Nigerian universities offering admission without JAMB UTME in 2025/2026

DDM News

Many prospective students in Nigeria struggle to gain admission into universities due to the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

The pressure to achieve a high score can be overwhelming, making it difficult for many candidates to secure admission into higher institutions.

However, some Nigerian universities provide alternative pathways to earning a degree without requiring UTME.

These universities offer admission through other qualifications, making tertiary education more accessible to a wider range of students.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that for the 2025/2026 academic session, some institutions will allow students to enroll without writing JAMB UTME.

Here are four universities in Nigeria that accept candidates with or without JAMB.

National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) does not require candidates to take the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

Applicants do not need to sit for JAMB before gaining admission into the institution.

However, recent updates indicate that candidates may need to register with JAMB to formalize their admission.

Despite this requirement, they are not obligated to take the JAMB UTME.

NOUN is a federal university that specializes in open and distance learning education.

It was established in 1983 to provide access to tertiary education for Nigerians who cannot attend conventional universities.

The university offers flexible academic programs designed for working-class individuals and students with other commitments.

With study centers across Nigeria, NOUN ensures accessibility for students in different locations, you can reach out to intellicraft Academy for your admission

Its flexible academic calendar allows students to learn at their own pace, making it a suitable option for those seeking non-traditional education.

Madonna University, Okija

Madonna University is one of the private universities in Nigeria that does not require UTME results for admission.

Candidates seeking entry into the university must have at least five O’level credits in relevant subjects.

Applicants are required to register for the university’s admission screening exercise and pay the necessary fees.

Successful candidates must pass the screening test or interview to secure admission into their desired courses.

Madonna University is the first Catholic university in Nigeria and operates on multiple campuses.

The Okija campus in Anambra State houses faculties such as Management and Social Sciences, Arts and Education, and Law.

The Elele campus is home to the Faculties of Medicine, Surgery, and Pharmacology, while the Akpugo campus offers Engineering courses.

Each campus has a main library and additional faculty and departmental libraries to support academic activities.

The university provides a structured academic environment with an emphasis on discipline and religious values.

Lead City University

Lead City University offers an alternative admission route for students who do not take the UTME.

The institution accepts candidates with qualifications such as GCE ‘A’ Levels, IJMB, JUPEB, NCE, and OND.

Applicants are not required to present JAMB UTME results for admission consideration.

Lead City University is known for its flexible programs that cater to various categories of students.

It offers courses suitable for young school leavers as well as adult learners and working professionals.

The institution provides both full-time and part-time study options to accommodate different schedules.

This flexibility allows students to balance their academic pursuits with work or personal commitments.

Lead City University offers a wide range of academic programs through specialized faculties.

These faculties include Social Sciences & Entrepreneurial Studies, Information Technology & Applied Sciences, and Law.

The university is recognized for its emphasis on information technology, entrepreneurship, and business education.

It continues to integrate technology into its academic curriculum to stay ahead in modern education trends.

Alternative admission routes to universities

These universities provide opportunities for students to gain admission without facing the challenges of UTME.

For candidates who do not meet JAMB requirements, alternative qualifications such as IJMB and JUPEB serve as viable pathways.

Many students who struggle with JAMB UTME now have multiple options to pursue their university education.

These universities focus on expanding access to higher education by eliminating rigid entry barriers.

Prospective students can take advantage of these institutions to achieve their academic and career goals.

By offering flexible admission policies, these universities cater to diverse learning needs.

They provide an inclusive system that ensures more students have the opportunity to further their education.

Why more universities may adopt flexible admission policies

The demand for university education in Nigeria continues to increase, leading to stiff competition for available slots.

Many students face difficulties gaining admission due to JAMB cut-off marks and limited spaces in public universities.

Some private universities have adopted direct admission routes to attract more students and expand enrollment.

These institutions aim to provide opportunities for students who may not perform well in standardized tests.

As university education becomes more competitive, more institutions may introduce flexible admission policies.

Students who struggle with JAMB UTME can explore universities that offer alternative entry routes.

This trend could help reduce the pressure associated with JAMB and make higher education more inclusive.

Conclusion

Gaining admission into Nigerian universities without JAMB UTME is possible through specific institutions.

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Madonna University, and Lead City University offer flexible admission options.

These universities allow students to enroll using alternative qualifications instead of UTME results.

Prospective students should research each university’s admission policies to find the best option for their educational needs.

By considering universities with flexible entry requirements, more students can achieve their academic dreams without facing UTME-related obstacles.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook