1. What is UNILAG & Why It’s Competitive
What is UNILAG?
UNILAG (University of Lagos) is one of the top federal universities in Nigeria. It is located in Lagos. It offers many programmes, like Science, Engineering, Arts, Law, Medicine, Business, and more.
Why is admission into UNILAG competitive?
- Many students want to attend UNILAG, so many apply.
- Some programmes (e.g. Medicine, Law, Computer Science) are very popular and get many applicants.
- Cut‑off marks and Post‑UTME screening make it hard.
- UNILAG has strict rules: good O’Level grades, UTME score threshold, age limit, etc.
Because of this, you must plan well and meet all requirements to have good chance.
2. Types of Admission into UNILAG: UTME, Direct Entry, Foundation Studies
You can be admitted into UNILAG via several routes:
2.1 UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) Route
- Most students use this route. You write the JAMB UTME exam.
- If you choose UNILAG as your first choice, have required UTME score and O’Level results, you then do Post‑UTME screening.
2.2 Direct Entry Route
- If you already have advanced qualification beyond O’Level, like ND, NCE, GCE A‑Levels, JUPEB, IJMB, you can apply for 200 level admission via Direct Entry (DE).
- You also need matching subject combinations for the course.
2.3 Foundation Studies (via UNILAG’s School of Foundation Studies, formerly JUPEB route)
- If you do not meet direct O’Level/UTME requirements for some courses, you can first enroll in Foundation programme.
- After successfully completing it, you can gain admission into 200 level (depending on performance and subject combination) for degree programmes.
These three routes are the main ones for undergraduate admission at UNILAG 2025/2026.
3. Minimum Requirements for UNILAG Undergraduate Admission 2025/2026
Before you apply, you must make sure you satisfy the following:
| Requirement | UTME Candidates | Direct Entry Candidates | Foundation Studies Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|
| UTME Score | Minimum of 200 in 2025 UTME and UNILAG must be your first choice. (University Of Lagos) | Not always required; you need advanced qualification (ND/NCE/JUPEB etc.). (University Of Lagos) | O’Level requirements + pass foundation exam. (University Of Lagos) |
| O’Level Credits | At least five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects at one sitting, including English Language and Mathematics. (University Of Lagos) | Same O’Level minimum plus relevant qualifications. (University Of Lagos) | Same O’Level minimum; also subject combinations matter. (University Of Lagos) |
| Age | Must be 16 years or older by 30 September 2025. (University Of Lagos) | Same, usually. (University Of Lagos) | Same baseline for undergraduate levels. (University Of Lagos) |
| O’Level Uploading | O’Level results must be uploaded to JAMB CAPS by 12 September 2025. (University Of Lagos) | Same, as part of requirement. (University Of Lagos) | For JUPEB/Foundation, O’Level must be valid before application. (University Of Lagos) |
| UTME First Choice | UTME candidates must have selected UNILAG as first choice in JAMB. (University Of Lagos) | DE candidates also must make UNILAG their first choice in DE application. (University Of Lagos) | Not directly UTME but after foundation, you apply through proper first/second choice if needed. |
Make sure you meet all these before starting your application. Missing any of them can disqualify you.
4. Step‑by‑Step Guide: UTME Candidates
If you are applying to UNILAG using your 2025 UTME result (you are a UTME candidate), here are steps to follow:
Step 1: Choose UNILAG as First Choice in JAMB
- When registering for UTME, or later via a change of institution, ensure you selected UNILAG as your first choice. If you didn’t, you must change your first choice before admission screening.
- This is mandatory for UTME admission into UNILAG. (University Of Lagos)
Step 2: Sit JAMB UTME and Score at Least 200
- Write the UTME exam. After writing, check your score. If you obtain at least 200 points and other requirements, you are eligible for UNILAG’s Post‑UTME screening. (University Of Lagos)
Step 3: Ensure You Have Good O’Level Results
- Five (5) credit passes in required subjects. Must include English Language and Mathematics.
- Must be obtained in one sitting. Some departments may allow two sittings, but UNILAG generally prefers one. (University Of Lagos)
Step 4: Upload O’Level Results to JAMB CAPS
- After your O’Level exam (WAEC / NECO etc.), ensure your results are uploaded to JAMB CAPS system by the deadline: 12 September 2025. No upload = no admission. (University Of Lagos)
Step 5: Meet Age Requirement
- You must be at least 16 years old by 30 September 2025. If you are younger, UNILAG will not consider your application via UTME route. (University Of Lagos)
Step 6: Register for UNILAG Post‑UTME Screening
- Registration opens: 28 July 2025. Closes: 20 August 2025 (later extended to ~23 August for some programmes). (Schoolnews)
- Go to UNILAG admissions portal (likely admissions.unilag.edu.ng or UNILAG website → Admissions → Post‑UTME Application). (StudyPlace NG)
- Log in using UTME registration number as username and your surname (usually in lower case) as password. (University Of Lagos)
Step 7: Pay Required Application / Screening Fees
- Find payment details via the UNILAG portal. You’ll need to generate invoice or payment advice. (University Of Lagos)
- Fee: ₦2,000 for application form + ₦3,500 for administrative/test logistics. Total usually ₦5,500. (Schoolnews)
Step 8: Complete the Screening Form, Upload Necessary Documents
- After payment, fill form on portal: personal details, course you want, O’Level subjects, etc.
- Upload scanned copies of O’Level certificate/result slip. Must meet the required subjects & grades.
- Use valid, active personal email address for communication. UNILAG uses email to send update, exam pass etc. (University Of Lagos)
Step 9: Attend Mock Exam & Post‑UTME Aptitude Test
- UNILAG schedules mock exam from August 25‑27, 2025. This helps you practice. (University Of Lagos)
- The main Post‑UTME online aptitude test is from September 1‑5, 2025. Must write it. If you miss, you may be disqualified. (University Of Lagos)
Step 10: Wait for Admission Offer / Merit List
- After Post‑UTME screening, UNILAG will compile merit list, departmental cut‑offs, etc.
- If you are successful, you will be offered admission via JAMB CAPS (Candidates must accept the offer in CAPS). Make sure to regularly check CAPS status.
Step 11: Register for Matriculation and Other University Registration
- After offer, pay acceptance/acceptance deposit fees, school fees, complete registration.
- Provide required documents: birth certificate, O’Level certificate, UTME result slip, etc.
- Attend orientation, collect timetable, etc.
That completes the UTME route process.
5. Step‑by‑Step Guide: Direct Entry (DE) Candidates
If you already have ND / NCE / A‑Levels / IJMB / JUPEB or equivalent, and you want to get into UNILAG via Direct Entry, here are your steps:
Step 1: Confirm Your Qualification is Accepted
- Your qualification must be recognized by UNILAG. For example, ND with upper credit, NCE with good grade, A‑Levels (or IJMB / JUPEB) in relevant subjects. (University Of Lagos)
- Make sure your subject combination aligns with the course you wish to study. For example, for Science courses, you need science subjects; for Arts, arts subjects.
Step 2: Choose UNILAG as First Choice for Direct Entry in JAMB DE Application
- When filling the Direct Entry application via JAMB, select UNILAG. This is crucial.
Step 3: Ensure O’Level Requirements
- Even with DE, you must still have SUFFICIENT O’Level results: at least five credit passes, including English and Mathematics.
Step 4: Upload O’Level Results to JAMB CAPS if Needed
- Ensure your O’Level results are properly uploaded into the JAMB CAPS or relevant portal.
Step 5: Make the Direct Entry Screening Application at UNILAG
- UNILAG will call for DE screening. You must register, pay any required fees, fill form, upload documents.
Step 6: Sit for DE Screening / Interview if required
- Some departments require interviews or internal screening. Be ready.
Step 7: Wait for Admission Offer via DE Merit Lists
- If successful, you will receive offer via JAMB CAPS. Accept in time.
Step 8: Complete Registration & Matriculation
- After offer, pay required fees, register, provide final documents, etc.
6. Step‑by‑Step Guide: UNILAG Foundation Studies (JUPEB) Route
If you are enrolling in UNILAG’s School of Foundation Studies (JUPEB programme), here is how to go about it:
Step 1: Check Eligibility and Subject Combination
- You need at least five (5) credit passes in O’Level / WAEC / NECO etc., in relevant subjects. Includes English, Mathematics, and three others relevant to desired course. (University Of Lagos)
- Then choose subject combination according to course you aim to study (e.g. science, arts, languages etc.). UNILAG publishes the combinations. (University Of Lagos)
Step 2: Apply Online for Foundation Studies
- Visit the School of Foundation Studies site (foundation.unilag.edu.ng). (University Of Lagos)
- Follow instructions to fill pre‑application form. It will give you a Payment Reference Number (PRN). Use your correct names as on NIN Slip / Birth Certificate. (University Of Lagos)
Step 3: Pay the Foundation Application Form Fee
- Fee for the Foundation Application Form is around ₦35,000 (non‑refundable) excluding bank charges. (University Of Lagos)
Step 4: Complete Application Form & Print Copies
- After payment, log in with PRN, surname etc., complete the form. Print two copies for your records. (University Of Lagos)
Step 5: Write Foundation Entrance Examination
- There is an examination (entrance test) for Foundation Studies. Date in 2025 was Saturday 30 August 2025 at the Distance Learning Institute (DLI) of UNILAG. (University Of Lagos)
Step 6: Successful Candidates Move to Direct Entry
- If you pass the Foundation exam, you can enter directly into 200 level of your chosen degree programme (via DE) assuming your performance is good, subject combo is correct, and spaces are available. (University Of Lagos)
7. Important Dates & Deadlines to Remember
Here are key dates you must keep in mind (2025/2026 session). If you miss deadlines, you may lose chance.
| Event | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Post‑UTME Registration Opens | 28 July 2025 (Schoolnews) | 20 August 2025 (later extended to ~23 August) (StudyPlace NG) |
| Mock Post‑UTME Exam | 25–27 August 2025 (University Of Lagos) | |
| Main Post‑UTME Aptitude Test | 1‑5 September 2025 (University Of Lagos) | |
| Deadline for Uploading O’Level Results to JAMB CAPS | 12 September 2025 (University Of Lagos) | |
| Foundation Studies Application Opens | 26 May 2025 (University Of Lagos) | 15 August 2025 (University Of Lagos) |
| Foundation Entrance Exam | 30 August 2025 (University Of Lagos) |
These dates are based on official notices for 2025/2026. Always check UNILAG website because dates sometimes change a little.
8. Pros and Cons of UNILAG Admission Process
Knowing what’s good and what’s challenging helps you plan well.
Pros
- Clear criteria: You know what test score, O’Level grades, age, etc., required.
- Reputable university: A degree from UNILAG is highly respected in Nigeria and abroad.
- Multiple routes: UTME, direct entry, foundation studies give you options.
- Merit-based screening: Post‑UTME exams, tests and departmental cut‑offs help successful students get in based on performance.
- Online processes: Registration, exam, mock test are done online, making it easier especially with good internet access.
Cons / Challenges
- High competition: Many applicants, so even meeting minimum may not guarantee admission in competitive courses.
- Strict deadlines: Uploading O’Level to JAMB CAPS, paying fees, registering for Post‑UTME – if you miss, you may be disqualified.
- Age requirement: Youngers (below 16) won’t be eligible even if other requirements are met.
- Cost: Screening fees, mock exam, foundation application fees etc., plus cost of preparing (tutorials, practice).
- Stress of exams: Post‑UTME and aptitude test may be difficult; mock exam helps, but you need to prepare.
9. Comparisons: UNILAG vs Other Nigerian Universities Admissions
Let’s compare UNILAG’s admission process to some other universities to see what’s similar and what’s different.
| Feature | UNILAG 2025/2026 | Other Nigerian Federal / State Universities |
|---|---|---|
| UTME Cut‑off Minimum | 200 points for UTME first choice at UNILAG. (University Of Lagos) | Other universities may have cut‑off of 140, 150, 160 etc., depending on state and competition. |
| Age Requirement | At least 16 years by 30 September 2025. (University Of Lagos) | Many schools also have similar minimum age; some less strict. |
| O’Level Criteria | Five credits including English & Maths in one sitting required. (University Of Lagos) | Other schools may allow two sittings; some accept two sittings more widely. |
| Screening Method | Online Post‑UTME aptitude test + mock exam. (University Of Lagos) | Some other universities still use physical exams; some use online; mix. |
| First Choice Requirement | UNILAG requires you choose it as first choice. (University Of Lagos) | Others sometimes allow second choice or change of institution forms; policies vary. |
| Foundation / JUPEB / Direct Entry Route | UNILAG offers foundation studies, direct entry via JUPEB etc. (University Of Lagos) | Most universities also have these routes, but strength, exam seriousness and reputation differ. |
Knowing these differences helps you compare whether UNILAG is the right school for you, or whether an alternate university may be easier or better fit.
10. Summary Table Before Conclusion
Here is a useful summary table of all key steps, requirements, and dates for UNILAG admission 2025/2026 for quick reference:
| Step | What to Do | Key Requirements | Deadline / When |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Write UTME & Pick UNILAG as first choice | Sit UTME; score ≥ 200; have good O’Level results | Before UTME exam; first choice in JAMB |
| 2 | Get O’Level Credits | 5 credits including English & Maths in one sitting; relevant subjects | Before screening and application |
| 3 | Upload O’Level results to JAMB CAPS | Valid O’Level uploaded by deadline | By 12 September 2025 (University Of Lagos) |
| 4 | Register for Post‑UTME Screening | UTME score, first choice, age ≥16 | Registration opens 28 July 2025; closes ~20‑23 August 2025 (StudyPlace NG) |
| 5 | Pay screening / application fees | ₦2,000 + ₦3,500 = ₦5,500 total | During registration period |
| 6 | Participate in Mock Exam | Practice before main test | Mock: 25‑27 August 2025 (University Of Lagos) |
| 7 | Write Post‑UTME Aptitude Test | Have exam pass; attend test | 1‑5 September 2025 (University Of Lagos) |
| 8 | Apply via Direct Entry or Foundation if applying via those routes | Access requirements like ND/NCE/JUPEB etc. | Foundation application: 26 May‑15 Aug 2025 (University Of Lagos) |
| 9 | Wait for Admission Offer & Accept in JAMB CAPS | Meet merit cut‑off, departmental score | After screening exam results processed |
| 10 | Complete Registration & Matriculation | Pay fees; provide documents; attend orientation | As set by UNILAG (after offer) |
11. Conclusion
UNILAG’s admission process for 2025/2026 is structured and has clear steps. If you follow them carefully, you increase your chances of getting admitted. Here’s a recap of what to do:
- Make sure you have good O’Level results (five credits, including English & Maths).
- Score at least 200 in UTME, and choose UNILAG as first choice.
- Upload your O’Level results to JAMB CAPS before the deadline (12 September 2025).
- Apply for Post‑UTME in the correct period (28 July to 20‑23 August 2025).
- Pay all fees, complete forms, attend mock exam & main aptitude test.
- Or if using Direct Entry or Foundation route, fulfill their respective requirements.