The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is the primary gateway for gaining admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. However, many students seek alternative ways to gain admission without writing JAMB, either due to low UTME scores or personal preferences. Fortunately, several legitimate pathways exist to secure admission into higher institutions without JAMB in the 2025/2026 academic session.

Alternative Ways to Gain Admission Without JAMB

1. Direct Entry (DE) Admission

If you have an existing qualification beyond SSCE, you can apply for Direct Entry (DE) admission instead of writing JAMB. This option allows candidates to gain admission directly into 200 level.

Eligibility for Direct Entry Admission:

• National Diploma (ND)
• National Certificate of Education (NCE)
• Higher National Diploma (HND)
• Interim Joint Matriculation Board Examination (IJMB)
• JUPEB (Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board)
• A-Level certificates

How to Apply for Direct Entry Admission:

1. Obtain the Direct Entry form from JAMB or the institution of choice.
2. Submit your academic credentials.
3. Await admission processing by the university.

2. IJMB (Interim Joint Matriculation Board) Programme

IJMB is a one-year advanced-level programme that allows students to gain direct admission into 200 level in Nigerian universities without writing JAMB.

How IJMB Works:

• It is a 9-12 months programme.
• Candidates study three subjects related to their desired course.
• After passing the final IJMB exams, students can use the results to apply for 200-level admission via Direct Entry.

How to Apply for IJMB:

1. Visit an accredited IJMB study centre or apply online.
2. Pay the registration fee and begin classes.
3. Sit for the final IJMB exams.
4. Apply to universities accepting IJMB for direct entry admission.

3. JUPEB (Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board) Programme

JUPEB is similar to IJMB and provides admission into 200-level after a one-year study. It is a diploma programme accepted by several universities in Nigeria.

Steps to Gain Admission Through JUPEB:

1. Apply for JUPEB in an accredited university or study centre.
2. Take classes in three subject combinations.
3. Write and pass the JUPEB exams.
4. Use your JUPEB result to apply for Direct Entry admission.

4. Pre-Degree/Foundation Programmes

Many universities offer pre-degree or foundation programmes that allow students to gain admission without JAMB. These are one-year intensive programmes designed to prepare students for undergraduate studies.

How to Apply for Pre-Degree Programmes:

1. Visit the official website of your preferred university.
2. Check for available pre-degree or foundation programmes.
3. Apply and complete the necessary coursework.
4. After successful completion, transition into 100 level at the university.

5. National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is a recognized institution that does not require JAMB for admission. It offers flexible learning programs for students who want to study at their own pace.

How to Apply for NOUN:

1. Visit www.nou.edu.ng.
2. Select your desired course and apply online.
3. Pay the necessary fees and complete the admission process.

6. Private Universities’ Admission Without JAMB

Some private universities in Nigeria offer direct admission without JAMB. However, students may need to meet other academic requirements such as O’Level credits.

How to Apply:

1. Visit the official website of the private university.
2. Check their admission requirements.
3. Apply and submit necessary credentials.
4. If accepted, proceed with tuition payment and registration.

7. Part-Time, Distance Learning, and Sandwich Programmes

Many universities and polytechnics offer part-time and distance learning programs that do not require JAMB. These options are great for working professionals or students who prefer flexible study schedules.

How to Apply:

1. Visit the university offering part-time or distance learning programmes.
2. Obtain and complete the admission form.
3. Provide O’Level results and other required documents.
4. Pay tuition fees and begin classes.

Conclusion

If you did not write JAMB or did not achieve a high UTME score, you still have multiple opportunities to gain admission in 2025/2026. Whether through IJMB, JUPEB, NOUN, or pre-degree programmes, there are legitimate alternatives to enter higher education without JAMB. Always verify the accreditation of institutions before applying to avoid scams.

Frequently Asked Questions -FAQs

In this section, I will provide you with FAQs and answers on “How to Gain Admission Without JAMB”. Keep on reading dear friend.

1. Can I gain admission into a Nigerian university without writing JAMB?

Yes, you can gain admission without JAMB through programs like IJMB, JUPEB, Direct Entry (DE), Pre-degree, NOUN, private universities, and part-time or distance learning programs.

2. What is the easiest way to gain admission without JAMB?

The easiest way depends on your qualifications. If you have an ND, NCE, or A-level certificate, Direct Entry is a good option. If you just finished secondary school, IJMB, JUPEB, or Pre-degree programs are great choices.

3. How long do IJMB and JUPEB take?

Both IJMB and JUPEB take 9 to 12 months. After passing the exams, you can gain direct admission into 200 level.

4. Is NOUN a good option for admission without JAMB?

Yes, NOUN (National Open University of Nigeria) does not require JAMB. However, NOUN graduates cannot participate in NYSC, though they can apply for jobs and further studies.

5. Which universities accept IJMB and JUPEB?

Many federal, state, and private universities in Nigeria accept IJMB and JUPEB for Direct Entry admission. Some popular ones include:

• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• University of Benin (UNIBEN)
• Lagos State University (LASU)