How JAMB UTME is different from JAMB Direct Entry in 2025/2026

How JAMB UTME is different from JAMB Direct Entry in 2025/2026: The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is responsible for managing admissions into higher institutions in Nigeria. Every year, thousands of students take part in JAMB’s exams to gain admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. However, there are two primary ways that students can gain admission: through the JAMB UTME and JAMB Direct Entry. If you are planning to enter university in 2025/2026, it is important to know the difference between these two routes. This article will explain how JAMB UTME differs from JAMB Direct Entry.

Table of Contents

What is JAMB UTME?

The JAMB UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) is the most common route for students who want to gain admission into a Nigerian university or college. The UTME is an entrance exam taken by students after they finish their secondary school education (SSCE). It is a major requirement for students who want to pursue a degree program in various fields such as Science, Arts, Law, Engineering, and Medicine.

Key Features of JAMB UTME:

Who Takes It: Students who have completed their secondary school education (WASSCE, NECO, or GCE) and are aiming for a degree course.
Subjects: The UTME consists of four subjects, including English Language (compulsory) and three other subjects depending on the course of study.
Exam Type: The exam is computer-based (CBT) and contains multiple-choice questions.
Purpose: It is used to test the candidate’s knowledge in subjects related to their chosen course of study in the university or college.
Admission Process: After taking the UTME exam, successful candidates can be admitted to a university or polytechnic for a bachelor’s degree program.

What is JAMB Direct Entry?

The JAMB Direct Entry (DE) is an alternative route for students who already have qualifications from higher education or professional programs and want to transfer into a university or polytechnic without sitting for the UTME exam. This means that students who have completed certain programs, like a National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), or a degree from another institution, can apply directly for admission into a higher level of their chosen course.

Key Features of JAMB Direct Entry:

Who Takes It: Students who have a National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), or a degree from a recognized institution (like a university or polytechnic) and want to gain admission into a higher year of their chosen course.
Subjects: No specific subject exams are required. The application for Direct Entry involves submitting your academic qualifications and credentials.
Application Process: Students must apply for Direct Entry through JAMB, providing their academic qualifications and relevant documents to get admission into a 200-level or higher course.
Purpose: It is a route for students who already have a post-secondary qualification to continue their studies at a higher level.

Key Differences Between JAMB UTME and JAMB Direct Entry in 2025/2026

1. Eligibility: Who Can Apply?

JAMB UTME: This route is for students who have completed their secondary school education (WASSCE, NECO, or GCE) and have not attended university, polytechnic, or any higher institution. These candidates apply directly to enter into the 100-level of their chosen course.
JAMB Direct Entry: This is for students who already have a post-secondary qualification like National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), or a degree from a recognized institution. These candidates can apply to enter the university at the 200-level or higher.

2. Purpose of the Exam/Process

JAMB UTME: The purpose of the UTME exam is to test students’ knowledge in subjects related to their intended course of study. Successful candidates are given the opportunity to start their degree programs from the 100-level.
JAMB Direct Entry: Direct Entry allows students who have completed certain higher qualifications, such as ND, HND, or a degree, to apply for a higher level (usually 200-level) in their chosen university. There is no exam involved in the process; it’s mainly based on the candidate’s qualifications.

3. Admission Level

JAMB UTME: Students who pass the UTME exam are typically admitted into 100-level (the first year) of their degree programs.
JAMB Direct Entry: Students with the required qualifications are admitted into 200-level or higher (depending on the institution’s policy and the candidate’s qualifications). This means that Direct Entry students skip the first year and enter the university at a higher level.

4. Required Qualifications

JAMB UTME: The only requirement for UTME candidates is having completed secondary school education (WASSCE, NECO, or GCE). Students must meet the JAMB cut-off mark to be considered for admission.
JAMB Direct Entry: For Direct Entry, candidates must have a National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), or a degree from a recognized institution. Some universities also accept other qualifications like A-Level results, IJMB, and Cambridge certificates.

5. Examination Format

JAMB UTME: The UTME exam is a computer-based test with multiple-choice questions in subjects related to your course of study. The exam usually lasts for 2 to 3 hours.
JAMB Direct Entry: There is no specific exam for Direct Entry. Candidates apply with their qualifications, and the admission is based on their academic record, along with the university’s entry requirements.

6. Admission Requirements

JAMB UTME: After passing the UTME exam, candidates must meet the cut-off marks set by the university and their desired course of study. Then, they go through the Post-UTME screening before they are finally admitted.
JAMB Direct Entry: Direct Entry candidates must meet the entry requirements, such as having a good ND/HND result or a degree. They also need to submit their transcripts and other supporting documents to the university. The university then decides if they can offer admission.

Which Option Should You Choose?

Choosing between JAMB UTME and JAMB Direct Entry depends on your current educational background. If you are fresh out of secondary school, the UTME route is for you. However, if you already have a post-secondary qualification like an ND or HND, Direct Entry might be the best option to continue your education at a higher level.

JAMB UTME is perfect for students who are starting their higher education journey after completing their secondary school education.
JAMB Direct Entry is ideal for those who have already completed some level of higher education and want to continue their studies from a more advanced level.

Conclusion

In conclusion, JAMB UTME and JAMB Direct Entry are two distinct routes to gaining admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. The UTME is for students who are entering higher education directly from secondary school, while Direct Entry is for those who already have qualifications like ND, HND, or a degree. It’s important to choose the right pathway based on your current qualifications and future goals.