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Getting admission into a Nigerian university is highly competitive, and one key factor that determines your success is your aggregate score. This score is what most universities use to rank and select students for admission into various courses. Understanding how to calculate your aggregate score can help you know your chances of gaining admission and plan better.
In this guide, you’ll learn what an aggregate score is, how different universities calculate it, and how you can compute yours step-by-step.
What is an Aggregate Score?
An aggregate score is the total score a university uses to determine a candidate’s eligibility for admission. It usually combines:
- Your JAMB UTME score
- Your Post-UTME score (if applicable)
- Your O’Level results (WAEC/NECO grades)
Different universities use different formulas, and not all schools include all three components. Some only use JAMB and Post-UTME, while others consider O’Level performance as well.
General Methods of Calculating Aggregate Scores
There are three main methods used by Nigerian universities:
1. JAMB + Post-UTME (50:50 Ratio)
This is one of the most common methods. It uses a 50% contribution from JAMB and 50% from Post-UTME.
Formula:(JAMB Score ÷ 8) + (Post-UTME Score ÷ 2)
Example:
If your JAMB score is 240 and your Post-UTME score is 60,240 ÷ 8 = 3060 ÷ 2 = 30
Aggregate Score = 30 + 30 = 60
2. JAMB + O’Level + Post-UTME (30:20:50 Ratio)
Some schools like the University of Benin (UNIBEN) and University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) use a weighted average that includes your O’Level grades.
Formula:(JAMB ÷ 8) + (O’Level ÷ 10) + (Post-UTME ÷ 2)
For O’Level, A1 = 10, B2 = 9, B3 = 8, C4 = 7, C5 = 6, C6 = 5. The average of your five required subjects is taken.
Example:
- JAMB: 240
- O’Level Grades: A1, B3, B2, C5, C4 = (10+8+9+6+7)/5 = 8
- Post-UTME: 60
Now calculate:240 ÷ 8 = 308 ÷ 1 = 860 ÷ 2 = 30
Aggregate Score = 30 + 8 + 30 = 68
3. JAMB Only
Some institutions, especially polytechnics or private universities, may use only the JAMB score to determine eligibility.
Formula:JAMB Score ÷ 8
Example:
JAMB Score = 240Aggregate = 240 ÷ 8 = 30
University-Specific Aggregate Score Formulas
Here are examples of how some top Nigerian universities calculate aggregate scores:
| University | Method | Details |
|---|---|---|
| UNILAG | JAMB + Post-UTME (50:50) | No use of O’Level |
| UI | JAMB + Post-UTME | Requires high Post-UTME score |
| UNIBEN | JAMB + O’Level + Post-UTME (30:20:50) | All three components |
| UNN | JAMB + Post-UTME | Post-UTME has heavy weight |
| OAU | JAMB + Post-UTME | Uses high Post-UTME scores |
| UNILORIN | JAMB + O’Level + Post-UTME | Strong emphasis on all three |
| LASU | JAMB + O’Level | No Post-UTME, uses screening |
| AAU | JAMB + Post-UTME | Straightforward calculation |
| FUTA | JAMB + Post-UTME | 50:50 ratio |
| FUNAAB | JAMB + Post-UTME | Competitive for Agriculture and Engineering |
How to Convert WAEC/NECO Grades to Points
Most schools that use O’Level screening convert your grades to points:
| Grade | Point |
|---|---|
| A1 | 10 |
| B2 | 9 |
| B3 | 8 |
| C4 | 7 |
| C5 | 6 |
| C6 | 5 |
| D7/E8/F9 | 0 |
Use your five best required subjects for your course (e.g., for Engineering: Math, English, Physics, Chemistry, Further Math or Biology).
What if Your School Uses a Screening Method Instead?
Some universities like LASU and DELSU use a screening method that does not include any Post-UTME exam. Instead, they screen you based on:
- JAMB score
- O’Level grades
They assign points to both and rank students accordingly.
Example (LASU Style):
- JAMB Score ÷ 8 = JAMB Points
- O’Level Grades in 5 subjects are converted to points and added.
Tips to Improve Your Aggregate Score
- Score High in JAMB: Aim for 250+ to give yourself a good start.
- Prepare for Post-UTME: Many students ignore this but it makes a huge difference.
- Get Good WAEC/NECO Results: Even if it seems less important, some schools use it heavily.
- Choose the Right Course: Some courses are less competitive and easier to gain admission.
- Practice Past Questions: For both JAMB and Post-UTME, this helps you understand patterns.
- Apply to Multiple Schools: If possible, apply to schools with lower competition.
Conclusion
Knowing how to calculate your aggregate score can help you plan better and increase your chances of gaining admission into a Nigerian university. Always check the specific requirements and methods used by your chosen institution.
Whether you are using a 50:50 method or a screening system, aim for excellence in all components—JAMB, O’Level, and Post-UTME—to give yourself the best shot.
