EDUCATION

Which Is the Best and Fastest Admission Route in Nigeria: JAMB or JUPEB/IJMB?

Every Nigerian student seeking higher education faces an important decision: choosing the best admission route. For years, JAMB has been the most common pathway into universities, but Direct Entry programs like JUPEB and IJMB are increasingly becoming popular alternatives.

The pressing question for many students is: Which is the best and fastest admission route—JAMB or JUPEB/IJMB? To answer this, it is important to examine how each works, their advantages, challenges, and how they affect the time spent in school.

What Is JAMB?

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is responsible for conducting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). This exam serves as the standard entry route into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

JAMB candidates sit for a computer-based test covering four subjects related to their proposed course of study. Admission is based on their UTME score, O’level results, and post-UTME performance, subject to each university’s cut-off marks and policies.

Despite being widely accepted, JAMB is highly competitive, with millions of students competing for limited admission slots every year.

What Are JUPEB and IJMB?

Both JUPEB and IJMB are Direct Entry programs designed to provide an alternative pathway into Nigerian universities.

JUPEB (Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board): Established in 2014 by the University of Lagos, JUPEB is a one-year advanced level program. Students register for three subjects, attend regular lectures, and sit for exams. Successful candidates can apply for admission into 200 level through Direct Entry.
IJMB (Interim Joint Matriculation Board): Introduced decades ago by Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, IJMB also lasts nine to twelve months. Students take three subjects linked to their proposed course and sit for final exams. With good grades, they can apply for Direct Entry admission into 200 level in many universities.

Both programs prepare students academically and give them the advantage of skipping 100 level once admitted.

Comparing JAMB with JUPEB/IJMB

1. Admission Speed

JAMB candidates start from 100 level, which means they spend the full duration of their degree program, usually four to six years depending on the course. The admission process can also be lengthy due to post-UTME screenings and other requirements. JUPEB and IJMB candidates begin directly from 200 level, saving about one year. Even though the programs themselves take a year to complete, Direct Entry students still graduate earlier than their JAMB counterparts.

2. Acceptance by Universities

JAMB is universally accepted by all Nigerian higher institutions.

JUPEB is recognized by many universities across Nigeria, especially those affiliated with the board, as well as some foreign institutions.

IJMB is widely accepted in universities in northern Nigeria and several others nationwide, though not as universal as JAMB.

3. Cost

JAMB is cheaper, with registration fees around ₦6,000–₦7,000, excluding post-UTME and other school charges.

JUPEB and IJMB are more expensive. Tuition fees typically range from ₦200,000 to ₦500,000 depending on the university or study center, often including lectures, exams, and sometimes accommodation.

4. Competition

JAMB is very competitive. Millions of students sit for UTME every year, yet only a fraction secure admission. Even candidates with high scores can be denied due to limited slots and institutional policies.

JUPEB and IJMB face less competition because fewer students apply through these programs. With good results, candidates stand a better chance of gaining admission through Direct Entry.

5. Academic Preparation

JAMB is a one-day exam. Candidates prepare for months, but their performance depends on a few hours in the exam hall. This makes it risky for students who struggle under pressure.

JUPEB and IJMB, on the other hand, involve months of continuous lectures, assignments, and assessments before the final exams. This not only improves students’ knowledge but also prepares them for the university academic system.

Which Saves More Time?

JUPEB and IJMB clearly save time, since students begin from 200 level. While the program itself takes a year, the overall effect is that students complete their degree earlier compared to JAMB candidates who start from 100 level.

Which Is Easier?

This depends on a student’s learning style.

JAMB is easier for students who can handle pressure and perform well in multiple-choice exams.

JUPEB and IJMB may be better suited for students who prefer continuous learning, regular lectures, and assessments. They require more commitment but provide steady preparation for university academics.

Long-Term Benefits

JAMB: Affordable, widely recognized across all higher institutions, and valid for admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
JUPEB/IJMB: Provide faster admission, reduce competition, and prepare students better for life in university. Their certificates are valid for life and can be used even years after completion.

Which Option Should Students Choose?

Students who want an affordable route and wider acceptance may choose JAMB. However, they must be ready for tough competition and longer years in school.

Students who want to save time, reduce competition, and can afford higher tuition fees may choose JUPEB or IJMB. Direct Entry gives them the chance to graduate earlier and adapt faster to academic life.