Direct Entry Requirements 2026: IJMB, JUPEB & Others
Complete guide to Direct Entry admission 2026 — IJMB, JUPEB, A-Levels, OND, NCE requirements, application process, and choosing between alternative university pathways in Nigeria.
Direct Entry lets you skip 100 Level and enter university at 200 Level via IJMB, JUPEB, OND, NCE, or A-Levels. IJMB (moderated by ABU Zaria, ₦150k-₦250k) is best for Northern universities. JUPEB (moderated by UNILAG, ₦200k-₦350k) is best for Southern universities. Both are 9-12 month programs. You still need JAMB DE form (₦3,500).
Introduction
Not every Nigerian student gains university admission through JAMB. The Direct Entry (DE) route offers an alternative pathway for candidates with advanced qualifications like IJMB, JUPEB, OND, NCE, or A-Levels. This route admits students directly to 200 Level, skipping the 100 Level foundation year.
For Direct Entry 2026, understanding the requirements, application process, and advantages of each qualification is essential. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about IJMB, JUPEB, and other Direct Entry pathways.
What is Direct Entry (DE)?
Direct Entry is a university admission process that allows candidates with qualifications beyond O'Level to enter at 200 Level (second year). It recognizes:
- Advanced Level certificates (A-Levels, IJMB, JUPEB)
- National Diploma (ND)
- Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE)
- First degrees (for second degrees)
Pro Tip
Direct Entry Qualifications Explained
1. IJMB (Interim Joint Matriculation Board)
- Overview: One-year advanced level program moderated by ABU Zaria
- Structure: 3 subjects at Advanced Level, examination held February annually
- Requirements: Minimum 5 O'Level credits, must be 16+ years
- Grading: A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1 points. Minimum for admission: 6 points (two subjects)
- Best For: Students targeting Northern universities (ABU, BUK, UNIMAID)
2. JUPEB (Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board)
- Overview: One-year advanced level program moderated by University of Lagos
- Structure: 3 subjects at Advanced Level, examination held July/August
- Requirements: 5 O'Level credits including English, must be 16+ years
- Grading: A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1, F=0 points. Minimum for admission: 5 points
- Best For: Students targeting Southern universities (UNILAG, UI, OAU, UNN)
3. Cambridge A-Levels / IGCSE
- International Advanced Level qualification, recognized worldwide
- 3-4 subjects at A-Level, 1-2 year program
- More expensive but globally accepted
- Best For: Students planning to study abroad
4. National Diploma (ND)
- 2-year program at Polytechnics/Monotechnics
- Minimum Lower Credit (CGPA 2.50+) required
- Best For: Technical and vocational course applicants
5. Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE)
- 3-year teacher training program
- Minimum Merit pass required
- Best For: Education course applicants
IJMB vs JUPEB: Which Should You Choose?
| Factor | IJMB | JUPEB |
|---|---|---|
| Moderating Institution | ABU Zaria | UNILAG |
| Recognition | Strong in North, growing in South | Strong in South, growing in North |
| Examination | February | July/August |
| Duration | 9-12 months | 9-12 months |
| Fees | ₦150,000-₦250,000 | ₦200,000-₦350,000 |
| Affiliated Universities | 100+ | 80+ |
| Acceptance Rate | High for Northern schools | High for Southern schools |
Pro Tip
Top IJMB/JUPEB Study Centers
IJMB Centers:
- Zaria (Headquarters): ABU Zaria IJMB Centre — ₦150,000-₦200,000
- Lagos: LASU IJMB Centre + private centers
- Ibadan: University of Ibadan IJMB Centre + private tutorial centers
JUPEB Centers:
- Lagos: UNILAG Foundation Programme, LASU JUPEB Centre — ₦250,000-₦350,000
- Ibadan: UI JUPEB Centre
- Port Harcourt: UNIPORT JUPEB Centre
- Abuja: UniAbuja JUPEB Centre
Direct Entry Application Process 2026
Obtain DE Form
Purchase JAMB Direct Entry form (₦3,500 + charges). Available at JAMB offices, accredited centers, and JAMB portal online.
Complete Registration
Enter personal details, O'Level results (upload), advanced qualification details (IJMB/JUPEB/ND/NCE), and choice of institutions (2 choices).
Biometric Capture
Visit accredited CBT center for fingerprint capture.
Print Acknowledgment
Keep registration slip safe for reference.
Direct Entry Admission Process
Screening:
Most universities conduct DE screening: verification of certificates, sometimes written test or interview. Check specific university requirements.
Admission:
- Merit based on points/grades
- Catchment area considerations
- ELDS quota (if applicable)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I gain admission without JAMB using IJMB or JUPEB?
Yes. IJMB and JUPEB qualify you for Direct Entry admission to 200 Level without JAMB UTME.
Q: Which is better: IJMB or JUPEB?
Both are equivalent. Choose based on your target university's preference and location convenience.
Q: How long is IJMB/JUPEB program?
Both are 9-12 month intensive programs.
Q: How much is IJMB/JUPEB school fees?
IJMB costs ₦150,000-₦250,000; JUPEB costs ₦200,000-₦350,000 depending on center.
Q: Can I use IJMB to enter any university?
IJMB is accepted by 100+ universities, but verify your specific target institution.
Q: What grades do I need for Direct Entry admission?
Minimum 5-6 points (depending on course competitiveness). Medicine/Law require higher.
Q: Is Direct Entry easier than JAMB?
Direct Entry avoids JAMB competition but requires passing advanced level exams, which is academically demanding.
Q: Can I write JAMB and do IJMB/JUPEB simultaneously?
Yes. Many students pursue both to maximize admission chances.
Conclusion
Direct Entry 2026 offers a valuable alternative to JAMB for students seeking faster university progression. Whether through IJMB, JUPEB, ND, or NCE, this pathway can save you one year and lead to the same degree.
At School Registry NG, we recommend IJMB/JUPEB for students who missed JAMB admission or want to strengthen their academic foundation before university.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written & Reviewed by
School Registry NG Editorial Team
The School Registry NG Editorial Board is a team of education researchers, former school administrators, and data analysts who verify, curate, and publish authoritative guides on Nigerian education. Our team draws from government records, WAEC/JAMB official data, and on-the-ground parent surveys to ensure every article is accurate, actionable, and up to date.
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