How to Apply for Direct Entry in Nigeria University 2025

Direct Entry (DE) offers a pathway for students with advanced qualifications to enter Nigerian universities at an advanced level, typically skipping the first year of undergraduate studies. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step explanation of the application process, from initial requirements to accepting your offer.

Understanding Direct Entry

Direct Entry is designed for candidates who possess qualifications exceeding the standard secondary school certificate. This includes:

• Ordinary National Diploma (OND)

• Higher National Diploma (HND)

• GCE Advanced Level, HSC, or Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française (DALF)

• International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma

• Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE)

• Interim Joint Matriculation Board Examination (IJMB) results

• Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB) results

• Relevant certifications from accredited professional bodies (e.g., ICAN)

Successfully securing DE admission allows you to enter directly into the 200 or 300 level of your chosen degree program.

The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Obtain the JAMB Direct Entry Form: This is the starting point. You can purchase the form online through the JAMB website or from designated JAMB offices and accredited banks nationwide.

2. JAMB Registration at an Accredited Centre: It’s crucial to complete your registration process at a recognized and accredited JAMB centre. This ensures your application is correctly captured in the JAMB system.

3. Create a JAMB Profile: Before filling out the form, create a personal profile on the JAMB portal. This will be your central account for managing your application.

   • Visit the JAMB website (www.jamb.gov.ng) and click the “Create e-Facility Account/Login” button.

   • Provide your personal details, including a valid email address and a secure password.

   • Verify your email address by clicking the link sent to your inbox.

   • Log in to your newly created JAMB profile.

4. Payment of Registration Fee: The current (as of this writing) registration fee for Direct Entry candidates is ₦3,500. Please confirm this on the official JAMB website as fees can change.

   • Log in to your JAMB profile and click the “Payment” button.

   • Select “Pay UTME/DE Registration Fee” from the menu.

   • Enter your JAMB registration number (if applicable) and submit.

   • Choose your preferred payment method: online payment (using your card) or bank payment.

   • If paying online, enter your card details securely. If opting for bank payment, print the payment slip and take it to a designated bank.

   • Upon successful payment, you will receive a confirmation message from JAMB. Store your payment slip safely as proof of payment. Note: Registration fees are non-refundable.

5. Fill Out the Application Form Accurately: Complete the online application form with meticulous attention to detail. Ensure all information provided – personal details, academic qualifications, and contact information – is accurate and up-to-date.

6. Submitting Academic Transcripts: Most universities require you to submit official academic transcripts directly from the issuing institution. Contact your previous school to request the transcript be sent to the admissions office of the university you are applying to. It’s crucial to have transcripts sent well before any deadlines.

7. O’Level Requirements: Ensure you meet the minimum O’Level requirements. Typically, this is five (5) credits in relevant subjects, obtained in no more than two sittings.

8. Check University-Specific Requirements: Each university has specific requirements for DE admission. Carefully review the requirements for your chosen program and university on their official website. This may include specific grades in your qualifying diploma or NCE, or required subjects at the O’Level.

9. Wait for Post-Direct Entry Screening: After applying through JAMB, await the announcement of the post-Direct Entry screening exercise by your chosen institution.

10. Prepare for Screening: The screening process may involve a written examination, an interview, or both. Prepare thoroughly for the screening by reviewing relevant materials and practicing potential interview questions.

11. Check Admission Status Regularly: After the screening, the university will release its admission list. Check your admission status regularly on the university’s admission portal.

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To apply for Direct Entry (DE) admission into a Nigerian university, here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Understand Direct Entry: Direct Entry is a mode of admission that allows students with qualifications beyond secondary school to gain admission directly into the 200 or 300 level of a university degree program.

2. Determine Eligibility: Direct entry admission is for applicants who already have a supplementary certificate in addition to their O’Level results. Common qualifications include:

   • Ordinary National Diploma (OND)

   • Higher National Diploma (HND)

   • GCE A Level, HSC, DALF Certificate

   • An acceptable Baccalaureate Certificate

   • NCE, IJMB, JUPEB

   • Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) or equivalents from accredited Polytechnics and colleges of education.

3. Purchase the JAMB Direct Entry Form: Obtain the JAMB Direct Entry form from JAMB offices or participating banks. This can be done online.

4. Register at a JAMB Accredited Centre: Visit any permitted JAMB registration center to register.

5. Create a JAMB Profile: Each applicant must create a JAMB profile on the JAMB portal.

6. Fill the Form Online: Complete the form online.

7. Submit your certificate to JAMB office: Submit your certificate to a JAMB office. Without submitting your direct entry form, JAMB will not process your admission.

8. O’Level Requirements: Have a minimum of 5 GCE/WASCE credits at not more than 2 sittings.

9. Check University-Specific Requirements: Check the specific requirements of your chosen university, as some may require you to submit academic transcripts.

10. Screening and Admission List: After applying through JAMB, wait for your chosen institution to announce its post-Direct Entry screening. Pass the screening and wait for the direct entry admission list.

Keep in mind that the JAMB Direct Entry fee for the 2025/2026 session is N3,500.

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After Submission: Key Steps and Considerations

1. Checking Application Status: Monitor your application status regularly through the university’s admission portal, using your application number and password. This helps you stay informed of any updates or deadlines.

2. Post-UTME and Admission Screening: Prepare diligently for the post-UTME and admission screening process. Familiarize yourself with past questions (if available) and practice interview techniques.

3. Accepting the Offer: If you receive an admission offer, you will receive an admission letter from the university. Carefully review the letter for important information, such as the program you’ve been admitted to, the academic year, and the entry level. Address any discrepancies with the university immediately.

4. Registration and Enrollment: Accept the offer and complete the registration and enrollment process. This includes paying an acceptance fee and submitting required documentation (admission letter, birth certificate, academic transcripts, etc.). After registration, you will be officially enrolled and can attend classes.

Additional Information

• Direct Entry for Foreign Qualifications: If you possess foreign qualifications, you must obtain an evaluation of your credentials from the Federal Ministry of Education before applying. This evaluation determines the equivalence of your qualifications to Nigerian standards. You will need to submit your original academic transcripts, photocopies of your certificates, a letter of introduction from your institution (if applicable), and a processing fee to the Ministry. The resulting letter of equivalence is crucial for your DE application.