How to Get Admission into a Top Nigerian University Without Connections

In Nigeria, getting into a top university can feel like a game of “who-you-know.” You’ve probably heard things like:

“If you don’t have connections, forget it!”

“Admission is not for poor man pikin o!”

But

If you’re tired of checking your JAMB portal only to see “Not Admitted”, or you’re about to write JAMB for the first time and don’t want to end up frustrated, keep reading.

Below are five proven ways to get into a Nigerian university without connections.

1. Score High in JAMB

Your JAMB score is the most important factor in securing admission. Nigerian universities rank applicants strictly by numbers, so the higher your score, the better your chances.

What JAMB Score Do You Need?

• Highly competitive courses (Medicine, Law, Engineering, Pharmacy) → Aim for 250+

• Moderately competitive courses (Accounting, Economics, Mass Communication) → 200-230 cut off mark

• Less competitive courses (Education, Agriculture, some social sciences) → 180-200

How to Score High in JAMB

• Study past questions religiously

• Use JAMB CBT practice apps

• Focus on time management

• Join a JAMB tutorial

Your WAEC or NECO results matter too. If you don’t have at least five credits (including English and Mathematics in one sitting), even a 300 in JAMB won’t save you. If your results aren’t good enough, rewrite WAEC or NECO before applying.

2. Choose Your Course and School Wisely

Many students make the mistake of applying for highly competitive courses in top universities, even when their JAMB score is low. This is why many students get rejected.

If your dream is Medicine, but your score is not high enough, consider applying for: Medical Laboratory Science, Physiology, or Anatomy, later, you can apply for a change of course to Medicine after your first year. If you want Law but don’t meet the cut-off, apply for Political Science or International Relations and switch later.

Most federal universities favor students from their home states. This means you stand a better chance if you apply to a school within your catchment area. For example: A student from Oyo State has a higher chance of getting into UI than someone from Enugu.

If your score is not super high, apply to a university where you fall within the catchment area—it increases your chances significantly.

Read Also: Top 10 Best Courses to Study in Nigeria for High-Paying Jobs in the Next 5 Years

3. Pass Post-UTME Like a Pro

JAMB alone doesn’t guarantee admission. Many top universities require Post-UTME, and it’s usually tougher than JAMB.

How to Pass Post-UTME with Flying Colors

1. Get past questions – Schools often repeat question patterns.
2. Time yourself while practicing – Post-UTME is usually time-sensitive.
3. Check your school’s format – Some schools use a screening system instead of an exam.

Know your school’s Post-UTME cut-off mark and admission process early.

4. Alternative Routes If JAMB or Post-UTME Fails You

If your JAMB or Post-UTME score isn’t enough, don’t lose hope. Here are three alternative routes:

A. Direct Entry (DE)

If you have ND, NCE, or A-Level (JUPEB/IJMB), you can skip JAMB and apply directly for 200 level. Many universities, including UNILAG, UI, and UNN, accept Direct Entry students.

B. Foundation or Diploma Programs

Universities like UNILAG, UNN, and Covenant University offer one-year foundation programs that allow you to enter 200 level after completion. They can be expensive, but they work.

C. Consider Private Universities

Many private universities offer scholarships to students who perform well. Schools like Covenant University, AUN, and Babcock have scholarship opportunities and flexible payment plans.

You can also apply for MTN Foundation, NNPC/Total, and state government scholarships—they can fund your studies in both private and public universities.

Many students miss out on admission simply because they didn’t check their status on time. Here's how to stay ahead;

1. Check your school’s website regularly for updates.
2. Join admission WhatsApp or Telegram groups to stay informed.
3. Keep checking your admission status on JAMB CAPS.
4. Use JAMB’s change of institution option if your first-choice school doesn’t work out.

If others can gain admission without connections, why not you? Stay focused, prepare smartly, and don’t let anyone discourage you.

Are you struggling with JAMB, Post-UTME, or admission issues? Drop your questions in the comments, and I’ll be happy to help.

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