Direct Entry (JUPEB/IJMB) vs JAMB: Which Is the Better and Faster Route to University Admission in Nigeria?

Every year, thousands of Nigerian students face the same challenge—how to gain admission into a university. For many, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exam is the most popular route. But as competition grows stiffer, alternatives such as Direct Entry programs like JUPEB and IJMB are becoming more attractive.

If you are confused about which path to choose, this article will explain how Direct Entry (JUPEB/IJMB) compares with JAMB, and which option may be faster and better for your admission goals.

What Is JAMB?

JAMB, through the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), regulates admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Students sit for a computer-based exam, usually consisting of four subjects related to their course of study.

After the exam, scores are released, and candidates apply for admission through their chosen schools. Universities then screen candidates based on JAMB scores, O’level grades, and sometimes post-UTME exams.

JAMB is the most common admission route in Nigeria, but it is also highly competitive, with millions of candidates competing for limited spaces each year.

What Is Direct Entry (JUPEB/IJMB)?

Direct Entry is another recognized route into Nigerian universities. Instead of starting from 100 level, candidates gain admission directly into 200 level. Two of the most popular Direct Entry programs are JUPEB (Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board) and IJMB (Interim Joint Matriculation Board).

• JUPEB is a one-year advanced level program established by the University of Lagos in 2014, now run by several universities across Nigeria. Students study three subjects relevant to their proposed course and sit for final exams. With good grades, they can apply through Direct Entry into 200 level.
• IJMB was introduced by Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and has been in existence for decades. Like JUPEB, it is also an advanced level program lasting about nine to twelve months. Successful students can apply for Direct Entry into 200 level of many Nigerian universities.

Comparing JAMB with JUPEB/IJMB Direct Entry

Now let’s look at how JAMB compares with JUPEB/IJMB in terms of speed, cost, acceptance, and overall benefits.

1. Admission Speed

JAMB candidates usually start from 100 level. This means they spend four to five years on average, depending on their course of study. The admission process is also longer, since candidates must wait for universities to release cut-off marks, conduct post-UTME screenings, and finalize admission lists.

With JUPEB or IJMB, students skip 100 level and start directly from 200 level. This saves about a year in the university, making Direct Entry faster in terms of completing a degree.

2. Acceptance by Universities

JAMB is accepted by every higher institution in Nigeria, including polytechnics and colleges of education.

JUPEB and IJMB are accepted by many universities in Nigeria, particularly those that are affiliated with the programs. Some foreign universities also recognize JUPEB. However, unlike JAMB, these programs are not accepted everywhere. Students need to confirm if their chosen school recognizes JUPEB or IJMB before applying.

3. Cost

JAMB is the more affordable option. Registration usually costs about ₦6,000–₦7,000, excluding post-UTME and other school fees.

JUPEB and IJMB are more expensive. Tuition fees for the programs range from ₦200,000 to ₦500,000 depending on the study center or university. The higher cost is one of the major factors that discourage some students from choosing Direct Entry.

4. Competition

JAMB is extremely competitive. Millions of students sit for the UTME each year, yet admission slots remain limited. Even students with good scores sometimes miss out due to strict university admission policies.

JUPEB and IJMB reduce this competition. Once a student completes the program and passes the exam, admission through Direct Entry is more assured. This is because fewer students apply through JUPEB or IJMB compared to JAMB.

5. Exam Format and Preparation

JAMB is a one-day exam. Candidates prepare for months, but their performance is decided within a short period. This means that even bright students can underperform due to exam tension or poor time management.

JUPEB and IJMB operate more like a mini university system. Students attend lectures for months, write assignments, tests, and then final exams. Success depends on consistency rather than a single exam day.

Which Saves More Time?

Direct Entry through JUPEB or IJMB saves more time because candidates skip 100 level and begin from 200 level. For instance, if a JAMB candidate and a JUPEB candidate gain admission in the same year, the JUPEB candidate will graduate earlier, all things being equal.

However, it is important to note that the JUPEB/IJMB program itself takes about a year to complete. This means that in practice, both options take almost the same amount of time. The difference is that Direct Entry students still finish faster because they start from 200 level.

Which Is Easier?

JAMB requires mastering multiple-choice questions under strict time limits. It can be easier for students who are good at handling fast-paced objective tests.

JUPEB and IJMB require long-term commitment and continuous academic work. While this may seem harder at first, it also prepares students for university life, since it mirrors the way courses are taught at higher levels.

Long-Term Benefits

For JAMB, the benefit lies in affordability and universal acceptance. Every Nigerian university recognizes JAMB, and it is the safest route for students who want flexibility in school choices.

For JUPEB and IJMB, the advantage is the opportunity to save time and bypass the high competition of JAMB. They also help students adapt quickly to university academics since the programs are designed in a similar way.

Which Should Students Choose?

Students with limited financial resources may prefer JAMB since it is cheaper and widely accepted. However, they must also be prepared for intense competition.

Students who can afford the higher cost of JUPEB or IJMB, and who want to avoid the long wait and stress of JAMB admission lists, may find Direct Entry more attractive. It gives them the chance to graduate earlier and enjoy a less competitive admission process.

The debate between JAMB and Direct Entry programs like JUPEB and IJMB often comes down to two factors: time and money. JAMB is affordable, widely accepted, but highly competitive and sometimes slow in producing results. Direct Entry (JUPEB/IJMB) is faster and less competitive, but it is also more expensive and not accepted by every university. In the end, both paths are valid and can lead to a successful university education in Nigeria. The better route depends on each student’s academic strength, financial capability, and long-term plans.

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