How To Easily Apply For Direct Entry To A University In Nigeria 2025: An Updated Guide
If you have an ND, NCE, HND, A-Level, or JUPEB qualification and want to go straight into 200 level in a Nigerian university, then Direct Entry (DE) is for you. In 2025, applying for DE has been made easier by JAMB and universities across the country.
This updated guide explains everything you need to know to successfully apply for Direct Entry admission in Nigeria.
What is Direct Entry (DE)?
Direct Entry is a mode of admission that allows candidates with advanced qualifications (like ND, NCE, IJMB, JUPEB, HND, or A-levels) to gain admission directly into 200 level in a Nigerian university, instead of starting from 100 level.
Who is Eligible for Direct Entry?
You can apply for DE if you have any of these qualifications:
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National Diploma (ND)
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Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE)
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Higher National Diploma (HND)
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IJMB or JUPEB A-Level Result
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Bachelor’s Degree (in rare cases)
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Cambridge A-Level or equivalent
You must also have at least 5 O’Level credits including English and Mathematics.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Direct Entry in Nigeria (2025)
1. Get Your DE Qualification Ready
Ensure you have your:
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ND/NCE/HND/IJMB/JUPEB result (with transcript or statement of result)
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O’Level result (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB)
2. Visit a JAMB Accredited CBT Centre
Direct Entry applicants must create a JAMB profile and register through a CBT centre (not online personally). Go with:
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Your National Identification Number (NIN)
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O’Level result
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Your A-Level/ND/NCE/JUPEB result
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Birth Certificate
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Passport photo
NOTE: DE candidates don’t sit for UTME, but they must still register with JAMB.
3. Buy the JAMB Direct Entry Form
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The form costs ₦3,500
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Registration fee: ₦700
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CBT service fee: ₦700
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Total cost: about ₦5,000 – ₦6,000
You can buy it at any JAMB CBT centre or through the JAMB portal.
4. Fill the JAMB Direct Entry Form Correctly
Make sure you:
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Choose the right university and course
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Upload your qualifications and documents
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Review your details before submission
5. Print Your JAMB Acknowledgement Slip
After submitting, print your:
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JAMB registration slip
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Acknowledgement slip
This will serve as proof of your application.
What Happens After JAMB DE Registration?
After applying:
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Wait for your chosen university to release its Post-DE screening form
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Apply for the screening via the university’s portal
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Upload your documents and attend any physical or online screening
Important Things to Note
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Direct Entry is only for admission into 200 level, not 100 level
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Some competitive courses (like Medicine, Law, Engineering) may not accept DE
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Most universities require a minimum of Upper Credit or Merit for ND/NCE holders
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You can select up to two universities, but some schools may not accept second choice
2025 Direct Entry Application Deadline
JAMB usually opens DE application around February or March, and it runs for about 6–8 weeks. Keep checking the JAMB portal and your preferred university website for updates.
Final Thoughts
Applying for Direct Entry in Nigeria is simple if you follow the right steps. Make sure your documents are ready, register early, and always follow the official guidelines from JAMB and the universities.
With this guide, your journey to entering 200 level in 2025 just got easier. Whether you studied at a polytechnic, college of education, or completed a JUPEB program, your dream of earning a degree is within reach.