The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exam is a key requirement for university admission in Nigeria, but it can be a major obstacle for many students. Fortunately, several institutions offer alternative pathways to higher education without requiring JAMB scores.
This article explores various universities, polytechnics, and programs that provide opportunities for students who may not have taken or passed the JAMB exam.
Private Universities in Nigeria That Do Not Require JAMB
Private universities in Nigeria operate under their own admission policies, and many accept students without JAMB. Below are some private universities that offer direct entry admissions:
Pan-Atlantic University
Benson Idahosa University
Redeemers University
Bowen University
Ajayi Crowther University
Caleb University
Babcock University
Al-Hikmah University
Al-Qalam University
Covenant University
Bells University of Technology
Lead City University
Crawford University
Medical Schools in Nigeria Without JAMB
Medical schools are highly competitive, and students who do not pass JAMB may struggle to secure admission. However, some medical schools offer alternative routes:
Abia State University
Babcock University
Bingham University
Bowen University
Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University
Enugu State University of Science and Technology
Gregory University
Novena University
Madonna University, Okija
Polytechnics That Offer Admission Without JAMB
Many polytechnics in Nigeria provide admission opportunities without requiring JAMB scores. These institutions allow students to enroll through alternative methods:
Federal Polytechnic
Osun State Polytechnic, Iree
Osun State College of Technology
The Polytechnic, Ibadan
Oke Ogun Polytechnic
Ibarapa Polytechnic
Kwara State Polytechnic
Affordable Private Universities Without JAMB
For students seeking budget-friendly options, some private universities offer admissions without JAMB while maintaining relatively low tuition fees:
Oduduwa University
Ajayi Crowther University
Al-Hikmah University
Igbinedion University
Adeleke University
Lead City University
Caritas University
Veritas University
Paul University
South Western University
Alternative Admission Pathways Beyond JAMB
If you prefer to bypass JAMB entirely, here are some alternative routes to securing university admission:
Pre-Degree Programs
Pre-degree or foundation programs are one-year intensive courses designed to prepare students for university-level education. These programs benefit students who did not meet JAMB cut-off marks or require additional academic preparation.
National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
NOUN offers a flexible admission process that does not require JAMB. This open and distance-learning institution allows students to study from various locations across Nigeria.
Interim Joint Admission Matriculation Board (IJMB)
IJMB is a direct entry program that provides an alternative to JAMB. It lasts one to two years and is accepted by many universities, including:
Ekiti State University
Nnamdi Azikiwe University
University of Ilorin
Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB)
JUPEB is a recognized program that allows students to gain direct entry into 200-level university courses. It typically lasts one year, and candidates must have at least five O’Level credits to qualify.
Foreign Universities
Students who choose to study abroad are not required to take JAMB. Instead, they must meet other academic requirements, such as WAEC or GCE, and may need to take standardized tests like TOEFL, GMAT, or IELTS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Private Universities Require JAMB?
Most private universities in Nigeria do not require JAMB for admission. However, some specific programs within private institutions may still require JAMB scores.
Is JAMB Required for the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)?
No, NOUN does not require JAMB for admission. It is an open and distance-learning university that accepts students based on their qualifications rather than standardized entrance exams.
While JAMB remains the primary gateway to university education in Nigeria, several institutions and programs provide alternative admission routes. Whether through private universities, pre-degree programs, or open universities, students can explore multiple options to pursue higher education without JAMB.
