How to Gain Admission Without JAMB in Nigeria (2026/2027)

In Nigeria, there are actually several genuine ways to gain admission into higher institutions without writing JAMB.

Maybe you spent months preparing for JAMB but ended up with a score below your preferred school’s cut‑off mark. Or perhaps one issue or another stopped you from writing the exam at all.

Does that mean your dream of going to the university is over? The answer is no.

In this post, you’ll learn how to gain admission without JAMB in Nigeria. We’ll explain 7 proven methods that allow you to enter universities and other higher institutions without going through JAMB, including how to apply, the requirements involved, tuition fees, and other important details.

Whether you’re a secondary school graduate, a parent, a working professional looking to further your education, or someone who simply wants to avoid the stress that comes with JAMB, this guide is for you. Make sure you read to the end, you’ll learn a lot. Let’s begin.

Is JAMB Compulsory for University in Nigeria?

Before we dive deeper, it’s important to understand JAMB’s actual role in university admissions and whether it’s truly mandatory:

While JAMB is the most popular route for gaining admission into Nigerian universities, it is not legally required for every program.

According to the Tertiary Education Act, Nigerian universities can offer multiple entry pathways, meaning there are legitimate alternatives to entering higher institutions without writing JAMB.

In short: JAMB is common, but it’s not compulsory for all universities or programs in Nigeria.

Can Schools give admission without Jamb approval?

The answer is a resounding yes. Many do. The fact is that:

a. Approximately 18% of university admissions occur through non-JAMB channels.

b. Over 50 institutions offer alternative admission programs

c. Private Universities account for 62% of non-JAMB admissions.

Why Most Students Don’t Know About These Options maybe because of:

a. Lack of public awareness campaigns on how to gain admission without Jamb in Nigeria.

b. Schools often don’t actively promote alternatives.

c. Cultural fixation on the “traditional” JAMB route, etc.

So it’s possible to gain admission in Nigeria Universities without meeting your Jamb Cut-Off or even taking jamb exam.

Ways to Gain Admission without Jamb in Nigeria?

Here are the tested and proven pathways on how to gain admission without Jamb in Nigeria:

1. Direct Entry (DE).

This is the number one legal way to gain admitted into any University of your choice in Nigeria without Jamb.

Direct Entry allows students with certain qualifications to enter University at 200 Level, completely bypassing 100 Level and the JAMB requirement.

See Eligible Candidates who can gain admission into the University with Direct Entry:

– Holders of National Diploma (ND) with upper credit

– Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates

– Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) holders

– Advanced Level (A’Level) certificate holders

– IJMB/JUPEB graduates.

So it simply means if you meet any of these eligibility criteria, you can apply for Direct Entry and gain admission without Jamb in Nigeria.

How to apply? 

1. First obtain JAMB Direct Entry form. Visit Jamb official website

2. Submit your academic credentials for verification

3. Receive admission offer

4. Begin at 200 Level

Note that all federal and State Universities accept DE, including:

• University of Lagos (UNILAG).

• University of Ibadan (UI).

• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), and more.

Success Rate: 85% for qualified applicants

Duration Saved: 1 academic year

Cost: ₦3,500 for DE form + school fees

2. IJMB Pathway

Another proven way to gain admission without Jamb in Nigeria is via the Federal University Alternative(IJMB)

The Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB) is a one-year advanced level program that serves as a direct JAMB replacement.

IJMB route is accredited by over 50 Universities, conducted at approved study centers nationwide, and leads to 200 Level admission

Subject Combinations to get in:

a. Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics

b. Arts: Government, Literature, Economics

c. Social Sciences: Economics, Geography, Government

Its Grading System:

A = 5 points

B = 4 points

C = 3 points

D = 2 points

E = 1 point

IJMB Admission Requirements:

• 5 O’Level credits including English and Mathematics
• Minimum age of 16 years.

Here are top IJMB Centers to register:

– ABU Zaria IJMB Centre

– UNILAG School of Foundation Studies.

– BOWEN University IJMB Programme.

Annual Cost of IJMB: ₦150,000 – ₦300,000 (including accommodation).

You can visit IJMB Headquarters Website

3. JUPEB – The State University Option

The Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB) is similar to IJMB but more popular in State Universities, hence another route to gain admission without Jamb in Nigeria.

Universities that accept JUPEB:

1. University of Lagos (UNILAG)

2. University of Benin (UNIBEN)

3. Lagos State University (LASU)

4. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)

JUPEB Application Timeline:

1. Registration is usually around October to January.

2. Lectures start from January to June.

3. Exams are taken between July to August.

4. Finally results come out September.

4. Pre-Degree Programs

Here is one of the surest routes schools give admission without Jamb approval.

Pre-Degree Program Structure:

a. 9-12 months duration

b. University-supervised curriculum.

c. Direct transition to degree program.

Top Pre-Degree Programs in Nigeria:

1. UNILAG Foundation Programme.

2. OAU Pre-Degree School.

3. UNIBEN Basic Studies.

4. UNIPORT School of Basic Studies.

Admission Requirements for Pre-Degree Programs in Nigeria:

– 5 O’Level credits (can include pending results)

– Minimum score in program entrance exam

– Age requirement (varies by school)

5. NABTEB A’Level

Though NABTEB has been there since time immemorial, it’s an underrated option for many students.

Why should you consider NABTEB?

• Cheaper than IJMB/JUPEB.
• Wider subject combinations.
• Accepted by technical Universities.

Available Subjects for NABTEB:

– 35 science/technical subjects

– 22 arts/social science subjects

– 10 vocational subjects.

Its Grading System:

Distinction: A1 – B3

Credit: C4 – C6

Pass: D7 – E8

NABTEB Registration Process:

1. Visit any NABTEB accredited center.

2. Choose 3 A’Level subjects.

3. Pay ₦15,000 registration fee.

4. Attend lectures for 8 months.

5. Write final exams.

Accepting Institutions for NABTEB Registration:

a. Federal University of Technology, Minna

b. Yaba College of Technology

c. Kaduna Polytechnic

6. Part-Time/Sandwich Programs.

This is another working student’s solution on how to gain admission without Jamb in Nigeria, however lots of parents and students don’t know about it.

3 Benefits of Part-time Programs:

– No JAMB requirement

– Evening/weekend classes

– Same certificate as full-time

Top Programs for Part-time:

1. NOUN (National Open University)

2. UNILAG Part-Time Degree

3. UI Sandwich Program

4. UNN Centre for Distance Learning

Admission Requirements for Part-time Programs in Nigeria:

– O’Level credits

– Work experience (for some programs)

– Program-specific entrance exam

Duration of Part-time Programs:

• Average 5 years for 4-year courses
• Can extend up to 7 years

Cost Advantage:

• 40-60% cheaper than regular programs
• Payper course in some Institutions

7. Private University Direct Entry.

The last proven option on how to gain admission without Jamb in Nigeria is via Private University Direct Entry.

I call it the stress-free alternative because it has easy admission policies, multiple intake periods yearly, smaller class sizes.

Admission Requirements for Private University Direct Entry:

Although this differs by institutions, it’s mostly the same:

a. 5 O’Level credits

b. School’s entrance exam

c. Interview (for some courses)

Private University Direct Entry Top Choices To Try:

1. Covenant University

2. Babcock University

3. Bowen University

4. Afe Babalola University

5. Bells University

Any Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities for These Programs?

Yes, many Private Universities offer academic scholarships (up to 100%), sports scholarships, and need-based financial aid.

Government Scholarships:

1. BEA Scholarship: For students in JUPEB/Pre-degree programs

2. State Government Schemes: Many states sponsor indigenes in alternative programs

Institutional Scholarships:

1. Covenant University: Up to 100% for outstanding students

2. Babcock University: 50% scholarships for clergy children

3. Afe Babalola University: Merit-based awards

Private Sponsorships:

– MTN Foundation

– NNPC/Chevron Scholarship

– Shell SPDC Scholarship

How to Choose the Best Non-JAMB Admission Pathway.

Now that you know all the options to get admission in Nigeria Universities without Jamb, how do you decide which one is right for you?

Check out these steps below:

Step 1: Assess Your Current Qualifications.

a. Do you have OND/HND/NCE? Go for Direct Entry

b. Just completed secondary school? Go for IJMB/JUPEB/Pre-degree

c. Working full-time? Choose Part-time/NOUN program.

d. Can afford higher fees? Go for Private university.

Step 2: Consider Your Desired Course

1. Competitive courses (Medicine, Law): Private universities or Pre-degree

2. Technical courses: NABTEB A’Level

3. Regular courses: Any pathway works.

Step 3: Evaluate Your Budget

•  Low budget: NABTEB (₦50k-₦150k).

• Medium budget: IJMB/JUPEB (₦120k-₦300k).

• Higher budget: Private universities (₦500k+ annually)

Step 4: Timeline Considerations

If you want to start quickly? Private universities have multiple intakes.

Then if you can wait 1 year? IJMB/JUPEB/Pre-degree is best for you.

If busy with other things and  need maximum flexibility? Try NOUN part-time

Tips for Success on How to Gain Admission Without JAMB in Nigeria.

1. Start Early: Some programs have limited slots.

2. Verify Accreditation: Ensure you only use approved centers

3. Financial Planning: Try installment options for these programs.

4. Backup Plans: Apply to multiple programs

5. Documentation: Keep all your certificates ready to avoid delay when given admission.

6. Prepare for Exams: Alternative programs have entrance tests too, so you have to prepare beforehand.

7. Network: Connect with past students of your chosen program or try getting passed questions

Common Pitfalls to Avoid when applying for any of these programs.

1. Fake Centers: Only enroll in university-approved programs. Check out their websites to ensure they’re authentic before you apply.

2. Expired Results: Some qualifications have validity periods

3. Hidden Costs: Ask about all fees upfront before you go ahead.

4. Recognition Issues: Confirm your program is accepted where you want to go

5. Time Wasters: Avoid programs without clear transition plans.

How to Avoid Admission Scams for Non-JAMB Admission Pathways. 

Here are some of the red flags to watch out for:

1. “Guaranteed admission” promises

2. Programs not listed on official university websites

3. Requests for payment to personal accounts

4. Lack of physical office address

5. Pressure to make quick payments

Verification Steps:

1. Cross-check with NUC website

2. Visit the University admissions office physically.

3. Speak with current students in the program.

4. Confirm accreditation with regulatory bodies.

5. Avoid middlemen. Deal directly with institutions.

FAQs on how to Gain Admission without JAMB in Nigeria

Q1. Are these alternatives legally recognized?

Yes. All pathways mentioned here are approved by NUC and the Federal Ministry of Education.

Q2. Can I use these methods to study Medicine or Law?

Most alternatives work for all courses except Medicine/Dentistry at Federal Universities. Private Universities may be more flexible.

Q3. Do employers discriminate against non-JAMB graduates?

No. Your degree certificate doesn’t indicate your admission route.

Q4. Can I switch Universities after completing IJMB/JUPEB?

Yes, but only to partner Institutions. Check your program’s articulation agreements.

Q5. What’s the easiest pathway with the highest success rate?

Pre-degree programs mostly have 90%+ admission rates for students who pass.

In Summary

So now you see, whether you go through JAMB or take an alternative route, gaining admission into a Nigerian university is possible.

This guide has shown you that JAMB is just one of many entry points. You can also explore Direct Entry, IJMB, private universities, or other recognized pathways—all of which can lead to a legitimate university degree.

The key is to pick the path that fits your qualifications, budget, and career goals. Remember, many successful professionals never wrote JAMB. What truly matters is your commitment, focus, and determination to succeed.

So take action today: research your options, choose a program that matches your interest, and start preparing.

If you found this helpful, share it with friends and family who might benefit. Let’s spread awareness about these valid alternatives to JAMB and help others achieve their academic dreams.