After you complete programmes like ND, NCE, IJMB, JUPEB, and HND, the next plan is to continue at the university level for bachelors degree. But you are left with the question of which university will choose your qualification.
Though most institutions offer direct entry admission, certain schools have strict policies or limited acceptance. And choosing the wrong school can result to unsuccesfull application and even cost you admission.
Many institutions across Nigeria, either federal, state, or private universities, offer Direct Entry admission into 200; if you are qualified. In this guide, you will discover the universities that accept direct entry applicants and the qualifications required.
What Is Direct Entry Admission in Nigeria?
Direct Entry (DE) is an admission pathway that allows candidates with advanced academic qualifications to gain admission directly into the 200 level in Nigerian universities.
This admission route is coordinated by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board. Instead of starting from 100 level like UTME candidates, Direct Entry applicants begin their studies from the second year of their degree programme.
Direct Entry admission is designed to:
- Recognize previous academic achievements
- Reduce the duration of university education
- Provide a seamless transition from polytechnics, colleges of education, or A-level programmes into universities
Beyond the additional qualification, this pathway will significantly speed up your academic journey.
Who Is Eligible for Direct Entry Admission in 2026?
To apply to universities in Nigeria that accept direct entry applicants, you must hold post-secondary qualifications such as:
- OND / ND (Ordinary National Diploma
- HND (Higher National Diploma)
- NCE (Nigeria Certificate in Education)
- IJMB or JUPEB A-Level certificates
- University diploma or degree
- Cambridge A-Level or equivalent international qualification
If you have these qualifications, rather than writing UTME, just apply through the JAMB Direct Entry portal, submit your credentials, and undergo university screening processes to process your admission.
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Universities in Nigeria That Accept Direct Entry Applicants
Though thousands of Nigerian institutions offer undergraduate programs, not all of them accept direct entry into the 200 level.
Below, we will highlight top universities, including federal, state, and even private universities in Nigeria that accept Direct Entry candidates into various departments:
Federal Universities in Nigeria that Accept Direct Entry Applicants
Several federal universities accept Direct Entry applicants across different faculties and departments. Below are some of the most popular universities:
1. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
The University of Lagos accepts Direct Entry candidates into various 200-level undergraduate programmes. Eligible applicants must possess:
- A-Level qualifications (JUPEB, Cambridge, or IJMB)
- ND, HND, or NCE in relevant fields
- Five O-Level credits, including English and Mathematics
Aside from registering with JAMB, candidates are usually required to participate in a Direct Entry screening exercise conducted by the university.
2. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
The University of Ilorin is one of the most popular institutions for Direct Entry admission.
UNILORIN accepts applicants with:
- IJMB or JUPEB results
- ND or HND qualifications
- NCE certificates
For your admission to be processed, you must also participate in the UNILORIN pre-admission screening and ensure your credentials are uploaded on the JAMB CAPS portal.
3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
The Obafemi Awolowo University offers Direct Entry admission into several competitive courses, including Law and Medicine.
To be eligible for OAU direct entry admission, you must have:
- Minimum of Upper Credit in ND or HND
- A-Level qualifications such as JUPEB or IJMB
- Five O-Level credits in relevant subjects
For a better chance of admission, ensure you choose OAU as your first-choice institution.
4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria)
The Ahmadu Bello University accepts Direct Entry candidates into multiple faculties.
To be eligible for admission into ABU Zaria direct entry, you must have:
- A-Level passes (IJMB or Cambridge)
- ND or HND with at least Merit
- Relevant university diplomas
Candidates must also participate in the ABU Direct Entry screening process.
5. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
The Federal University of Technology, Akure, accepts Direct Entry candidates, particularly for science and engineering courses.
To be eligible, you must possess:
- Two A-Level passes in subjects like Mathematics, Physics, or Chemistry
- ND or HND with a minimum Upper Credit
- Five O-Level credits, including English and Mathematics
Additionally, must apply through the JAMB Direct Entry portal and complete the FUTA screening process.
6. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, admits Direct Entry candidates into programmes in Agriculture, Science, and Engineering
You must have Upper Credit in OND/HND or Credit in NCE alongside the required O’Level results.
7. University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)
The University of Abuja accepts Direct Entry applicants into various undergraduate programmes.
Accepted qualifications include:
- IJMB or JUPEB
- OND or HND
- NCE certificates
Candidates must register through JAMB and upload their credentials for screening.
8. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
The University of Benin offers Direct Entry admission across many faculties, including engineering, education, and social Sciences
To be eligible, you must possess:
- Two A-Level passes or equivalent qualifications
- Five O-Level credits
- Relevant ND, HND, or diploma certificates
Transcripts must also be submitted directly to the university registrar.
State Universities in Nigeria that Accept Direct Entry Applicants
Apart from federal universities, several state institutions also admit Direct Entry candidates. Here are some notable state universities in Nigeria that accept direct entry applicants:
9. Lagos State University (LASU)
The Lagos State University accepts Direct Entry candidates mainly through its internal programmes, such as:
- LASU Foundation (JUPEB)
- LASU Diploma programmes
However, NCE holders applying to the Faculty of Education may also be considered.
10. Ekiti State University (EKSU)
The Ekiti State University accepts Direct Entry candidates into several departments.
Requirements include:
- Five O-Level credits
- ND, HND, NCE, or JUPEB qualification
However, you must participate in the EKSU online screening exercise. Engineering programmes may require Upper Credit, while other courses may accept Lower Credit.
11. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
Another top state school in Nigeria, the Olabisi Onabanjo University, offers Direct Entry admission into various programmes.
Applicants must:
- Apply through the JAMB Direct Entry portal
- Possess relevant A-Level or diploma qualifications
Additionally, you must participate in the university screening exercise
12. Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT)
The Enugu State University of Science and Technology accepts Direct Entry applicants with:
- IJMB or JUPEB results
- ND or HND certificates
- Five O-Level credits
To be considered, you must upload credentials on JAMB CAPS and complete the ESUT screening process.
13. Delta State University, Abraka (DELSU)
The Delta State University, Abraka, offers Direct Entry admission into several faculties. As an applicant, you must:
- Apply through JAMB Direct Entry
- Possess ND, HND, or A-Level qualifications
And, you must fill out the DELSU screening form via the university’s website
14. Taraba State University (TASU)
The Taraba State University accepts Direct Entry applicants with qualifications such as:
- IJMB (minimum of 8 points)
- NCE certificates
- ND with Lower Credit
Applicants must participate in the TASU screening exercise after registration.
Private Universities in Nigeria That Accept Direct Entry Applicants
Many private universities in Nigeria also admit Direct Entry candidates. Some of them include:
- Covenant University
- Babcock University
- Bowen University
- Ajayi Crowther University
- Redeemer’s University
- Joseph Ayo Babalola University
- Lead City University
- Afe Babalola University
And the great thing is that private institutions often have more flexible admission policies, making them an attractive option for Direct Entry applicants.
General Requirements for Direct Entry Admission in Nigeria
To apply to universities in Nigeria that accept direct entry applicants, you must:
- Register through the JAMB Direct Entry portal
- Have at least five O-Level credits (including English and Mathematics)
- Hold a valid A-Level or diploma qualification
- Submit transcripts or academic records.
- Meet the departmental CGPA requirements
- Upload documents to JAMB CAPS
Once you meet these requirements, you have a high chance of securing admission.
Tips for a Successful Direct Entry Application
In Nigeria, direct entry admission is highly competitive, as institutions usually set limits on the number of candidates they will admit each year. But if you meet the requirements of your university and JAMB, you can stand out from other candidates. To stand out:
Start Your Application Early
Early preparation helps you gather transcripts, certificates, and other documents before deadlines.
Seek Academic Guidance
Consult academic advisors or mentors who understand the admission process. This way, you will be able to recognise your mistakes and solutions early on.
Prepare for Screening
Some universities conduct screening or aptitude tests, also known as Post UTME. It is best to study past questions and prepare in advance.
Strengthen Your Application
A strong academic record, good CGPA, and properly submitted documents will improve your chances significantly.So, you must be extra careful when you are registering on the JAMB portal.
If you possess post-secondary qualifications, direct entry is the best way to further your education without going to start over again.. Using the direct entry route to apply to these universities above, you can skip the 100 level and continue your degree faster.
Whether you are transitioning from a polytechnic, college of education, or A-level programme, there are many institutions ready to accommodate qualified candidates.
The most important steps are to choose the university you meet their requirements and complete the JAMB Direct Entry application on time
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