EDUCATION

CGPA for Direct Entry to Universities for ND and HND Candidates in Nigeria

In today’s academic environment, many polytechnic graduates with ND (National Diploma) or HND (Higher National Diploma) certificates are eager to further their studies in universities through the Direct Entry process. But one of the biggest questions on the minds of these students is: what CGPA is required to be eligible? While there’s a general awareness that performance matters, many are unsure of what exactly counts as “acceptable” for admission into 200 or 300 level across different Nigerian universities.

This article walks you through the CGPA expectations for ND and HND holders aiming to gain university admission, the unspoken rules schools follow, and why just meeting the minimum isn’t always enough.

What is Direct Entry and Who Can Apply?

Direct Entry (DE) is a mode of admission into Nigerian universities that allows candidates to skip 100 level and start from either 200 or 300 level, depending on their qualifications. It is commonly used by those who already have a diploma, such as ND or HND holders, NCE graduates, IJMB, JUPEB, and other A’level certificate holders. For ND and HND students from polytechnics, this route offers a second chance to earn a university degree without restarting from scratch. But the opportunity comes with requirements — and one of the biggest is your CGPA.

CGPA Requirement for ND Holders Seeking Direct Entry

If you hold an ND certificate and want to use it for direct entry admission into a university, your CGPA must meet a certain level before you’ll be considered. Most universities across Nigeria require ND holders to have at least a Lower Credit result, which translates to a CGPA of 2.50 and above on a 4.0 scale. Candidates with a CGPA below 2.50 (Pass grade) usually face rejection, unless they are applying to very few state universities that sometimes consider Pass results, and even then, under special conditions such as a long work experience or highly competitive UTME score combined with Direct Entry application. Private universities may also relax this CGPA slightly but often with additional entry screening or academic probation after admission. However, these cases are exceptions, not the standard.

CGPA Requirement for HND Holders Seeking Direct Entry

HND holders also take advantage of the Direct Entry route, and they’re often placed at 300 level depending on the course, university policy, and performance. Just like ND holders, the CGPA requirement begins from a Lower Credit, but some top-ranking universities may ask for Upper Credit, which is a CGPA of 3.00 and above on a 4.0 scale. This is especially true for competitive courses like Engineering, Medicine-related programs, and Law, where only the best students make the shortlist. In such cases, a CGPA of 3.50 or higher gives a stronger advantage, especially when combined with relevant course experience or professional certifications.

Those with a Pass grade (CGPA below 2.50) often find it nearly impossible to get admitted into public universities via Direct Entry with an HND, unless they switch to a completely different course with lower competition or apply to some privately-owned institutions.

Differences in CGPA Expectations by University Type

There’s no single rule that applies to every institution. Federal universities tend to uphold stricter CGPA policies than state or private universities. For instance:

A federal university like University of Lagos (UNILAG), Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) or University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) may not accept a Lower Credit in certain faculties.
State universities like Lagos State University (LASU) or Ekiti State University (EKSU) are sometimes more flexible but still expect at least 2.50.
Private universities might accept Lower Credit or even Pass grades, but usually at a higher tuition cost and with stricter academic monitoring during the program.

Before submitting a Direct Entry application, it’s important to research the exact CGPA cut-off for your desired school and course. Assumptions can lead to wasted effort, time, and money.

How to Increase Your Chances of Admission Despite Your CGPA

If your CGPA isn’t as high as you’d like, there are still ways to improve your chances:

First, ensure your course aligns with your ND or HND discipline. A student with a National Diploma in Mass Communication stands a much better chance getting into a university to continue in the same or related course. Switching from Mass Communication to Accounting, for example, may not work unless additional qualifications like A’levels are provided.

Secondly, combining your Direct Entry application with a strong UTME score (yes, some universities still require it for DE applicants) gives you an added edge. The higher your UTME score, the more likely your application will be considered, especially when competing with others who have higher CGPAs.

Lastly, backing up your application with work experience, project portfolios, or additional certifications can help when applying to courses that welcome practical experience, such as Architecture, Fine Arts, or Computer Science.

CGPA Isn’t Everything: Other Factors that Matter

It’s not just about the CGPA — universities also look at:

The relevance of your ND or HND course to the degree program you’re applying for.
Your O’Level results (including credit passes in required subjects).
If the university requires a Direct Entry screening test or post-UTME.
Your application timing (early applicants are usually favored).

A student with a 3.00 CGPA but poor WAEC results may still be rejected, while another with a 2.80 CGPA but five credits including English and Mathematics, and an aligned discipline, may be admitted without issues.