Getting admission into a Nigerian tertiary institution can be exciting but also challenging if you don’t understand the process. From sitting for required exams to meeting admission criteria, every step matters. This 2025 guide explains the Nigerian admission process in detail to help you navigate it smoothly.
1. Choose Your Preferred Institution and Course
The first step in securing admission is deciding on the university, polytechnic, or college of education you want to attend, along with your preferred course of study.
Tips for choosing wisely:
-
Consider your strengths, passion, and career goals.
-
Check the school’s admission requirements for your course.
-
Look into the school’s reputation and accreditation status.
2. Sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME)
The UTME is conducted annually by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and is compulsory for all prospective undergraduates in Nigeria.
Steps to take:
-
Register for the UTME through accredited JAMB CBT centers.
-
Choose your preferred institution during registration.
-
Prepare adequately using recommended past questions and syllabuses.
Note: Some institutions may also require candidates to sit for a Post-UTME screening exam after UTME.
3. Meet the Cut-off Mark
Every school has its own minimum UTME score requirement, known as the cut-off mark.
-
General Cut-off: JAMB usually sets a minimum benchmark (e.g., 140 for universities, 100 for polytechnics).
-
Departmental Cut-off: This varies depending on the course’s competitiveness.
For example, Medicine or Law will typically have higher cut-off marks than courses like History or Agriculture.
4. Participate in Post-UTME Screening
After meeting the UTME cut-off mark, most institutions will require you to undergo a Post-UTME screening process. This could be:
-
A written test
-
An online aptitude test
-
Physical document verification
Documents you may need:
-
UTME result slip
-
O’Level results (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB)
-
Birth certificate
-
Local government identification
5. Ensure Your O’Level Results Are Complete
Most institutions require at least five credits in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics. These must be obtained in not more than two sittings.
If you’re awaiting results, you may still be considered for admission, but you must upload them to the JAMB CAPSportal before final admission.
6. Monitor Your JAMB CAPS
JAMB Central Admission Processing System (CAPS) is where you can track your admission status in real time.
How to check:
-
Visit the JAMB CAPS portal.
-
Login with your JAMB registration details.
-
Click on Check Admission Status.
-
Accept or reject the offer when it appears.
7. Accept Your Admission
Once your chosen institution offers you admission and it appears on JAMB CAPS, you must accept it online.
Failing to accept within the required time may result in the offer being withdrawn.
8. Pay Acceptance Fees
Every institution requires admitted students to pay a non-refundable acceptance fee to confirm their spot. This is usually followed by:
-
Medical screening
-
Clearance
-
Payment of school fees
9. Resume and Register for Your Courses
After completing all admission formalities, you can officially resume classes. You’ll be given access to your department’s timetable, course registration portal, and academic calendar.
Quick Tips for Success
-
Start early and prepare for exams in advance.
-
Keep track of all application deadlines.
-
Upload your O’Level results to the JAMB portal as soon as possible.
-
Regularly check both your school and JAMB portals for updates.
Conclusion
The Nigerian admission process in 2025 is straightforward if you understand each step and follow it carefully. From selecting your course to accepting your admission on JAMB CAPS, preparation is key. Stay updated on requirements, meet deadlines, and keep all necessary documents ready. With dedication and planning, your dream of gaining admission into a Nigerian institution will come true.
