Many Nigerian students face the challenge of passing the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) as a prerequisite for university admission. The pressure to meet the required cut-off marks can be overwhelming, often limiting opportunities for students who may excel in other academic areas but struggle with standardised testing. However, some institutions provide alternative pathways, allowing prospective students to gain admission without sitting for the exam. These universities offer direct entry, internal screening, and flexible learning options, ensuring that students from diverse academic backgrounds and personal circumstances have a chance to pursue higher education.
The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is a leading institution that does not require UTME for admission. While applicants may need to register with JAMB to formalise their admission, they are not mandated to take the exam. Established in 1983, NOUN operates as a federal distance-learning university, catering to individuals unable to attend conventional institutions. Madonna University, Nigeria’s first Catholic university, also offers admission without UTME. Instead, candidates must have at least five O’level credits, complete an internal screening process, and pass an entrance test or interview. The university has multiple campuses, each specialising in different faculties, including law, medicine, and engineering.
Flexible admission policies are expanding opportunities.
Another option is Pan-Atlantic University, which is a private institution that offers various programmes at diploma, postgraduate, and undergraduate levels. It does not require JAMB results or cut-off marks for admission. However, candidates must have at least five O’level credits in relevant subjects, register and pay the fees for the admission screening exercise, and pass a screening test or interview. With campuses in Lekki and Ibeju-Lekki, the university fosters a dynamic and entrepreneurial academic culture. Similarly, Lead City University provides alternative entry routes through qualifications such as IJMB, JUPEB, GCE ‘A’ Levels, OND, and NCE. JAMB scores are not required, and the institution offers both full-time and part-time study options to accommodate working professionals.
These universities reflect a shift towards flexible admission policies in Nigeria’s Higher Education sector. By providing alternative pathways, they address barriers posed by JAMB requirements and create opportunities for students who may not meet the traditional entry criteria. This approach benefits individuals who may have struggled with standardised testing, those who have been out of school for some time, and working professionals seeking to further their education. It also accommodates students with varying academic backgrounds, including those with diploma qualifications or A-level certificates.
More awareness Is needed for alternative admissions.
Despite these alternatives, the awareness of non-UTME admission pathways remains relatively low among prospective university applicants. Many students continue to rely solely on JAMB without exploring other viable options that may better suit their academic aspirations and personal circumstances. Universities offering flexible admissions could benefit from increased publicity to ensure that students are well informed about the opportunities available to them. In addition, policymakers and Education stakeholders could consider broadening the scope of non-traditional admission routes to further improve access to tertiary education.
Furthermore, the availability of distance learning and part-time study options ensures that higher education is not limited to those who can commit to full-time on-campus programmes. Institutions like NOUN and Lead City University cater to the diverse needs of students, allowing them to balance academic pursuits with work and personal responsibilities. As more universities adopt flexible admission policies, higher Education in Nigeria is becoming more inclusive, helping to bridge the gap between demand for university spaces and limited admission slots. Ultimately, these alternatives provide a lifeline for many aspiring students, ensuring that university education remains within reach regardless of their UTME performance.
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Altogether, expanding access to university education in Nigeria requires a very comprehensive approach that embraces both conventional and alternative pathways. While UTME remains the primary route for admissions, institutions that offer flexibility play a crucial role in ensuring that no qualified student is left behind. With continued advocacy, policy support, and awareness campaigns, these alternative pathways could significantly reshape Nigeria’s higher education landscape, offering more students the opportunity to achieve their academic and professional goals.