Universities in Nigeria That Accept WAEC Result Only for Admission 2025/2026
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What “WAEC Only Admission” Means
- Why It Matters: Benefits of WAEC-Only Admissions
- Public Universities with Foundation/JUPEB/Pre-Degree Programs
- 4.1 University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- 4.2 Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- 4.3 Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- 4.4 University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- 4.5 University of Jos (UNIJOS)
- Distance Learning Universities: NOUN & Others
- Private Universities That Admit with WAEC Only
- 6.1 Babcock University
- 6.2 Madonna University
- 6.3 Igbinedion University
- 6.4 Bowen University
- 6.5 Benson Idahosa University
- 6.6 Redeemer’s University
- 6.7 Covenant University
- 6.8 Bingham University
- 6.9 Other Private Universities (State Examples)
- State Universities Accepting WAEC-only Admissions
- Comparison: Public vs Private vs Distance Learning Options
- Examples: How Students Use WAEC-Only Admission Paths
- Summary Table Before Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions (10+)
- Conclusion
1. Introduction
If you’ve been wondering whether you can go to university in Nigeria using only your WAEC result—without writing JAMB—the answer is yes! Several universities allow admission by relying purely on WAEC (or equivalent O-Level qualifications), often through foundation programs, JUPEB, or direct entry. This guide breaks down options clearly and helpfully.
2. What “WAEC Only Admission” Means
This means gaining entry to university using only your WAEC/NECO results—without taking the JAMB UTME. Most routes include:
- Foundation or remedial programs at universities
- A-Level schemes like JUPEB or IJMB
- Distance learning / Open University admission
- Pre-degree programs targeted at non-JAMB candidates
These are fully recognized by NUC and qualify for first-degree education.
3. Why It Matters: Benefits of WAEC-Only Admissions
- No JAMB stress or cost—reduces pressure and fees.
- Faster routes into university, especially via foundation or A-Level programs.
- Flexible learning, especially with distance or part-time options.
- Second chance for students who didn’t score well in JAMB.
4. Public Universities with Foundation/JUPEB/Pre-Degree Programs
4.1 University of Lagos (UNILAG)
Offers foundation and JUPEB programs. Successful students enter 200 level.
4.2 Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Has both a Pre-Degree and JUPEB route to enter 100 or 200 level respectively.
4.3 Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
Through its School of Basic Studies, offers Pre-degree and accepts JUPEB for second-year entry.
4.4 University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
Accepts IJMB/JUPEB for admission into 200 level. Steady and reliable route.
4.5 University of Jos (UNIJOS)
Offers remedial/pre-degree programs leading to 100 level entry without JAMB.
5. Distance Learning Universities: NOUN & Others
National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) admits based solely on WAEC or NECO results. It offers undergraduate programs entirely distance-based, allowing flexibility and eliminating JAMB.
Other federal universities with distance or direct-entry alternative libraries (like UNILAG CDL) also offer similar streams, though NOUN is the most prominent.
6. Private Universities That Admit with WAEC Only
6.1 Babcock University
Offers direct entry admission via foundation or JUPEB without requiring JAMB.
6.2 Madonna University
Allows admission via pre-degree or diploma for candidates who didn’t meet the JAMB cut-off.
6.3 Igbinedion University
Accepts WAEC-only through its foundation program leading to direct 100 level.
6.4 Bowen University
Has a Pre-Degree Science program to help students enter 100 level.
6.5 Benson Idahosa University (BIU)
Offers foundation and JUPEB programs to bypass JAMB.
6.6 Redeemer’s University
Provides pre-degree admission route for non-JAMB candidates.
6.7 Covenant University
Offers high-quality private education, but admission still requires JAMB—so not WAEC-only. Acknowledge for context.
6.8 Bingham University
Private, accepts direct admission but requires JAMB. Not WAEC-only.
6.9 Other Private Universities
Many state and private institutions accept WAEC/NECO combinations—see long list in state/private section.
7. State Universities Accepting WAEC-only Admissions
Some state universities offer WAEC-only admission through special foundation or remedial programs:
- Abia State University, Uturu
- Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba
- Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma
- Benue State University, Makurdi
- Lagos State University, Ojo
- Rivers State University
- Many others across Nigeria accept WAEC/NECO in two sittings.
8. Comparison: Public vs Private vs Distance Learning Options
| Option | Requires JAMB? | Duration | Cost | Flexibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation / JUPEB (Public) | No | ~1 year | Medium | Low–Medium |
| NOUN (Open Univ) | No | Varies | Low | High |
| Private Foundation | No | ~1 year | High | Medium |
| Pre-degree (State/Public) | No | ~1 year | Low–Medium | Low–Medium |
9. Examples: Student Paths to Admission
- Example A: Student missed JAMB cut-off → enrolled in JUPEB at UNILAG → scored top grades → entered 200 level.
- Example B: Employed student avoided JAMB → studied with NOUN part-time → earned degree at own pace.
- Example C: Candidate from Cross River took private university foundation → straight to 100 level.
10. Summary Table Before Conclusion
| Route | Entry Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| JUPEB / Pre-degree (Public) | 100 or 200 level | Fast DE route to federal varsity |
| NOUN (Open Univ) | 100 level | Flexible low-cost self-study |
| Private Foundation Programs | 100 level | Full-service WIWA education |
| State Uni Remedial | 100 level | Local path, WAEC-only option |
11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I skip JAMB entirely with these routes?
- Yes—foundation/JUPEB, NOUN, and some private paths allow WAEC-only admission.
- Do I start from 100 or 200 level?
- Foundation → 100; JUPEB → 200 level DE; NOUN → 100 level.
- Is NOUN degree valid for NYSC?
- Yes—it’s fully accredited and qualifies students for NYSC.
- Which universities offer JUPEB?
- Many public varsities: UNILAG, OAU, UNILORIN, ABU, UNIJOS, etc.
- Is JUPEB expensive?
- Costs vary by center but generally mid-range compared to private fees.
- How long is NOUN program?
- Self-paced; typical part-time degree takes 4–6 years.
- Can I work while studying?
- Yes—especially with NOUN and part-time foundation.
- Are these degrees recognized?
- Yes—these are NUC accredited and fully legitimate.
- Is admission easier this way?
- It bypasses JAMB, but scholastic readiness is still required.
- Can I transfer later?
- With JUPEB (DE) you enter 200 level, so no transfer needed.
12. Conclusion
Yes—you can gain admission to Nigerian universities for 2025/2026 using only your WAEC result, without writing JAMB. Options include foundation/JUPEB routes at federal or state schools, NOUN, and private university foundation programs. Each route offers its own advantages—fast direct entry, flexibility, affordability, or campus experience. Choose what fits your situation, study hard, and step confidently into university life.