5 things UTME candidates should consider before choosing an institution

 

Here are important factors to consider before picking an institution:

1. Ensure the School and Your Course of Study Are Accredited

This is the most crucial factor when choosing a school or university. Some institutions offer courses that are not accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) or other relevant bodies. Be sure to research and choose schools that are fully accredited. Otherwise, you might end up wasting your time and resources on a program that doesn’t meet national standards.

2. Consider the School’s Catchment Area

The catchment area of a school can give you an advantage during the admission process. For example, if you are from Lagos, Osun, Oyo, Ekiti, or Ogun, you might benefit from a reduced cut-off mark when applying to the University of Lagos (UNILAG), as these states fall within the university’s catchment area. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t apply if you’re not from the catchment area. It simply means candidates from these areas have a better chance of admission due to lower cut-off marks.

3. Check the Strike History of the Institution

In addition to ASUU and ASUP strikes, some universities are more prone to internal strikes that could disrupt academic activities and extend your duration of study. It’s important to investigate whether your potential school has a history of frequent strikes, as this can affect your academic progress.

4. Review the Admission Requirements

Admission requirements can vary from one institution to another. Some schools have a higher JAMB cut-off mark (e.g., 200), while others may accept a lower score. Be sure to check the specific requirements of the institution you’re interested in and ensure you meet the minimum criteria. Additionally, review how the admission process was conducted the previous year to avoid surprises during your own application.

5. Understand the Screening Process

Different universities have varying methods for screening candidates. Some use only O’level results and JAMB scores, while others conduct aptitude tests as part of the screening process. If you have a strong O’level result, you’ll likely perform well in schools that base their screening on JAMB scores and O’level grades alone.

By considering these factors, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision about the best institution for your studies.

Good luck with your preparations, and we wish you the best in your 2025 JAMB exam!