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Traditionally, Gaining admission into Nigerian universities often involves passing the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
However, several institutions offer alternative routes for prospective students who prefer to bypass the UTME.
Below are some universities providing such opportunities for the 2025/2026 academic session:
1. National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
NOUN offers distance learning programs and does not require candidates to sit for the UTME. Applicants may need to register with JAMB to formalize their admission and comply with national education requirements, but taking the JAMB exam itself is not necessary. Established in 1983, NOUN provides access to higher education for Nigerians unable to attend traditional universities.
2. Madonna University, Okija
As Nigeria’s first Catholic university, Madonna University admits students without UTME results or cut-off marks. Prospective students must have at least five O’Level credits in relevant subjects, register for the admission screening exercise, pay the required fees, and pass the screening test or interview. The university operates multiple campuses with faculties ranging from Management and Social Sciences to Medicine and Engineering.
3. Lead City University
Lead City University provides flexible admission options, allowing candidates to gain entry with qualifications such as GCE ‘A’ Levels, IJMB, JUPEB, NCE, or OND, without the need for UTME results. The university offers programs suitable for both young adolescents and working adults, with options for part-time and full-time study. Specialized faculties include Social Sciences & Entrepreneurial Studies, Information Technology and Applied Sciences, and Law.
4. Kaduna State University (KASU) – School of Basic and Remedial Studies
KASU’s College of Basic and Remedial Studies offers a nine-month program designed to prepare candidates for university admission. While students are expected to register and sit for the UTME during or after the program, this pathway provides an opportunity to strengthen their qualifications before taking the exam. The program aims to help students remedy O’Level deficiencies and prepare for UTME and Post-UTME examinations.
Alternative Admission Programs
Several advanced level programs offer pathways to university admission without the need for UTME such as:
- Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB): A nine-month program that enables successful candidates to secure direct admission into 200-level courses in Nigerian universities. Coordinated by Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, IJMB is recognized by the Nigeria University Commission (NUC) and JAMB as an A’Level program.
- Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB): An eight-month program that allows students to gain admission into 200-level courses in many Nigerian universities through direct entry. JUPEB is government-approved and widely accepted across the country.
These programs provide alternative routes for students to achieve their academic goals without relying solely on UTME scores.
Considerations
While these alternative pathways offer flexibility, it’s essential for prospective students to research and understand each institution’s specific admission requirements and processes. Staying informed about application deadlines and necessary qualifications will enhance the chances of securing admission through these routes.
