Gaining admission into the University in Nigeria can be a frustrating experience for many students.
The processes and requirements involved in studying for the JAMB and Post UTME exams can be challenging.
Like most Nigerian students, I struggled for many years to gain admission into the University to study my dream course.
The years of failing either the JAMB or Post UTME exams were a devastating period of my life.
There is no joy in seeing all your mates from Secondary School wearing their matriculation gowns at the University or posting pictures of their school campuses.
I want to assure you that from my experience, I know how you may feel right now. All hope is lost.
But one lesson life has taught me over and over again is there is always hope because, at the end of the tunnel, you will find the light.
Despite my struggles, I still made it to one of the top medical schools in Nigeria.
In this article, I will show you the alternative way to gain admission into the University in Nigeria without JAMB using JUPEB or IJMB A’level certificate.
I want you to feel free to ask me any questions or need further clarification. It is an assurance I will respond to your questions as soon as possible.
Table of contents
Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB)

JUPEB stands for the Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB).
JUPEB is a national body approved by the Federal Government of Nigeria to conduct common and standard examinations for candidates seeking Direct Entry admissions into University courses at the 200 Level in Nigerian and partnering foreign universities.
The JUPEB programme is a minimum of one year of approved courses in the different approved Universities’ ‘s Foundation and Diploma Programmes.
JUPEB Affiliated Universities
The following is the list of Universities in Nigeria that accept JUPEB for Direct Entry (DE) admission;
- Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
- Federal University of Technology, Akure
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- University of Benin
- University of Ilorin
- University of Lagos
- University of Nigeria
- University of Port Harcourt
- University of Uyo
- Abia State University Absu Uturu
- Achievers University Achievers
- Adekunle Ajasin University
- Adeleke University
- Afe Babalola University
- African University of Science and Technology
- Ajayi Crowther University
- Akwa Ibom State University
- Al-hikmah University
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University
- Anchor University
- Atiba University
- Augustine University
- Babcock University
- Bayelsa Medical University
- Bells University of Technology
- Benson Idahosa University
- Bowen University
- Caleb University
- Caritas University
- Chrisland University
- Christopher University
- Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University
- Clifford University
- Coal City University
- Crawford University
- Crescent University
- Cross River University of Technology
- Crown Hill University
- Delta State University
- Dennis Osadebey University
- Dominican University
- Ebonyi State University
- Edwin Clark University
- Ekiti State University
- Elizade University
- Enugu State University of Science and Technology
- Evangel University
- Federal University of Petroleum, Effurun
- Federal University, Oye-Ekiti
- First Technical University
- Fountain University
- Godfrey Okoye University
- Gregory University
- Hallmark University
- Hezekiah University
- Igbinedion University
- Ignatius Ajuru University of Education
- Imo State University
- Joseph Ayo Babalola University
- Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi
- Kings University Kings
- Kogi State University
- Koladaisi University
- Kwara State University
- Kwararafa University Wukari
- Ladoke Akintola University of Technology
- Lagos State University
- Lead City University
- Madonna University
- Mcpherson University
- Mountain Top University
- Niger Delta University
- Nile University of Nigeria
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University
- Novena University
- Obong University
- Olabisi Onabanjo University
- Olusegun Agagu University of Science & Technology
- Osun State University
- Paul Universit
- Precious Cornerstone University
- Redeemer’s University
- Renaissance University
- Ritman University
- Salem University
- Samuel Adegboyega University
- Summit University
- Tai Solarin University of Education
- Trinity University
- University of Abuja
- University of Africa
- University of Calabar
- University of Delta
- University of Mkar
- Veritas University
- Wellspring University
- Wesley University
- Western Delta University
Interim Joint Matriculation Board Examination (IJMB)

The abbreviation IJMB stands for the Interim Joint Matriculation Board Examination.
IJMB is a qualifying examination for Nigerian and Foreign Universities.
The IJMB examination is primarily for Advanced Level subjects for Direct Entry into 200-level Universities.
The syllabus for the IJMB Examination is in line with international standard educational requirements and admission requirements of various Universities in Nigeria and overseas.
Admission Requirements
Students applying for IJMB must pass five subjects at credit level at not more than two sittings in the SSCE/GCE organized by WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB and should include the primary subjects of study.
Candidates who expect the release of their ‘O’ level results can also apply by indicating their “Awaiting Result” status appropriately ONLINE.
The programme is for nine (9) months divided into two semesters
Eligibility
The IJMB programme is open to all interested candidates nationwide.
The programme’s venue depends on the candidate’s choice.
All interested IJMB applicants are to choose from study centres nationwide, the centre they wish to do the programme during their online registration, based on the study centre availability at the time of registration.
IJMB Fees
Fees | Amount (₦) |
---|---|
Registration Form | 8,500 |
School Fees | 200,000 |
Candidates can pay the School Fees in Two Installments Within four (4) months.
Students may choose to stay on Campus or off Campus at will.
Hostel Facilities are available for all students.
How to Gain Admission With JUPEB & IJMB

JUPEB and IJMB programmes are the best alternatives to JAMB UTME for admission into the University.
The good thing about these programmes is that you will gain admission into the second year at the University.
So, the one year you would spend on the IJMB or JUPEB programme would not be wasted.
The following are the processes to gain admission to the University with IJMB or JUPEB results;
A description of how to gain admission to the University using JUPEB or IJMB certificates
- Locate an IJMB or JUPEB study centre
The first to register for the JUPEB or IJMB is to locate a training centre for your studies.
It could be a private training centre or University.
Students can only register for JUPEB at the University, while the IJMB training can hold at a private study centre. - Fill out the application form
The next step after locating a study centre is to fill out the application form.
JUPEB and IJMB forms are available online or at physical locations of training schools. - Pay for the registration form
Depending on the school, the IJMB and JUPEB programmes registration form is between eight to fifteen thousand Naira (₦8,000-15,000).
- Pay school and hostel fees
The IJMB and JUPEB school fees are per semester for the academic session.
The price for the fees depends on the institution or training centre.
Also, there is provision for hostel accommodation for students except at University campuses.
Pros of JUPEB or IJMB Certificates

I recommend IJMB and JUPEB as the best alternatives to JAMB in my post on how to gain admission into the University in Nigeria with a low JAMB score.
These A’level programmes are the best options to gain admission without JAMB UTME.
The following are the advantages of enrolling for the IJMB or JUPEB programme;
- Direct Entry Admission
- Less Competition
- Acceptability of A’level Results
- No Strike Disruptions
- Certificate Validity
Direct Entry Admission
Admission to the second year through the JAMB Direct Entry admission form is the primary advantage of the A’level programme.
Unlike UTME students sitting for the JAMB examinations, you would gain admission to the 200 level in the school of your choice.
It makes sense because the IJMB or JUPEB programme is for an academic session for approximately a year.
So you can apply for the programme with the assurance that you are not starting from the first year at the University.
Less Competition
A’level admission is less competitive when compared to the JAMB UTME.
Every year, millions of students in Nigeria apply through JAMB for admission to University.
But only a few students enrol for A’level programmes. It is not to say that admission by this route is easy, but it increases your chances.
Acceptability of A’level Results
Most of Nigeria’s Federal, State, and Private Universities accept A’level results like IJMB and JUPEB.
It means you can enrol for the JUPEB programme at the University of Nigeria and apply for admission at the University of Benin.
The acceptability of the result in almost all the schools in Nigeria increases your chances for admission.
No Strike Disruptions
The A’level programme is not an under the University’s academic activities.
It means that JUPEB and IJMB students do not experience strike actions like the ASUU strike.
A’level is a faster route to complete your studies in due time.
Certificate Validity
The result validity of the Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB) programme is three (3) years.
It is a far better option than the JAMB UTME, which is for a year.
An A’level result allows you to seek direct entry (DE) admission for a longer time.
Cons of JUPEB or IJMB Certificates
The following are the disadvantages of A’level programmes like JUPEB or IJMB in Nigeria;
- High Cost of Study
- Admission Difficulty for Medical Aspirants
High Cost of Study
The high cost of studies, like payment of school fees, accommodation fees and textbooks, are the major cons of enrolling on A’level programmes in Nigeria.
For example, Universities in Nigeria do not provide hostel accommodation to JUPEB and IJMB students.
The implication is that these students would have to rent accommodation outside the school campus.
The budget for JUPEB or IJMB programme is two hundred and fifty thousand Naira (₦250,000), excluding feeding and housing.
Admission Difficulty for Medical Aspirants
Students applying to study medical courses like Medicine and Surgery, Nursing Sciences, Radiography, Medical Laboratory Science, Dentistry and Medical Rehabilitation have difficulty securing admission with A’level results.
This challenge is because these medical courses are competitive with a high number of applicants.
I can tell you that most students applying for JUPEB or IJMB are aspirating to study medical-related courses.
For this reason, there is no assurance you would gain admission to the University if you are appplying to study any of the comeptitive courses.
Let me know in the comment box below if you have any questions or need further clarification. I will love to help you.
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So it means I won’t get admission into medicine if have 13point in ijmb
David,
It depends on the school and mode of admission screening.
But, 13 points won’t get you Medicine in most Federal Universities.
Please, do Jupeb students wear uniform?
No, Floxy
If I do jupeb at a university do I have to attend the uni for my 200 lvl or my results can allow me to apply to any other uni for 200lvl
Hush,
You can apply to other universities that accept JUPEB for direct entry admission.
What if you pass the exam excellently for the JUPEB program, won’t you still be given admission as a medical student?
Yes, Blessing
With sixteen (16) points, you are almost guaranteed admission to most universities in Nigeria.
What if you get below 16 points
Stanley,
You will stand a low chance for medical related courses.