Learn how to do change of course on the JAMB portal, the requirements involved, mistakes to avoid, and how long it takes to reflect on JAMB CAPS.
Every year, many students realize that their JAMB score is not enough for the course or school they initially chose. Others later decide that they prefer a different institution or programme.
The good news is that JAMB allows candidates to make corrections through Change of Course or Change of Institution.
In this guide, I’ll explain how to do change of course or institution on the JAMB portal, the correct steps to follow, how long it takes to reflect on CAPS, and common mistakes students should avoid.
What Is JAMB Change of Course or Institution?
Change of Course
This simply means changing the course you initially chose to a different one.
For instance, switching from Medicine to Nursing, or from Law to Political Science.
Change of Institution
This means changing from one school to another.
For example, moving from UNILAG to LASU or from UNN to a polytechnic.
Why JAMB Allows These Changes
- To help students with low JAMB scores choose schools they can actually enter
- To give students a second chance if they made mistakes during registration
- To allow students apply for schools that are still selling forms
- To adjust choices based on new cut-off marks or admission news
Requirements for Doing Change of Course or Institution
You need a JAMB profile
This is the email and password you used during registration.
You must know your correct details
Your JAMB registration number, exam year, and current choices.
You must have an idea of your new school requirements
Your new course must match your JAMB subjects and O’level subjects.
You need to pay the JAMB correction fee
JAMB collects a small fee for every change you make.
How to Do Change of Course on JAMB Portal
Below are the easiest way to do change of course or institution on the Jamb portal:
Step 1: Visit a JAMB Accredited CBT Centre
You cannot do this correction on your phone.
Only CBT centres or JAMB offices can do it properly.
Step 2: Request for Change of Course/Institution
Tell the officer the exact changes you want to make.
Step 3: Make payment
JAMB normally charges a correction fee for this service.
Step 4: Fill in your new course or institution
Be sure you choose a course and school you truly qualify for.
Step 5: Confirm your details before submission
Your name, registration number, and course selection must be correct.
Step 6: Print your correction slip
This is proof that your change has been completed.
How Long Does It Take for the Changes to Reflect On JAMB CAPS?
After applying for change of course or institution on jamb portal, this is how long it takes to reflect on the Jamb portal:
Immediately to 48 hours
Most times, the change reflects instantly.
But in some cases, it may take up to 48 hours.
Why it may delay
- Network issues
- JAMB server updates
- Wrong information submitted
- High traffic during admission season
If it delays more than two(2) days, return to the CBT centre for help.
Mistakes Students Make During Change of Course or Institution
See also some mistakes applicants like you make during change of course or institution on the Jamb portal, so to avoid them:
1. Choosing a course they are NOT qualified for
Every course has its O’level and UTME subject requirements. Choosing wrongly will block your admission.
2. Not checking the school’s cut-off mark
If your score is far below the new school’s cut-off, admission will be almost impossible.
3. Doing change of course too late
Some schools close admission early. Doing it late reduces your chances.
4. Doing multiple changes
The more changes you make, the more errors may happen on your profile.
5. Using cafés instead of accredited centers
Cafés may make mistakes and JAMB may not correct them.
Who Should Do Change of Course?
- Students whose JAMB score is too low for their chosen course
- Students who failed key subjects in WAEC or NECO
- Students whose schools of choice did not release forms
- Students who want a backup plan to increase their chances
Best Times to Do Change of Course or Institution
The best time is:
- Immediately after JAMB releases results
- When your school announces new cut-off marks
- Before your chosen school sells post-UTME form
- When you realize your O’level cannot qualify you for the course
FAQs on How to Do Change of Course on Jamb Portal
Q1. Can I do change of course twice?
Yes, but you must pay each time. Only change when necessary.
Q2. Will my school know that I changed course?
Yes. Once JAMB updates your details, your new school will see it.
Q3. Can change of course affect my admission?
Yes, positively or negatively. If you choose a wrong course, it may block your admission.
Q4. Can I do change of institution after writing post-UTME?
It depends on the school. Some accept it, others do not.
Q5. Do I need to update my O’level after doing change of course?
If your new course requires different subjects, you must update them.
In Summary
Doing a change of course or institution on the JAMB portal is one of the smartest moves you can make when your original choices no longer work in your favour. Many students miss out on admission simply because they picked schools or courses their scores could not meet.
But with the clear guidance you’ve gotten here on how to do change of course on the JAMB portal, you should now know the right steps to take to secure admission into a university, polytechnic, or college.
In summary, make your corrections early, select courses you truly qualify for, and always use an accredited CBT centre.
If you follow the steps in this guide carefully, you’ll complete your change of course or institution smoothly and without errors.
