Best Admission Options in Nigeria Without Writing JAMB

Best Admission Options in Nigeria Without Writing JAMB

With the increasing competition, limited university slots and the unpredictability of JAMB outcomes, many candidates are now opting for alternative entry routes. These options are not only legitimate but also approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC), offering candidates flexible, affordable and faster access to higher education.

Whether you’re a fresh secondary school graduate, a working-class adult or someone who’s been frustrated by repeated JAMB failures, there are accessible programs that allow you to start or continue your academic journey without waiting for another JAMB season.

What makes these admission routes even more attractive is the range of choices available-from one-year pre-degree programs like JUPEB and IJMB to flexible part-time degrees and NOUN’s distance learning platform. These alternatives often come with their own academic calendar, less competition and a more personalized admission process.

Many universities across Nigeria now reserve slots specifically for these non-JAMB candidates and some even allow them to jump directly into 200 level. For students who are willing to take a proactive step, learning how to gain admission without JAMB in Nigeria is more than just a backup plan-it’s a strategic move toward educational success.

Before diving into the specific pathways, let’s understand the context. JAMB is Nigeria’s central entrance exam body for tertiary institutions. But not everyone finds success with it. Some challenges include:

• Repeated failure in JAMB despite preparation

• Poor JAMB score that doesn’t meet university cut-off marks

• Lack of access to adequate preparation tools or centers

• Delayed results and exam irregularities

These reasons have pushed many to explore legitimate alternatives. And that’s exactly what this article is all about-showing you how to gain admission without JAMB in Nigeria using real, proven methods.

Now, instead of waiting another year or getting discouraged, consider the options below.

1. Gain Admission Through JUPEB

The Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB) offers one of the most powerful platforms for students to gain admission without JAMB in Nigeria. Established and coordinated by the University of Lagos, this program enables direct entry admission into 200 level in various Nigerian universities.

How JUPEB Works

• Duration: 9 to 12 months
• Curriculum: Subjects related to your intended university course
• Result Validity: Up to 3 years
• Entry Level: Direct into 200 Level

Benefits of JUPEB

• No need for JAMB or UTME scores
• Recognized by most top Nigerian universities
• Flexible schedule and manageable workload

Popular Universities Accepting JUPEB

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
• University of Benin (UNIBEN)
• University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)

2. Opt for the IJMB Program

Another credible alternative for students searching how to gain admission without JAMB in Nigeria is the Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB) program. Initiated by Ahmadu Bello University, it is equivalent to JUPEB and similarly offers direct entry into 200 level.

Why IJMB is a Smart Choice

• Duration: One academic session (9-10 months)
• Acceptance: Over 80% of universities in Nigeria
• No age limit

List of Universities Accepting IJMB

• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
• Kaduna State University (KASU)
• Delta State University (DELSU)

Important Note: You must ensure your IJMB result is used within three years of issuance, as it loses validity afterward.

3. Leverage the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)

For students who want a flexible, recognized and JAMB-free route, NOUN is a perfect fit. The National Open University of Nigeria admits students without the need for JAMB and it caters especially to distance learners and working-class individuals.

Why Consider NOUN?

• Admission without UTME
• Study from any location in Nigeria
• Affordable tuition and flexible schedules

Available Courses at NOUN

• Law
• Computer Science
• Business Administration
• Education
• Mass Communication

Caveat: Although NOUN graduates can participate in NYSC, they must meet eligibility through part-time routes and degree-level qualifications.

4. Consider Private University Admission Without JAMB

Many accredited private universities in Nigeria offer admission without requiring JAMB. These institutions often conduct internal screening or accept alternative qualifications like IJMB, JUPEB or their own foundation programs.

Examples of Private Universities That Accept Alternatives

• Babcock University
• Covenant University
• Afe Babalola University
• Lead City University

What You Need

• 5 O’Level credits including English and Mathematics
• Participation in the university’s screening exercise

Cost Implication: Be prepared to pay higher tuition fees compared to public universities, but the admission process is faster and less competitive.

5. Use Pre-Degree/Foundation Programs

If you’re fresh out of secondary school and don’t want to sit for JAMB, foundation programs offer a viable path. These are usually 1-year preparatory courses that funnel directly into full-time undergraduate studies.

How They Work

• Conducted by specific universities
• Admission into 100 level after successful completion
• Internal exam and continuous assessment

Top Institutions Offering Foundation Programs

• University of Lagos Foundation Programme
• Obafemi Awolowo University Pre-Degree
• University of Ilorin Remedial Programme

Pros and Cons

• High success rate
• No JAMB requirement

• Limited to the university offering the program

6. Polytechnic HND Route (No JAMB Required)

Did you know that you can gain admission into polytechnics in Nigeria without JAMB? Some polytechnics allow ND admission through internal screening exams or direct applications.

Entry Steps

• Obtain the school’s application form
• Attend post-UTME/screening
• Submit O’Level results

Fast-Tracking With ND and HND After ND, you can proceed to HND and later use it for direct entry into university degree programs. This route bypasses JAMB at the initial stage.

Polytechnics That Accept Without JAMB

• YABATECH
• Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH)
• Federal Polytechnic Ilaro

7. Foreign or International Universities in Nigeria

Another growing option for those exploring how to gain admission without JAMB in Nigeria is enrolling in international-affiliated universities within the country.

Examples Include:

• African Leadership University (ALU)
• Nile University
• Pan-Atlantic University

These universities base admission on O’Level results and international exam scores like SAT or TOEFL and JAMB isn’t a criterion.

Is This a Good Route? Yes, especially for students aiming for a globally recognized degree while studying locally.

8. Online Degrees or Distant Learning Centres

Online learning is no longer a futuristic concept-it’s thriving in Nigeria. Universities now offer accredited online courses that do not require JAMB for entry.

Key Providers

• University of Ibadan DLC
• Obafemi Awolowo University CDL
• UNILAG Distance Learning

Why Choose This Route?

• Convenience
• Flexible schedule
• No UTME required

However, always verify that your chosen program is NUC-approved to ensure national recognition.

9. Direct Entry Through A’Level Certificates

Some students complete A’Level certifications like Cambridge, WAEC GCE or NABTEB A’Levels and then apply via Direct Entry. This skips the UTME path entirely.

Important Requirements

• Good grades in at least three A’Level subjects
• Minimum of 5 O’Level credits

Universities That Accept This Entry Most public and private universities allow it through JAMB Direct Entry form, but without sitting for UTME.

10. Diploma-to-Degree Upgrade Programs

Universities such as UNIBEN, UNILORIN and UNIPORT offer diploma programs that transition into full degree programs. These typically require no UTME and serve as internal pipelines to degree programs.

Why It Works

• In-house conversion
• Builds your academic record gradually
• Eliminates JAMB dependency

Step-by-Step Application for Each Route

JUPEB Admission Process (Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board)

Step 1: Choose a certified JUPEB study center.
Step 2: Fill out their online or physical application form.
Step 3: Pay the application fee (₦10,000 – ₦20,000).
Step 4: Submit required documents:

• WAEC/NECO results (minimum 5 credits)

• Passport photograph

• Birth certificate

• State of origin

Step 5: Begin lectures (usually around March/April).
Step 6: Write the final JUPEB exam and receive your result.
Step 7: Use the result to apply for 200-level admission into a JUPEB-affiliated university.

Top Schools That Accept JUPEB:

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)

• University of Ibadan (UI)

• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

• University of Benin (UNIBEN)

IJMB Application Process (Interim Joint Matriculation Board)

Step 1: Find an accredited IJMB center close to you.
Step 2: Register with a valid email and phone number.
Step 3: Pay the application fee (₦8,000 – ₦15,000).
Step 4: Submit:

• O’Level results (5 credits required)

• Passport photograph

• Age declaration

• Certificate of origin

Step 5: Attend lectures for 9–12 months.
Step 6: Sit for the IJMB exam and obtain your result.
Step 7: Apply for Direct Entry admission to 200-level in universities that accept IJMB.

Popular Schools That Accept IJMB:

• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

• Bayero University, Kano (BUK)

• University of Jos (UNIJOS)

• Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)

NOUN Application Process (National Open University of Nigeria)

Step 1: Visit the official NOUN portal: www.nouonline.net
Step 2: Click on “Apply for Admission.”
Step 3: Choose your preferred program (undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma).
Step 4: Fill in the required details.
Step 5: Pay the admission fee online (around ₦5,000).
Step 6: Upload all documents:

• WAEC/NECO results

• Birth certificate

• Passport photo

• Valid ID card

Step 7: Submit and wait for confirmation.
Step 8: Proceed with school fee payment and course registration.

Diploma & Pre-degree Program Registration

Step 1: Visit your chosen university’s website or physical admission office.
Step 2: Locate the “Diploma” or “Pre-degree” section under admissions.
Step 3: Apply online or purchase a form (₦5,000 – ₦15,000).
Step 4: Upload all required documents:

• WAEC/NECO results

• Birth certificate

• Certificate of origin

Step 5: Attend entrance exam or screening (if required).
Step 6: Get admission and start lectures.
Step 7: Upon successful completion, you’ll be absorbed into the 100 or 200 level degree program depending on the route.

Part-Time Degree Application

Step 1: Choose a university with part-time programs.
Step 2: Visit their part-time or distance learning portal.
Step 3: Apply and submit necessary documents:

• O’Level results

• Passport photo

• Birth certificate

Step 4: Pay application fees (₦10,000 – ₦20,000).
Step 5: Complete biometric capture or screening.
Step 6: Start classes (usually evenings or weekends).

Top Nigerian Universities Offering Part-Time Without JAMB:

• LASU (Lagos State University)

• UNIBEN (University of Benin)

• UNIPORT (University of Port Harcourt)

• ABU (Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria)

Private University Application Without JAMB

Step 1: Visit the university’s official website.
Step 2: Go to “Undergraduate Admissions.”
Step 3: Apply directly without JAMB by filling out the online form.
Step 4: Upload:

• WAEC/NECO results

• Passport photo

• Any available ID

Step 5: Pay application fee (₦5,000 – ₦25,000 depending on the school).
Step 6: Attend the internal test or screening.
Step 7: If successful, receive admission offer and start your studies.

Study Abroad Application Without JAMB

Step 1: Choose your country and institution (e.g., Ghana, Cyprus, Benin, Kenya).
Step 2: Apply through the school website or licensed agent.
Step 3: Upload documents:

• WAEC/NECO results

• International passport

• Passport photos

• Proof of funds (for visa)

Step 4: Pay application fees
Step 5: Receive admission letter
Step 6: Apply for student visa
Step 7: Travel and start schooling

Estimated Cost Breakdown of Each Admission Route

Note: These figures are estimates and vary by institution and location.

How to Choose the Right Route for You

Before deciding on the best alternative to JAMB:

• Evaluate Your Financial Resources: Private universities and foundation programs are costlier.
• Check Course Availability: Some programs only admit certain disciplines.
• Location and Accessibility: NOUN and online options may be better if you live far from urban centers.
• Target Career Goals: For professional careers (law, medicine, engineering), ensure the route is recognized by the relevant regulatory body.

The truth is simple: knowing how to gain admission without JAMB in Nigeria opens up doors that many students don’t even know exist. These pathways are not shortcuts; they are alternative systems designed for flexibility, inclusivity and opportunity. Whether you choose JUPEB, IJMB, NOUN, private universities or international affiliations, the key is to start now.

Don’t let one exam define your future. Empower yourself with these options and take control of your journey to higher education.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I gain admission into a federal university without JAMB?

Yes, several federal universities in Nigeria accept students through alternative routes such as JUPEB, IJMB, diploma programs and part-time admissions. These options allow entry into 100 or 200 level without writing JAMB.

Is JUPEB better than JAMB for gaining admission?

It depends on your goals. JUPEB offers direct entry into 200 level after a year-long program, whereas JAMB is a one-time exam for 100 level. If you’re looking for a more flexible and continuous assessment-based route, JUPEB is often preferred.

How long does it take to complete IJMB or JUPEB?

Both programs typically run for 9 to 12 months. After that, you can use your results to apply for 200-level admission into most universities in Nigeria.

Do I need to write JAMB after completing JUPEB or IJMB?

No. Once you have your JUPEB or IJMB result, you can apply for admission through Direct Entry without writing JAMB.

Are programs like JUPEB and IJMB officially recognized by NUC?

Yes, both JUPEB and IJMB are approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and accepted by over 70 Nigerian universities.

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

Yes, most students who gain admission through Direct Entry, Part-Time or even NOUN now qualify for NYSC, provided the institution and course are accredited and you meet all graduation requirements.

Is NOUN a real university and can I use its degree for jobs or NYSC?

NOUN is a federal university recognized by the NUC. While NYSC was once an issue, recent updates now allow NOUN graduates to participate in NYSC under certain conditions, especially if you’re below 30.

What are the risks of using fake JUPEB or IJMB centers?

Enrolling in a non-accredited center can lead to wasted time, invalid results and loss of money. Always confirm that the center is approved by the official JUPEB or IJMB board before paying any fees.

Can I apply for scholarships if I gained admission without JAMB?

Yes. Most scholarship bodies require excellent academic performance and do not mandate JAMB scores as a prerequisite.

How can I find the best admission route without JAMB based on my budget and location?

Your best option depends on your finances, preferred university and whether you’re aiming for full-time or flexible learning. JUPEB and IJMB work best if you’re targeting 200 level. NOUN and part-time are ideal for working-class or second-chance students. You can also consult official university websites or trusted educational agents.