Schools That Accept Diploma for Direct Entry Admission in Nigeria (2025 Complete Guide)

Introduction

Many students in Nigeria complete National Diplomas (ND), Ordinary National Diplomas (OND), Higher National Diplomas (HND), or Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) and aim to continue their education directly at university. Understanding which schools accept these diplomas for direct entry admission is key to saving time and advancing your career.

This comprehensive guide includes:

• Definitions of diploma and direct entry

• How Nigeria’s education system handles diploma-based admission

• A categorized list of schools (Federal, State, Private) accepting diplomas

• Application steps and subject requirements

• Advantages and disadvantages

• Real examples and comparisons

• Summary table

• Over 10 FAQs with clear answers

---

1. Understanding Diploma-Based Direct Entry Admission

H2: What Is a Diploma?

A diploma in Nigeria typically refers to:

• OND (Ordinary National Diploma): two-year program in polytechnics

• HND (Higher National Diploma): follow-up to OND

• NCE (Nigeria Certificate in Education): two-year college program

• Professional diplomas in fields like business or IT

H2: What Is Direct Entry Admission?

Direct Entry (DE) allows qualified candidates—those holding diplomas or A‑Levels—to gain admission into 200 Level of a university program, skipping 100 Level entirely.

H3: Why Use Diploma for Direct Entry?

• Shorter degree duration (3 instead of 4 years)

• Recognition of prior learning and qualifications

• Especially helpful for professionals returning to school

---

2. Overview of Common Diploma Qualifications

---

3. How Diploma Direct Entry Works in Nigeria

1. Obtain your diploma (OND, HND, or NCE) with minimum grades (e.g., Upper Credit for OND/HND; Merit for NCE).

2. Check university’s direct entry requirements to confirm they accept diploma.

3. Register for Direct Entry via JAMB, selecting your university and course.

4. Apply on university’s official portal, submitting your diploma transcript, O’Level results, and other documents.

5. Complete the university’s DE screening or Post-UTME as applicable.

6. Check and accept admission via JAMB CAPS, then proceed to clearance.

---

4. List of Nigerian Institutions Accepting Diploma for DE Admission

4.1 Federal Universities

• University of Lagos (UNILAG) — Accepts OND/HND into Science, Engineering, Management if Upper Credit or relevant grades are obtained.

• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) — DE admission from OND/HND in related fields such as Engineering, Science, Agriculture.

• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) — Accepts OND/HND for direct entry into Engineering, Science, Education under specified conditions.

• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) — Accepts OND and NCE depending on department, with required minimum grades.

4.2 State Universities

• Lagos State University (LASU) — Offers DE admission for OND/HND and NCE into Business, Communication, Science.

• Ekiti State University (EKSU) — Accepts NCE for Education programs; OND/HND for Science and Technology.

• Rivers State University (RSU) — Accepts OND/HND in Engineering, Science, Maritime courses.

• Osun State University (UNIOSUN) — Accepts OND/HND, especially in Engineering and Science faculties.

4.3 Private Universities

• Covenant University — Accepts OND/HND/NCE with good grades for Business, Engineering, Social Sciences.

• Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) — Accepts OND/HND into Law, Science, Management, subject to merit screening.

• Babcock University — Accepts OND/HND into Health, Social Sciences, Education.

• Madonna University — Accepts diploma for DE into Humanities, Business, Management.

• Igbinedion University — Accepts OND/HND for Business and STEM fields.

---

5. Step-by-Step Application Process for DE via Diploma

1. Secure your diploma certificate and transcript from your institution.

2. Confirm your chosen university accepts your diploma—check admission brochure.

3. Register for JAMB Direct Entry, ensuring you meet eligibility.

4. Complete the university’s DE form and submit required documents.

5. Pay the screening fee if applicable.

6. Take DE screening or equivalence assessment, if required.

7. Watch for admission offer, accept via JAMB CAPS.

8. Proceed with clearance—medical check, school fees, hear next steps.

---

6. Courses Typically Offered via Diploma DE

---

7. Pros & Cons of Using Diploma for DE Admission

Pros

• Time-efficient: Start at 200 Level

• Cost-effective: Save tuition for one year

• Advanced qualification recognition

• Flexible pathway for upgrading qualifications

Cons

• Higher competition, fewer spaces allocated

• Varies by course and institution—some do not accept diploma

• Requires strong academic performance (Upper Credit, Merit)

• May involve extra screening or equivalence exams

---

8. Summary Table: Schools Accepting Diploma for DE Admission

---

9. Real-Life Examples

• Aisha had OND in Computer Engineering (Upper Credit) and gained DE admission into UNILAG’s 200 level in the same program.

• Emeka with NCE in Biology secured DE admission into the Department of Education at UI.

• Chinaza gained direct admission into Covenant University via her HND (Lower Credit) in Business Administration, starting at 200 Level.

---

10. Best Practices for Diploma Candidates Applying via DE

• Target Schools early: Check admissions criteria before applying

• Score high grades: Upper Credit or better for OND/HND; Merit for NCE

• Prepare your documents: Diploma, transcript, O’Level, birth certificate

• Apply to multiple schools: Improve your chances of admission

• Stay informed: Use official websites and portals

• Prepare for screening: Some universities request mini-tests or interviews

---

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use OND for Direct Entry into university?
   Yes—OND is widely accepted for DE into 200 Level.

2. Is HND also accepted for DE?
   Yes—HND holders with Lower Credit or above can apply for DE.

3. Can NCE qualify me for university entry?
   Yes—especially for Education-related programs via DE.

4. Which institutions accept diploma DE?
   Many federal, state, and private universities across Nigeria; see table above.

5. Are there cut-off marks for diploma DE admission?
   Yes—may include JAMB DE score and university-specific screening.

6. Is DE admission easier than UTME?
   Not necessarily easier—it requires strong prior qualifications and competition can be intense.

7. Can I gain admission into Engineering with OND?
   Yes—with OND in a related engineering field and Upper Credit in many universities.

8. How do I apply for JAMB DE?
   Register on JAMB portal when application opens, choose ‘Direct Entry’, and your university of choice.

9. Will I pay less tuition as DE student?
   Most likely yes—you skip fees for 100 Level but still pay for total course duration.

10. Can I change course after DE admission?
    Possible, but depends on university policies and departmental availability.

---

Conclusion

Obtaining a diploma and applying via Direct Entry offers a practical and accelerated path to university admission in Nigeria. Whether you hold OND, HND, or NCE, many reputable institutions—including federal, state, and private universities—accept diploma holders for direct entry into 200 Level. With proper preparation, document readiness, and informed school selection, this route can lead to smooth academic progression and career advancement.