The Ultimate Guide to JAMB Direct Entry Requirements

JAMB Direct Entry (DE) is a program established by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to provide an alternative path for students seeking admission into Nigerian universities. This avenue allows candidates to bypass the conventional UTME process and directly secure admission into the second year (200 level) of a degree program, rather than starting from the first year like UTME candidates.

The JAMB Direct Entry program is accessible to individuals who possess specific qualifications such as A-level, IJMB, NCE, ND, HND, or an equivalent credential from a recognized institution. Additionally, candidates must attain a certain minimum grade or point level in these qualifications to qualify for application.

To initiate the JAMB Direct Entry application, candidates must acquire the application form from JAMB. They need to furnish their personal information, provide details about their qualifications, and indicate their preferred course of study. Additionally, submission of O’level results and transcripts from previous educational institutions is required.

Upon completing the application process, candidates are obligated to take the JAMB Direct Entry examination. This examination assesses their knowledge in the chosen field of study and typically encompasses subjects relevant to their chosen course.

Candidates who successfully pass the JAMB Direct Entry examination can then proceed to apply for admission into any Nigerian university that accepts direct entry candidates. However, meeting the university’s minimum admission criteria, including the cut-off mark for the selected course, is imperative. This program offers an alternative avenue for qualified candidates to embark on their higher education journey.

Read Also: JAMB Direct Entry

Eligibility Criteria for JAMB Direct Entry

JAMB Direct Entry (DE) is a program established by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in Nigeria. It offers an alternative pathway for students who wish to gain admission into Nigerian universities without following the traditional UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) process. Through Direct Entry, eligible candidates can secure admission directly into the second year (200 level) of a degree program, skipping the first year typically undertaken by UTME candidates.

The JAMB Direct Entry program is open to individuals holding specific qualifications such as A-level certificates, IJMB (Interim Joint Matriculation Board) results, NCE (National Certificate in Education), ND (National Diploma), HND (Higher National Diploma), or equivalent credentials from recognized institutions. Additionally, candidates must achieve a certain minimum grade or point level in these qualifications to qualify for application.

To initiate the JAMB Direct Entry application, candidates need to obtain the application form from JAMB. They are required to provide personal information, details about their qualifications, and indicate their desired course of study. Submission of O’level results and transcripts from previous educational institutions is also necessary.

Upon completing the application process, candidates are obliged to take the JAMB Direct Entry examination. This examination evaluates their knowledge in the chosen field of study and typically covers subjects relevant to the selected course.

Candidates who successfully pass the JAMB Direct Entry examination can proceed to apply for admission into Nigerian universities that accept direct entry candidates. However, meeting the minimum admission requirements of the chosen university, including the cut-off mark for the intended course, is crucial. The JAMB Direct Entry program provides an alternative route for eligible candidates to embark on their higher education journey at an advanced level.

Required Documents for JAMB Direct Entry

JAMB Direct Entry serves as a pathway for candidates holding a diploma, NCE (National Certificate in Education), or A-level certificate to secure admission into the second year of their chosen undergraduate program. To qualify, candidates must provide specific documents to verify their eligibility and meet admission criteria. Here are the necessary documents for JAMB Direct Entry:

1. Academic Qualifications: Candidates must present certified copies of their academic qualifications, including their diploma, NCE, or A-level certification. These documents must be verified by the issuing institution or examination body.

2. JAMB Direct Entry Form: Candidates are required to purchase and complete the JAMB Direct Entry form. This form collects personal details, academic qualifications, and other pertinent information essential for the admission process. The form can be obtained from designated banks or any JAMB office.

3. JAMB Result Slip: Candidates need to furnish their JAMB result slip, which displays their JAMB score—an important factor considered in the admission process. The JAMB result slip can be obtained from the JAMB website or any JAMB office.

4. O’ Level Result: Candidates must submit their O’ Level result, which encompasses results from WASSCE (West African Senior School Certificate Examination), GCE (General Certificate of Education), or NECO (National Examination Council). These results should be certified and validated by the respective examination body.

5. Birth Certificate or Age Declaration: Candidates are required to provide either their birth certificate or an age declaration document. This verifies their age and confirms their eligibility for admission.

6. Local Government Identification Letter: Candidates must supply a local government identification letter. This letter confirms their place of origin and assists in determining their eligibility for admission based on their state of origin and catchment area.

7. Passport Photograph: Candidates should provide a recent passport photograph meeting specific criteria. The photograph should be clear, feature a plain background, and be free from any obstructions.

By furnishing these essential documents, candidates can successfully complete the application process for JAMB Direct Entry and be on their way to gaining admission into the second year of their chosen undergraduate program.

Read Also: How To Understand JAMB Result

How to Apply for JAMB Direct Entry

To apply for JAMB Direct Entry, follow these steps:

Step 1: Check Eligibility Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, which usually includes having a minimum of Lower Credit in your National Diploma (ND), National Innovation Diploma (NID), or Higher National Diploma (HND) from a recognized institution in Nigeria. Confirm the recognition of your qualifications in the JAMB brochure.

Step 2: Obtain JAMB Direct Entry Form Purchase the JAMB Direct Entry form from any JAMB office nationwide or approved center. The cost of the form varies but is typically between N3,500 to N5,500.

Step 3: Create JAMB Profile If you don’t already have one, create a JAMB profile on the official JAMB website. Provide accurate personal details, an email address, and a password.

Step 4: Complete Application Form Log in to your JAMB profile and complete the Direct Entry form. Enter your personal information, educational history, and chosen course of study. Be meticulous in providing accurate details.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents Scan and upload clear copies of your academic qualifications, passport photograph, and signature. Ensure these files are in JPEG format and don’t exceed 20KB in size.

Step 6: Select Preferred Institution and Course Choose up to two institutions and courses of study to apply for. Make your selections carefully.

Step 7: Make Payment Use the Remita platform to pay the application fee. This platform accepts payments via ATM cards or Bank transfers.

Step 8: Print JAMB Direct Entry Form After completing the form, making payment, and verifying all information, print out the JAMB Direct Entry form. This document contains your personal information, chosen institution, course of study, and examination date.

By following these steps diligently, you can successfully apply for JAMB Direct Entry and advance toward securing admission into the second year of your desired undergraduate program.

Read Also: Jamb Accredited Centeres

JAMB Direct Entry Screening Exercise

The JAMB Direct Entry Screening Exercise is a process that allows candidates to gain admission into tertiary institutions in Nigeria without having to go through the usual JAMB UTME process. Here are the steps involved:

1. Create a profile on the JAMB website at www.jamb.org.ng
2. Obtain the Direct Entry registration form at an accredited JAMB registration centre or cybercafé.
3. Fill out the form correctly and provide accurate information.
4. Submit the form and print out the acknowledgement slip.
5. Pay a non-refundable fee of N3,500 for the registration process. Payment can be made online or at any accredited bank.

The screening exercise is usually held around the same time as the UTME screening exercise, which is typically in June or July. Candidates should check the JAMB website regularly for updates and announcements.

Candidates are required to present several documents during the screening exercise, including their JAMB Direct Entry registration slip, O’Level results, ND/HND or degree certificates, NYSC discharge certificate or exemption letter, birth certificate or age declaration, local government identification letter, and passport photographs. A complete list of requirements can be found on the JAMB website.

The screening exercise venue varies from institution to institution, so candidates should check the JAMB website or contact their chosen institution for the screening venue and date.

The JAMB Direct Entry Screening Exercise result is usually released a few weeks after the screening exercise, and candidates can check their results on the JAMB website using their registration number.

Read Also: Jamb Result Checker

List of Universities that Accept JAMB Direct Entry

There are many universities in Nigeria that accept JAMB Direct Entry. Here is a list of some of those universities:

University of Lagos

Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife

Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

University of Benin

University of Port Harcourt

University of Ibadan

Federal University of Technology, Akure

University of Nigeria, Nsukka

Federal University of Technology, Owerri

University of Jos

Bayero University, Kano

University of Abuja

Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta

University of Calabar

Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka

Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun

University of Ilorin

Federal University, Oye-Ekiti

Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto

Lagos State University

Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko

Federal University of Technology, Minna

University of Maiduguri

Federal University, Lokoja

Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola

Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island

Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike

Federal University, Ndufu-Alike Ikwo

Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi

Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti

Delta State University, Abraka

Benue State University, Makurdi

Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu

Federal University, Dutsin-Ma

Kogi State University, Anyigba

Imo State University, Owerri

Rivers State University, Port Harcourt

Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijebu-Ode

Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina

Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma

It’s important to note that this list is not comprehensive, and there may be other universities that also accept JAMB Direct Entry. If you are interested in applying for Direct Entry, it’s recommended that you check the JAMB website or contact your desired university for more information on admission requirements and eligibility.

Advantages of JAMB Direct Entry over UTME

In Nigeria, there are two ways for students to gain admission into tertiary institutions: UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) and Direct Entry. Although UTME is the most common option, Direct Entry is becoming more popular due to its many advantages over UTME. In this article, we will discuss the advantages of JAMB Direct Entry over UTME.

1. Saves Time: With JAMB Direct Entry, candidates can gain admission into the 200 or 300 level without going through the four-year undergraduate programme. This means that students can complete their degree programmes in a shorter time frame.

2. Less Competitive: Direct Entry is less competitive than UTME because fewer candidates apply for admission through this route. Therefore, candidates who apply for Direct Entry have a higher chance of gaining admission into their preferred institutions and courses.

3. Enables Career Switching: JAMB Direct Entry is ideal for students who want to switch careers or pursue a different course of study. Candidates with higher qualifications such as OND, HND, or Bachelor’s degree can apply for admission directly into the 200 or 300 level, depending on their qualifications.

4. More Mature Candidates: Candidates who apply for Direct Entry are usually more mature and focused on their studies than UTME candidates. This is because most Direct Entry candidates are graduates or have completed their OND or HND programmes. This means that they are more serious about their education and are less likely to engage in vices that can distract them from their studies.

5. Cost Effective: JAMB Direct Entry is cost-effective for candidates who have completed their OND or HND programmes. They do not need to spend money on JAMB registration, tutorials, and other expenses associated with UTME. They only need to apply directly to their preferred institutions.

6. Enables Access to More Institutions: Direct Entry candidates have access to a wider range of institutions and courses than UTME candidates. Direct Entry candidates can apply to both universities and polytechnics, while UTME candidates can only apply to universities.

7. Faster Admission Process: The admission process for Direct Entry is faster than that of UTME. Direct Entry candidates do not need to sit for any examination before gaining admission. They only need to meet the admission requirements of their preferred institutions.

Challenges of JAMB Direct Entry Applicants

The JAMB Direct Entry program presents certain challenges for students seeking admission into Nigerian universities. Here are some of the notable challenges that JAMB Direct Entry applicants may encounter:

1. Meeting Eligibility Criteria:
The eligibility criteria for JAMB Direct Entry require candidates to possess a National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent qualification with a minimum of Lower Credit, along with five (5) O’level credits in relevant subjects. Meeting these criteria can be a hurdle for students still in the process of completing their current program.

2. Limited Available Spaces:
Nigerian universities allocate a limited number of Direct Entry admission slots each year, leading to intense competition among applicants. This limited availability makes securing a place in a university through the Direct Entry program highly competitive and challenging.

3. Restricted Course Options:
Some universities do not offer specific courses, such as Medicine and Law, through the JAMB Direct Entry program. This limitation can restrict students’ choices and prevent them from pursuing their desired course of study.

4. Financial Constraints:
JAMB Direct Entry programs often come with higher tuition fees compared to regular entry programs. Since Direct Entry students begin at an advanced level, the associated costs can pose a financial burden, particularly for students without sufficient financial resources.

5. Difficulty in Changing Institutions:
JAMB Direct Entry candidates who wish to change their chosen institution after being granted admission may face difficulties. Institutions have limited Direct Entry admission slots, and changing institutions could mean forfeiting the offered slot. In some cases, candidates may need to reapply in the following year to switch institutions.

Navigating these challenges requires careful consideration and planning. Prospective JAMB Direct Entry applicants should thoroughly assess their eligibility, research available course options, plan for tuition expenses, and weigh the benefits and drawbacks before deciding to pursue this admission pathway.

Tips for Preparing for JAMB Direct Entry

If you’re planning to gain admission into a Nigerian university through Direct Entry, you need to pass the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Direct Entry Examination. This exam is specifically for candidates who have already obtained a diploma or degree from a polytechnic or university and wish to further their education. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the JAMB Direct Entry examination:

1. Familiarize yourself with the exam format: The JAMB Direct Entry examination consists of 100 questions in two sections, a General Paper and your chosen subject. You have 1 hour and 30 minutes to answer all the questions.

2. Create a study schedule: Make a schedule that works for you and allocate specific times for each topic. This will help you manage your time better and ensure that you cover all the necessary topics before the exam.

3. Practice past questions: Practicing past questions is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the JAMB Direct Entry examination. It gives you an idea of the type of questions you will face and helps you familiarize yourself with the exam format.

4. Use recommended textbooks: Make sure you use the textbooks recommended by JAMB for your chosen subject. If you’re not sure which textbooks to use, ask your lecturers or academic advisors.

5. Join a study group: Joining a study group is a great way to prepare for the JAMB Direct Entry examination. Studying with others can help you learn new things and reinforce what you already know. It also provides an opportunity to ask questions and get feedback from others.

6. Take mock exams: Taking mock exams is another effective way to prepare for the JAMB Direct Entry examination. It helps you assess your strengths and weaknesses and identify areas where you need improvement.

Stay focused and positive: Remember that the JAMB Direct Entry examination is just one step in your academic journey. Stay motivated and focused on your goals, and don’t let setbacks discourage you.

Read Also: Jamb Mock Exam

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about JAMB Direct Entry

Many candidates are confused about the requirements, procedures, and other important details of JAMB Direct Entry. Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about JAMB Direct Entry explained in simple terms:

What is JAMB Direct Entry?

JAMB Direct Entry is a program designed for candidates who have a higher qualification than the minimum requirement for admission into Nigerian universities. It allows such candidates to gain direct entry into the 200 level in their chosen university.

What are the requirements for JAMB Direct Entry?

To be eligible for JAMB Direct Entry, candidates must have either A-level results, OND/HND/NCE, or a degree from a recognized institution. Candidates must also possess the JAMB Direct Entry form and meet the requirements of their chosen university.

How do I apply for JAMB Direct Entry?

Candidates can purchase the Direct Entry form from any JAMB office or accredited centers, or buy it online via the JAMB portal. After purchasing the form, candidates should complete it online, providing their personal and academic details, as well as their choice of institution and course of study.

What is the cost of the JAMB Direct Entry form?

The cost of the JAMB Direct Entry form is N3,500.

Can I use the same JAMB registration number for UTME and Direct Entry?

No, candidates cannot use the same JAMB registration number for both UTME and Direct Entry. Candidates who have already registered for UTME can obtain a Direct Entry form and register with a different registration number.

Can I choose a different course of study for Direct Entry?

Yes, candidates can choose a different course of study for Direct Entry. However, the course must be related to their previous qualification.

When is the deadline for JAMB Direct Entry registration?

The deadline for JAMB Direct Entry registration varies from year to year. Candidates should visit the JAMB website or any accredited centre for information on the registration deadline.

How is Direct Entry admission determined?

Direct Entry admission is determined by the candidate’s performance in their previous qualification and the JAMB Direct Entry examination. The candidate’s chosen university also plays a significant role in the admission process.

Can I gain admission into any university with JAMB Direct Entry?

No, candidates can only gain admission into universities that accept Direct Entry candidates. Candidates are advised to check the list of universities that accept Direct Entry candidates before applying.

What is the difference between JAMB UTME and Direct Entry?

JAMB UTME is the regular examination for admission into Nigerian universities. It is taken by candidates who have just completed their secondary school education and wish to gain admission into the 100 level. Direct Entry, on the other hand, is for candidates who possess a higher qualification than the minimum requirement for admission into Nigerian universities. It allows such candidates to gain direct entry into the 200 level.

Can I apply for JAMB Direct Entry without registering for UTME?

Yes, candidates can apply for JAMB Direct Entry without registering for UTME. However, candidates who have not registered for UTME will not be able to gain admission into universities that only accept UTME candidates.

Do I need to write the JAMB Direct Entry examination?

Yes, candidates are required to write the JAMB Direct Entry examination. The examination is usually a computer-based test (CBT), and it is used to determine the candidate’s eligibility for admission into their chosen university.

How do I prepare for the JAMB Direct Entry examination?

To prepare for the JAMB Direct Entry examination, candidates should study their previous qualification’s syllabus and familiarize themselves with the JAMB Direct Entry examination syllabus. They can also obtain past questions and study materials from accredited centres or online platforms.