Introduction
Every year, thousands of Nigerian students wish to change the university where they are studying. This process is called inter-university transfer admission. It allows students who are not satisfied with their current university to move to another school without starting all over again.
Students may want to transfer for many reasons: better facilities, closer location to home, cheaper fees, better course opportunities, or personal reasons.
But the truth is that many students in Nigeria do not understand how inter-university transfer admission works. Some think it is impossible, while others assume you must bribe your way in. The good news is that it is completely possible, but you must follow the right step-by-step process.
This guide will explain everything you need to know:
- Meaning of inter-university transfer admission in Nigeria
- Who is eligible and requirements
- Step-by-step guide on how to apply
- Fees and costs involved
- Universities that accept transfers
- Pros and cons of inter-university transfer admission
- Common mistakes students make
- FAQs with clear answers
By the end of this article, you will understand the process and be ready to apply for your transfer if you wish.
What Is Inter-University Transfer Admission in Nigeria?
Inter-university transfer admission is when a student currently studying in one university in Nigeria officially moves to another university and continues their studies from the level they stopped.
For example, if you are in 200 level in UNILAG, you can apply to transfer to LASU and continue in 200 level or 300 level, depending on the new university’s rules.
It is different from starting afresh through UTME or Direct Entry. Here, your current results and credits are used to place you in the new university.
Why Do Students Apply for Inter-University Transfer in Nigeria?
There are many reasons why students want to transfer:
- Location Issues: Maybe the current university is too far from home.
- High School Fees: Some students transfer to cheaper universities.
- Better Facilities: Students may prefer universities with better laboratories, hostels, or libraries.
- Course Opportunities: Some schools do not offer certain courses, so students transfer to where the course is available.
- Academic Challenges: A student who is struggling in a particular environment may find another university more suitable.
- Personal or Family Reasons: Parents may request their child to transfer closer to home.
- Strikes and Instability: Frequent strikes in a university may force students to move to a more stable one.
Who Can Apply for Inter-University Transfer Admission in Nigeria?
Not every student can apply for a transfer. Universities have clear rules.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Current Student Status: You must be a registered student in an accredited university.
- Good Academic Standing: You need a strong CGPA (often minimum 3.0 or 2.5 on a 5-point scale).
- Completed 100 Level: Most universities accept students from 200 level upward, not freshers.
- No Disciplinary Issues: Students with expulsion or suspension cases are not allowed.
- Available Space: The new university must have space in your department.
- Accredited Course: Your current course must exist and be accredited in the new university.
Step by Step Guide to Inter-University Transfer Admission in Nigeria
Now let us go through the step-by-step process.
Step 1: Research and Choose the University You Want to Transfer To
- Make a list of universities that accept inter-university transfers.
- Check if they offer your course.
- Confirm if there is space in the department.
Step 2: Understand the New University’s Requirements
- Visit the official school website.
- Check the transfer admission page.
- Some schools set a minimum CGPA requirement.
Step 3: Write to Your Current University
- Inform your current Head of Department or Dean.
- Apply for a transfer letter.
- Collect your transcript request form.
Step 4: Collect and Prepare Your Academic Transcript
- This is the most important document.
- Request your transcript from the registrar of your current university.
- The transcript must be sent directly to the new university.
Step 5: Get Clearance from Your Current University
- Clear all outstanding school fees.
- Return library books and departmental property.
- Collect a clearance certificate if required.
Step 6: Purchase Transfer Form from the New University
- Many schools sell transfer forms online.
- Prices range from ₦50,000 – ₦200,000 depending on the university.
Step 7: Submit Your Application and Documents
- Fill the transfer form completely.
- Attach your transcript, O’level results, birth certificate, and passport photographs.
- Submit before the deadline.
Step 8: Wait for Screening and Approval
- The new university will review your documents.
- They check your CGPA, course match, and available space.
- Some universities invite students for an interview.
Step 9: Receive Transfer Admission Letter
- If approved, you will be given a transfer admission letter.
- The letter shows the level you are admitted into (200L, 300L, etc.).
Step 10: Register as a New Student in the University
- Pay acceptance fee.
- Complete course registration.
- Resume lectures and become part of your new school.
Documents Required for Inter-University Transfer Admission
Most universities in Nigeria ask for:
- Application form (completed online or offline)
- Official transcript from your current university
- O’level result (WAEC, NECO, or equivalent)
- Birth certificate or sworn affidavit of age
- Passport photographs
- JAMB admission letter (from your original admission)
- Clearance certificate from your former university
Duration of Inter-University Transfer Process in Nigeria
The whole process can take 2–6 months, depending on:
- How fast your current university processes your transcript
- When the new university opens transfer applications
- Screening and approval time
Universities in Nigeria That Accept Inter-University Transfer Admission
Not all universities in Nigeria accept transfers. Some are very strict, while others are more flexible.
Federal Universities
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
State Universities
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Rivers State University (RSU)
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
- Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
Private Universities
- Babcock University
- Covenant University
- Caleb University
- Bowen University
- Madonna University
How Much Does Inter-University Transfer Admission Cost in Nigeria?
The cost depends on the school.
- Federal Universities: ₦50,000 – ₦150,000
- State Universities: ₦70,000 – ₦200,000
- Private Universities: ₦150,000 – ₦500,000
This excludes acceptance fees and school fees after the transfer.
Pros and Cons of Inter-University Transfer in Nigeria
Pros
- Continue your studies without starting afresh
- Access better facilities and opportunities
- Relocation closer to family or work
- Chance to pursue your dream course if available
Cons
- Expensive transfer fees
- Delay in transcript processing
- Not all universities accept transfer
- Limited admission slots available
Common Mistakes Students Make During Inter-University Transfer
- Waiting until it’s too late to apply.
- Not checking the new university’s CGPA requirement.
- Submitting incomplete documents.
- Owing school fees in the former university.
- Applying to universities that do not accept transfers.
Comparison: Inter-University Transfer vs Fresh Admission
| Feature | Inter-University Transfer | Fresh Admission (UTME/DE) |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Level | Continue from current level | Start from 100L or 200L |
| Time Taken | Saves 1–3 years | Full duration |
| Admission Process | Transcript + screening | JAMB + screening |
| Cost | Higher transfer fee | Normal acceptance fee |
| Stress Level | Moderate (depends on transcript) | High (UTME competition) |
Summary Table: Step by Step Guide to Inter-University Transfer Admission in Nigeria
| Step | Action | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Research universities | Confirm if your course exists |
| 2 | Check requirements | Minimum CGPA and eligibility |
| 3 | Inform current school | Get clearance and approval |
| 4 | Collect transcript | Sent directly to new school |
| 5 | Buy transfer form | Cost ₦50k–₦200k |
| 6 | Submit documents | Form, transcript, O’level, etc. |
| 7 | Screening & approval | May include interview |
| 8 | Get transfer letter | Shows level admitted into |
| 9 | Register in new school | Pay fees, attend lectures |
Conclusion
The inter-university transfer admission process in Nigeria is a great opportunity for students who want to change their school without starting from 100 level. While the process may look stressful, following the step-by-step guide makes it easier.
The key points to remember are:
- Check if your preferred university accepts transfers.
- Ensure you meet the CGPA and course requirements.
- Process your transcript early.
- Submit complete documents before the deadline.
With proper planning, you can successfully transfer to a better university and continue your studies smoothly.
If you are a Nigerian student thinking of changing schools, now you have the full roadmap on how to process your inter-university transfer admission.