Dreaming of a bachelor’s degree in Nigeria but don’t want to sit for the UTME exam? Good news: the Direct Entry (DE) admission route offers a smart and legitimate way to secure university admission—without writing JAMB UTME.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through how Direct Entry works, the qualifications accepted, the application process, required documents, and how to boost your chances of getting into top universities across Nigeria.
What Is Direct Entry Admission in Nigeria?
Direct Entry (DE) is a university admission pathway that allows candidates with advanced qualifications to enter a degree program at 200 level, bypassing the traditional UTME process.
It is handled by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and available only to students who already possess a diploma, NCE, IJMB, JUPEB, or equivalent.
Who Can Apply for Direct Entry in 2025?
To qualify for Direct Entry, you must possess one of the following qualifications:
| Qualification | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| OND (Ordinary National Diploma) | Upper Credit (or Merit) |
| HND (Higher National Diploma) | Lower Credit or above |
| NCE (Nigeria Certificate in Education) | Merit or Credit in Education course |
| JUPEB | Minimum of 5 points |
| IJMB | Minimum of 5 points |
| A-Level GCE | 2 passes in relevant subjects |
| First Degree | From a recognized institution |
| NABTEB Advanced | 2 A-level passes |
You must also have at least 5 O’level credits including English and Mathematics in not more than two sittings.
How to Apply for Direct Entry Admission in Nigeria (2025)
Step 1: Get an E-PIN for DE Registration
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Purchase a Direct Entry JAMB form from any accredited outlet (banks, online platforms, JAMB CBT centres).
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Cost: Around ₦3,500 + ₦500 for reading text + ₦700 service charge.
Step 2: Create JAMB Profile (If You Haven’t Already)
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Visit 👉 https://portal.jamb.gov.ng
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Register your email, phone number, and personal details
Step 3: Visit a CBT Centre to Complete Registration
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Go to a JAMB-accredited CBT centre
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Present your DE qualifications, O’level results, and passport photo
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They will scan and upload your credentials
Step 4: Choose Your Preferred Universities & Courses
You will select:
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First choice university
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Second choice (optional)
Make sure your chosen course matches your qualification.
Step 5: Submit and Print Your Acknowledgment Slip
This slip shows your registration number, choices, and confirmation of your details.
Top Nigerian Universities That Accept Direct Entry (2025)
Nearly all federal and state universities in Nigeria accept Direct Entry applicants. Top examples include:
| University | Popular DE Courses |
|---|---|
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | Law, Business, Engineering |
| University of Ibadan (UI) | Education, Medicine, Political Science |
| Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) | Agriculture, Pharmacy, Sociology |
| University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | Mass Comm, Economics, History |
| Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | Engineering, Public Admin, Linguistics |
| Lagos State University (LASU) | Law, Accounting, Marketing |
| UNIBEN, UNILORIN, FUTA, DELSU | Multiple DE-friendly programs |
Required Documents for DE Registration
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OND/NCE/IJMB/JUPEB/A-Level certificate or statement of result
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O’level result (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB)
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JAMB Direct Entry Registration Slip
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Birth certificate or declaration of age
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Local Government Identification Letter
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Recent passport photograph
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Change of Name/Affidavit (if applicable)
Tips to Boost Your Direct Entry Admission Chances
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Apply Early – Don’t wait till deadlines; universities have limited DE slots.
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Choose the Right Course – Your previous qualification must match the intended degree program.
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Target DE-Friendly Universities – Some schools like ABU and UNILORIN offer more DE slots than others.
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Prepare for Post-UTME (if required) – Some universities conduct screening or tests for DE candidates.
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Upload All Results on JAMB Portal – Your admission won’t be processed without complete documents.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Using “Awaiting Result” for OND/NCE in DE registration
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Not uploading all documents (especially O’level result)
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Picking a course unrelated to your previous qualification
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Registering with cyber cafés instead of accredited CBT centres
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Missing post-DE screening dates
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓Can I use ND Lower Credit for Direct Entry?
Some universities accept it, but Upper Credit or Merit is the general minimum.
❓Is Direct Entry better than JAMB UTME?
Not better or worse—it’s just a faster route for diploma/NCE holders to enter at 200 level.
❓Can I apply for Medicine through Direct Entry?
Yes, but it’s highly competitive and requires science-based A-levels like IJMB/JUPEB.
❓Can I gain admission without writing UTME?
Yes. Direct Entry does not require UTME, only a separate DE form and requirements.
❓Can I gain admission with two sittings in O’level?
Yes. Two sittings are allowed for most courses and universities.
Final Thoughts
Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree through Direct Entry in Nigeria is a smart move—especially if you’ve completed a diploma, NCE, or A-level program. It saves time, skips UTME, and gives you a head start into 200 level.
Just ensure you meet the qualifications, upload the right documents, and apply on time. With the right preparation, you can secure your spot in 2025.
