After your JAMB exam, the next big step for getting into any Nigerian university, polytechnic, or college is the Post-UTME screening. Every school runs this screening their own way, with different rules and formats. Knowing what each school requires saves you time, money, and stress. This guide breaks down the general and specific Post-UTME requirements for institutions across Nigeria in simple terms.
What is Post-UTME and Why Does it Matter?
Think of Post-UTME as the second exam you must pass to get into your chosen school. It’s a screening test organized by the schools themselves, not by JAMB. Your score here is combined with your JAMB score to make your final “aggregate score.” For many schools, this Post-UTME score is 50% of your total result. So, even if you did very well in JAMB, doing poorly here can ruin your chances.
Is Post-UTME the Same for Every School?
No, it is not. While they all serve the same purpose, the details are different. Some schools hold a written computer-based test (CBT). Some do oral interviews. Some just collect your documents and use your O’level grades to score you. The cost, the dates, and the subjects tested are all set by each individual school.
General Requirements for All Post-UTME Screenings
Before we talk about specific schools, here are the things you will almost always need for any Post-UTME application. Have these ready before the forms go on sale.
1. Your JAMB Details
You must have sat for the current UTME. You will need your JAMB registration number and the exact score you got. The school will check this against JAMB’s records. Your score must also meet or pass the school’s own cut-off mark.
2. A Recent Passport Photograph
You will need a clear, clean passport photo with a white or red background. Most schools ask you to upload this during the online application. Make sure it looks like you and is not blurry.
3. A Valid Email Address and Phone Number
All your communication about the screening will go to the email and phone number you provide. Use one you check daily. Do not lose access to this email.
4. Your O’Level Results (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB)
You must have at least five credit passes, including English and Maths. The subjects must relate to the course you want to study. You will need to upload the scanned copy or provide the details online. If you are waiting for results, you can often use your “Awaiting Result” status, but you must present the original result later.
5. Payment of the Screening Fee
You have to pay for the Post-UTME form. The price varies by school, usually between ₦2,000 and ₦5,000. Payment is almost always online via the school’s portal, using debit cards or bank transfers.
Specific Requirements by School Type
Here is how the screening process differs between universities, polytechnics, and colleges.
Federal and State Universities
These are often the most competitive. They mostly use Computer-Based Tests (CBT) just like JAMB. The questions test your knowledge in the subjects related to your chosen course, plus English and General Knowledge. Examples: UNILAG, UI, UNIBEN.
Private Universities
Private schools can be flexible. They might use a CBT, a written exam, or just an oral interview. They focus a lot on checking your original documents. Sometimes, the screening is more about confirming you can pay the fees. Examples: Covenant University, Babcock University.
Polytechnics and Colleges of Education
For Polytechnics (like YABATECH) and Colleges of Education, the screening might be a simple document verification exercise. They often score you based on your JAMB score and your O’level grades without an extra exam. But some still conduct tests.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Any Post-UTME
Follow these steps for any school you apply to. The process is mostly the same everywhere.
Step 1: Check the School’s Website
This is the most important step. Go to the official website of the school you want to enter. Look for a link that says “Admissions,” “Post-UTME,” or “Screening.” All the correct information will be posted there. Do not believe rumors on social media.
Step 2: Register on the Portal
Click on the application link and fill out the form online. You will type in your JAMB score, personal details, O’level grades, and choose your course. Make sure all the details match what you have with JAMB.
Step 3: Make the Payment
Generate a payment invoice (usually an RRR number) on the portal. Take this to the bank or pay online with your card. Keep the payment receipt. Your portal will be updated to show “Payment Confirmed.”
Step 4: Print Your Acknowledgment Slip
After payment, go back to the portal. You will be able to print an important document called the acknowledgment slip or screening slip. This paper has your exam date, venue, and time. You must bring it to the screening center.
Step 5: Attend the Screening
Go to the exam center on your given date. Bring your printed slip, JAMB original result slip, and O’level result(s). Some schools ask for original certificates, so carry them in a clear file. Dress neatly.
Special Cases and What to Watch For
Some schools have unique rules. Missing one detail can disqualify you.
Direct Entry (DE) Candidates
If you are applying through Direct Entry (with ND, NCE, or IJMB), you also need to go through Post-UTME screening. You will need to upload your A’Level results or diploma certificates during the application.
Candidates with Awaiting Results
If you are waiting for your WAEC or NECO result, you can select “Awaiting Result” (A/R) on the form. But once the result is out, you must quickly upload it to the school’s portal. If you fail to get the required credits, your admission will be cancelled.
Change of Course/Institution
If you changed your course or school on the JAMB portal, you must make sure the new details are what you use for the Post-UTME registration. The information must be the same on both platforms.
How to Prepare for the Post-UTME Exam
Do not underestimate this test. Here is how to get ready.
1. Get Past Questions
The best study material is the past questions for your specific school. You can buy them online or from bookshops near the school campus. They help you know the question pattern.
2. Focus on Key Subjects
Study the main subjects for your course. For example, if you want to study Medicine, focus on Biology and Chemistry. Also, study English and General Knowledge/Current Affairs, as almost all schools include them.
3. Practice Time Management
The exam is often timed. Use the past questions to practice answering questions quickly and correctly.
People Also Ask
Is Post-UTME compulsory for all schools?
Almost all public universities and most polytechnics conduct it. Some private schools may not have a written test, but they all have a screening process of some kind to verify your documents.
What if I miss my school’s Post-UTME registration?
If you miss the deadline, you cannot participate for that year. The school will not reopen the portal for you. You have to wait for the next admission cycle or consider a school with a later deadline.
Can I do Post-UTME for two schools at once?
Yes, you can. If you are eligible for more than one school and their screening dates don’t clash, you can register and take part in all of them. This increases your chances.
Do they release Post-UTME results?
Most schools do. They will publish the results on their portal. You log in with your details to see your score. Some only release the final admission list without showing individual scores.
What is the passing mark for Post-UTME?
There is no single passing mark. Your Post-UTME score is added to your JAMB score. Schools will later announce a “cut-off mark” which is the total aggregate score you need. Just try to score as high as you can.
Final Checklist Before Your Screening Day
Before you go, make sure you have:
1. Your printed Post-UTME acknowledgment slip.
2. Your original JAMB result slip.
3. Original and photocopies of your O’level certificates.
4. A valid ID card (Voter’s Card, National ID, International Passport).
5. Writing materials (if allowed).
6. Payment receipt (optional, but good to have).
In short, the Post-UTME screening is a major part of your admission journey. Each school in Nigeria sets its own rules. Your job is to carefully read the requirements on the school’s official website, prepare your documents early, register on time, and study hard for the test. Avoid scams and only get information from the school’s portal. Good luck.