What Is JUPEB and Why It Matters
JUPEB stands for Joint Universities Preliminary Examination Board. It’s a single-year (9–12 months) A-Level programme run by ABU, Zaria. Students select three subjects relevant to their intended university course, plus a general English paper. Successful candidates receive a JUPEB certificate, which is used to apply for 200-level Direct Entry admission into Nigerian universities—no JAMB UTME needed. It’s recognized by the federal government and NUC.
Students need at least five O-Level credits, including relevant subject combinations. Awaiting results are allowed until submission for Direct Entry.
. Why Gain Admission via JUPEB (Benefits)
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Skip UTME stress—Proceed directly to 200 Level
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Faster track—Complete the route in about one year instead of retaking UTME
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Accepted widely across federal, state, and private universities in Nigeria
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Flexibly valid—JUPEB results are often valid for multiple academic sessions
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Academic foundation—A-Level knowledge boosts readiness for university courses
A note from a student on Reddit:
“JUPEB is a lifesaver… you go straight into 200 level and skip the stress of UTME.”
. How to Apply Through JUPEB – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
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Have at least five O-Level credits including relevant subjects
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Awaiting results accepted initially
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Prepare to choose three core subjects aligned to your intended course
Step 2: Select a JUPEB Centre
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Enrol at ABU Zaria or an accredited affiliate center
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Confirm timetable, tuition, and location
Step 3: Apply and Register
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Complete the JUPEB application form
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Pay registration fee (~₦15,000–₦30,000 depending on center)
Step 4: Study & Attend Lectures
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Engage in lectures and tutorials for about nine months
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Focus on mastering the three selected subjects and general English
Step 5: Sit for JUPEB Exams
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Complete final exams set by ABU at the end of the program
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Aim for strong grades—universities typically require 7–10 aggregate points
Step 6: Apply for JAMB Direct Entry
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Fill JAMB DE form after receiving your JUPEB certificate
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Upload O-Level and JUPEB results, select university and course
Step 7: Attend University Screening
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Some universities conduct post-DE screening or interviews
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Prepare academically and be prompt
Step 8: Accept Admission Offer
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Watch your JAMB CAPS dashboard regularly
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Accept offer immediately when released, then proceed to school clearance
. List of Universities That Accept JUPEB Results (2025/2026)
Federal Universities
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ABU (Zaria)
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UNILAG, UNILORIN, UNIBEN, UNICAL, UNIMAID
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FUTA, FUTMINNA, MAUTECH, FUPRE
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FUDMA, FUD, FUOYE, FUWUKARI
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NOUN (National Open University of Nigeria)
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UNIZIK, UNIABUJA, UNIJOS, UDUSOK
State Universities
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ABSU, AAUA, ADEYEMI, ANSU, BASUG, BSU
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COOU, CRUTECH, DELSU, EBSU, EKSU, ESUT
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IMSU, LASU, NSUK, OOU, RSU
Babcock University, Covenant University, ABUAD
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ABUAD, Adeleke, Babcock
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Baptiste Theological College (affiliated)
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Baze University, Benue Baptist University
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Lead City, Madonna, Pan‑Atlantic
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Redeemer’s, American University of Nigeria (AUN)
. Comparing Pathways: JUPEB vs Alternatives
| Pathway | Entry Level | Duration | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUPEB + DE | 200 Level | ~1 year | Fast-track, no UTME needed |
| IJMB + DE | 200 Level | ~1 year | ABU-specific A-Level |
| Pre-degree | 100 Level | ~1 year | Foundation program |
| NOUN | 100 Level | Flexible | Distance learners |
| Diploma → DE | 200 Level | 2–4 years total | Polytechnic grads |
. Real-Life Example
Meet Chidinma: She scored low on UTME, enrolled in JUPEB with Biology, Chemistry, Physics studies. After excelling, she applied via DE and got admitted into 200-level Biochemistry at UNILAG.
. Pros and Cons of JUPEB Route
Pros
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Fast 200-level entry
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Avoid UTME stress
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Broad university acceptance
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Strong course preparation
Cons
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Must finance one-year program + DE fees
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Needs strong academic discipline
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Competitive DE requirements remain
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Limited to three subject areas
. Summary Table: JUPEB Admission Overview
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | 5 O-Level passes including relevant subjects |
| Apply | At ABU or affiliate center |
| Study & Prepare | Attend lectures and mock sessions |
| Exam | Sit for JUPEB final exams |
| DE Application | Upload results and apply via JAMB |
| Screening | Attend university DE screening |
| Admission | Accept offer and clear admission |
| Start 200 Level | Begin regular university studies |
. Frequently Asked Questions (10+)
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Do all universities accept JUPEB?
Most do—see the list above for examples. -
Can I use awaiting O-Level results?
Yes—submit when they become available. -
How long is JUPEB valid?
Typically up to three years for DE application. -
What grade do I need?
Usually 7–10 aggregate points depending on course and school. -
Is JUPEB recognized for NYSC?
Yes—graduates from DE entry can go for NYSC. -
Is JUPEB cheaper than retaking UTME?
Depends—but gives a faster, often more reliable route. -
How many subjects do I study?
Three A-Level subjects + English. -
Is screening required?
Yes—most universities conduct DE screening. -
Can I use JUPEB for Medicine?
Yes—with strong scores and appropriate subjects. -
Where can I study JUPEB?
At ABU Zaria or accredited affiliate centers. -
Is private university via JUPEB expensive?
Yes—private institutions cost more but offer fast entry. -
Should I sleep during my JUPEB year?
No—stay active in classes and revision for best results.
. Conclusion
JUPEB is a powerful, approved route to gain admission into 200-level at many Nigerian universities while avoiding JAMB UTME. If you study smart, pick your subjects well, and perform strongly, you can begin your university journey quicker and more confidently.