How to Gain Admission into University Without JAMB in Nigeria

How to Gain Admission into University Without JAMB in Nigeria

Every year in Nigeria, thousands of students sit for JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) exams hoping to gain admission into the university. Sadly, many don’t get in. But what most people don’t know is that there are real ways to gain admission into Nigerian universities without JAMB. This article will show you how.

Whether you’ve failed JAMB, didn’t register for it, or just want an alternative path, you can still become a university student. 

Many Nigerian students believe that if they don’t write or pass JAMB, their dream of attending university is over. This is not true. In fact, over the years, several recognized and legitimate alternatives have been introduced to help students gain admission without going through the pressure of UTME. These methods are not only legal but also approved by many Nigerian universities and education bodies.

So, if you’re asking yourself, “How can I gain admission into university without JAMB?” — this guide is for you. Read carefully, and you’ll discover options that could change your academic journey for the better.

What Is JAMB and Why Do People Want to Avoid It?

JAMB is the body in charge of university admissions in Nigeria. Most federal, state, and even some private universities rely on JAMB before admitting students.

However, JAMB has several issues:

• The exam is tough and stressful.

• Cut-off marks are often high.

• It delays academic progress for many students.

• Some candidates don’t get admission even after passing.

Because of all this, many young Nigerians now look for how to gain admission without JAMB in Nigeria.

READ ALSO: Best Ways to Pass JAMB Without Cheating 

Top 7 Ways: How to Gain Admission into Nigerian Universities Without JAMB

Let’s go straight into the best and most trusted options:

1. IJMB (Interim Joint Matriculation Board)

IJMB is one of the most popular alternatives to JAMB. It is an A-Level program that lasts for about 9-12 months. After completing IJMB, you can apply for direct entry admission into 200 level in many Nigerian universities.

How it works:

• You register and study at any approved IJMB center.

• After exams, you get a result.

• With your IJMB result, you apply for Direct Entry admission through JAMB (but without sitting for UTME).

• You start from 200 level, not 100.

Benefits:

• No need for JAMB UTME.

• Accepted by many universities.

• You save 1 year of university study.

Drawback: You still need to pass well to gain admission through Direct Entry.

2. JUPEB (Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board)

JUPEB is very similar to IJMB. It is run by the University of Lagos and accepted by many other universities in Nigeria.

JUPEB Details:

• Duration: 1 year

• Subjects: 3 or more depending on your desired course

• Admission: Direct Entry into 200 level

Advantages:

• Very reliable and widely accepted.

• You get into 200 level.

• No need for UTME exam.

Note: You will need to apply through Direct Entry after passing JUPEB.

3. Pre-degree / Remedial Programmes

Many universities offer pre-degree or remedial programmes. These programmes are for students who didn’t meet the required JAMB score or who didn’t take JAMB at all.

How it works:

• You apply directly to the university.

• Study for 6 to 9 months.

• Write internal exams.

• If you pass, the school admits you into 100 level.

Schools Offering This:

• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)

• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

• Delta State University (DELSU)

• Many others.

Good for: Students who missed or failed JAMB.

4. National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)

NOUN is Nigeria’s official open and distance learning university. The amazing part? You do not need JAMB to apply.

About NOUN:

• Offers full undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

• Study at your own pace (online and offline).

• Great for workers, mothers, and students who want flexibility.

• Accredited by NUC.

Application Process:

• Visit www.nou.edu.ng

• Register and pay your fees.

• No entrance exam required.

Disadvantage: NYSC for NOUN graduates used to be a problem, but that has been resolved. However, some traditional employers may not understand how NOUN works.

5. Private Universities (Direct Admission)

Some private universities in Nigeria admit students without JAMB. They do this by conducting internal screening or entrance exams.

How it works:

• You apply directly through the university website.

• Attend an interview or take their test.

• If you meet their requirements, you’re admitted.

Examples:

• Babcock University

• Lead City University

• Caleb University

• Madonna University

• Igbinedion University

Note: These universities are usually more expensive but offer quality education.

6. NABTEB A-Level

NABTEB (National Business and Technical Examinations Board) also runs A-Level programs like IJMB and JUPEB.

Why NABTEB A-Level?

• Accepted by some Nigerian universities.

• Helps students apply through Direct Entry.

Duration: 1 year
Start Level: 200 level

It is not as popular as IJMB or JUPEB but is growing in recognition.

7. Foreign or Affiliated Universities

Some Nigerian institutions are affiliated with foreign universities and offer international degrees locally. Many of them don’t require JAMB.

How it works:

• Apply directly to the affiliate school.

• Complete your studies in Nigeria or partly abroad.

• No UTME required.

Examples:

• Afe Babalola University (some programs)

• Nile University (Abuja)

• International Open University (Online Islamic university)

• Some UK-affiliated schools in Lagos or Abuja

Why Are These Alternatives to JAMB Gaining Popularity?

Here’s why students are now going this route:

• UTME failure rates are high.

• Admission slots are limited.

• Parents want faster results.

• Some students don’t want to “wait one more year.”

• Many of these programs lead directly to 200 level, saving time.

Important Things to Note

Before choosing any of these methods, consider the following:

1. Accreditation: Make sure the program is approved by relevant bodies (e.g. NUC).

2. Cost: Most JAMB alternatives are more expensive, especially private universities.

3. Recognition: Some employers may prefer traditional paths.

4. Discipline: A-Level programs require serious study habits.

How to Choose the Best Option for You

Ask yourself:

• Do I want to start from 100 or 200 level?

• Can I afford the fees?

• Do I want to study online or in-person?

• Am I willing to move to another city?

If you want to save time and get into 200 level fast, then IJMB or JUPEB may be your best bet. But if you want flexibility and don’t mind 100 level, NOUN or pre-degree might be perfect.

How to Gain Admission into University Without JAMB in Nigeria (Recap)

Let’s go over the main options again:

Admission Option	JAMB Required?	Admission Level	Duration	Cost
IJMB	No	200 Level	9–12 months	Medium
JUPEB	No	200 Level	9–12 months	Medium
Pre-Degree	No	100 Level	6–9 months	Low–Medium
NOUN	No	100 Level	Flexible	Low
Private Universities	No	100 Level	4 years	High
NABTEB A-Level	No	200 Level	1 year	Medium
Foreign-Affiliate Schools	No	Varies	Varies	High

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I get admission without JAMB in a federal university?

Yes, but mostly through pre-degree or Direct Entry options like JUPEB and IJMB. Some federal universities accept these.

2. Is NOUN a real university?

Yes. NOUN is approved by the Federal Government and regulated by the NUC. It offers real degrees.

3. Can I go for NYSC if I didn’t use JAMB?

Yes. As long as the school and program you used is accredited and you meet NYSC rules, you’ll be mobilized.

4. Which is better between JUPEB and IJMB?

Both are similar. JUPEB is more university-based while IJMB is older and more common in northern Nigeria. Choose based on location and available centers.

5. Is it expensive to gain admission without JAMB?

It depends. Some programs like private universities can be expensive, while others like pre-degree or NOUN are affordable.

Conclusion

Now you know that JAMB is not the only way to gain university admission in Nigeria. Whether through IJMB, JUPEB, NOUN, or private schools, you have options.

Don’t let one exam decide your future. With the right choice, you can still go to school, graduate, and build a great career, without writing JAMB.