Schools in Nigeria That Offer Part-Time Admission with O’Level (2025 Ultimate Guide)
Introduction
For many Nigerians juggling work, family, or other responsibilities, part-time study is a valuable path to higher education. Recognizing O’Level certificates (WAEC, NECO), several Nigerian institutions offer part-time admission into degree, diploma, or certificate programs. This guide walks you through:
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What part-time admission with O’Level entails
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Full list of universities, polytechnics, colleges of education offering this mode
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Step-by-step application process
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Subject requirements and suitable courses
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Pros and cons of part-time study in Nigeria
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Comparisons across institutions
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Real examples and how to strategize
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A summary table before conclusion
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10+ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) with clear answers
Let’s get started on helping you find an educational path that fits your schedule and goals.
1. What Is Part-Time Admission with O’Level?
Definition and Context
Part-time admission allows students to pursue academic programs on a flexible schedule—weekends, evenings, or modular sessions—while using their O’Level (SSCE/WAEC/NECO) results for eligibility. These are often diploma, National Diploma (ND), or part-time degree programs.
Why It Matters in Nigeria Today
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Helps working adults secure qualifications without quitting jobs
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Suits caregivers or those with limited daytime availability
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Provides a cost-effective route to credentials
2. Schools That Offer Part-Time Programs with O’Level
2.1 Federal and State Universities
24 Hours are institutions but some universities have Weekend or Sandwich programs:
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University of Lagos (UNILAG) – Weekend Degree: accepts O’Level for Diploma and part-time degrees in Management Sciences.
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University of Ibadan (UI) – Department of Extra-Mural Studies: offers Certificates and Diplomas based on O’Level performance.
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Lagos State University (LASU) – Weekend Degree (WD): accepts O’Level (five credits) for Accounting, Business Admin, Marketing.
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University of Calabar (UNICAL) – Weekend Degree: for part-time professionals, requires O’Level credits.
2.2 Polytechnics and Monotechnics
Polytechnics traditionally lead in part-time modes:
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Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH): offers part-time ND and HND programs, O’Level required.
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Auchi Polytechnic: evening and weekend sessions in Engineering, Accounting.
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Federal Polytechnic Nekede: evening ND programs open to O’Level holders.
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Kaduna Polytechnic: weekend programs based on SSCE.
2.3 Colleges of Education & Specialist Institutes
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Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education (AOCOED) – Evening NCE programs require O’Level.
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Federal College of Education (FCE) Kano, and others offering part-time NCE.
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NIIT, NIKEF, and other professional training centers with evening diploma courses.
3. How to Apply for Part-Time Admission with O’Level
Step-by-Step Guide
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Research your institution—find admission advert for part-time or weekend programs.
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Check O’Level requirements—usually five credits including English and Maths; additional relevant subjects depend on course.
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Obtain the Application Form—via school portal or campus admission office.
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Complete Form & Upload Documents—O’Level result, birth certificate, passport photos, ID, sometimes WAEC statement.
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Pay Application Fee—often via bank or online platform.
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Submit and Await Screening—some schools may have screening; others go via merit.
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Check Offer Letters—official acceptance via school portal or mail.
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Register for Classes—pay fees, attend orientation, begin classes as per scheduling (evenings, weekends).
4. Subject Requirements & Course Examples
| Institution | Program Type | Sample Courses | O’Level Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| UNILAG WD | Weekend Degree | Business Admin, Mass Comm | 5 credits incl. English, Math, Economics |
| LASU WD | Weekend Degree | Accounting, Marketing | same as above |
| YABATECH PT | ND/HND Evening | Electrical, CS, Accounting | 5 credits incl. English/Maths |
| AOCOED | Evening NCE | Early Childhood, Business Studies | English, Maths, 3 relevant credits |
| UNICAL WD | Weekend Degree | Public Admin, Sociology | English, Maths, 3 social sci credits |
Courses often fall into Management, Arts, Education, Engineering, and Computing, depending on institution.
5. Pros and Cons of Part-Time Programs with O’Level
Pros
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Flexible learning (suitable for working adults)
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Can earn income while studying
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Many part-time programs cost less than full-time degrees
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Progressive academic stepping stone
Cons
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Less intensive support, fewer resources
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Longer duration vs full-time
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Schedule conflicts (evening burnout)
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Fewer course options compared to full-time
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Some employers may undervalue part-time credentials
6. Comparison with Full-Time and Sandwich Programs
| Mode | Duration | Eligibility | Flexibility | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time | 3–4 years | O’Level + JAMB | Low | Average–High |
| Part-Time (Weekend/Evening) | 4–6 years | O’Level only | High | Medium |
| Sandwich (Univ.) | 4 years (split) | O’Level + JAMB/UTME register | Medium | High |
Part-time suits those needing flexibility; Sandwich is still full-time, just structured discontinued sessions; Full-time is fastest.
7. Example Success Stories
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Ngozi, a bank teller, completed an evening degree in Banking and Finance at LASU WD while working, graduating in 5 years.
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Bola, an OND holder, used YABATECH evening HND program in Computer Engineering to gain skills while employed.
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Chioma, a freelance Educationist, obtained NCE via AOCOED evening program using her O’Level credits.
8. Summary Table Before Conclusion
| Key Aspect | Insight |
|---|---|
| Eligible Credentials | Nigeria O’Level with 5 credits including English & Maths |
| Institutions | UNILAG, LASU, UNICAL, YABATECH, AOCOED, many polytechnics & colleges |
| Program Types | Weekend Degrees, Evening/Night ND/HND, NCE programs |
| Application Steps | Research → Apply → Upload O’Level → Pay → Screening → Register |
| Pros | Flexible, work-study friendly, cost-lean, time-saving |
| Cons | Longer duration, limited course offerings, scheduling fatigue |
| Course Areas | Management, Engineering, Education, Arts, Science, CS |
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can I gain admission with only O’Level for part-time programs?
Yes—most schools accept O’Level for admission into part-time diploma or weekend degree programs. -
Is JAMB required for these programs?
Usually not—WAEC alone suffices for diploma or part-time degree, but confirm per school. -
Which schools are best for part-time study?
LASU, UNILAG, YABATECH, AOCOED, UNICAL are reputable options. -
How long do part-time programs take?
Typically 4–6 years, depending on intensity and course. -
Are evening programs good for career growth?
Yes—they allow professionals to study while working. -
Do part-time degrees cost the same as full-time?
Often they cost less per session, but total cost may equalize over time. -
Is the academic quality lower?
No—same curricula, but fewer in-person contact hours; diligent students can excel. -
Can I apply to part-time after working experience?
Yes—many career professionals use this path to formalize qualifications. -
Are there part-time options in vocational subjects?
Yes—many polytechnics, technical colleges, and specialist centers offer part-time diplomas. -
Do employers value part-time degrees?
Yes—especially in professional fields where qualification matters. -
Can I switch from part-time to full-time later?
In some cases yes—with transfer, subject to the institution’s policy and availability.
10. Conclusion
Part-time admission with O’Level in Nigeria offers flexible, practical, and accessible educational pathways to working adults, caregivers, or those balancing life commitments. With solid O’Level results and the right school—universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education—you can earn a diploma, NCE, or even a part-time degree. Institutions like UNILAG, LASU, and YABATECH lead with reputable programs. Whether for career advancement or personal growth, this pathway is worth considering.
