.
- Apply Early: Purchase and submit forms as soon as they are available.
- Research University Requirements: Each institution may have specific criteria; always verify.
- Maintain Good O’Level Grades: Your SSCE/WASSCE/NECO results are still critical.
Summary Table: Key Direct Entry Admission Requirements 2025/2026
| Requirement | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | ND, NCE, A-Level, IJMB, Pre-degree | Must be from recognized bodies |
| Minimum Grades | ND – Lower Credit/Merit; NCE – Merit | Varies by institution |
| O’Level Results | Minimum 5 credits including English | WAEC, NECO, GCE acceptable |
| Application Form | JAMB Direct Entry form | Purchase online or CBT centers |
| Identification Documents | Valid ID (National ID, Passport, etc.) | Required for registration |
| Post-UTME Screening | Usually required by universities | Important for final admission |
| Course Selection | Related to previous qualification | Must meet university criteria |
