The journey to university admission in Nigeria is often filled with questions, especially when it comes to switching between different modes of entry into higher education. One common transition is moving from JAMB UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) to Direct Entry (DE). This transition can open up opportunities for candidates who have completed their UTME and wish to pursue a direct entry route into universities for the 2025/2026 academic session. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through the process of converting your UTME to Direct Entry (DE), the required eligibility criteria, necessary documents, and the steps to complete the conversion.
Understanding Direct Entry (DE) Conversion
Direct Entry (DE) allows students to gain admission into a university without taking the traditional UTME route, usually because they already have an advanced qualification such as an A’Level result (e.g., JUPEB, IJMB), a National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), or an NCE (National Certificate in Education). This option is ideal for candidates who have completed a diploma, A’Level program, or other advanced studies and wish to bypass the UTME process for entry into higher levels of university education.
However, in some cases, candidates who have already sat for the JAMB UTME exam and later acquire a valid DE qualification may decide to convert their UTME registration to Direct Entry for admission into Nigerian universities. Here’s how you can seamlessly convert your UTME to DE.
Eligibility Criteria for UTME to Direct Entry (DE) Conversion
Before you begin the conversion process, ensure that you meet the following eligibility criteria:
- UTME Registration and Examination: Candidates must have completed the 2025 UTME registration and sat for the exam.
- Valid Direct Entry Qualification: You must possess a valid Direct Entry qualification such as:
- A’Level (JUPEB, IJMB)
- National Diploma (ND)
- Higher National Diploma (HND)
- National Certificate in Education (NCE)
- University degree (for degree holders)
Required Documents for UTME to DE Conversion
When converting your UTME to Direct Entry, you’ll need to have the following documents ready:
- UTME Result Printout: The result of your completed UTME examination.
- O’Level Result Printout: Your secondary school certificate(s), such as WAEC, NECO, or GCE.
- Proof of Advanced-Level Qualification: This could include any of the following:
- JUPEB, IJMB, ND, HND, NCE, or university degree.
- JAMB Admission Letter: If you have a diploma qualification, you may need to provide a JAMB admission letter. If this is unavailable, you might need to undergo a JAMB regularization process.
How to Convert UTME to Direct Entry (DE)
The conversion from UTME to Direct Entry can only be done through accredited JAMB CBT centres or State JAMB offices. Here are the detailed steps to follow:
Step 1: Visit a JAMB-Accredited CBT Centre or State JAMB Office
- To ensure the legitimacy of your conversion, visit a JAMB-accredited CBT centre or a State JAMB office. Unaccredited cybercafés or unauthorized agents should be avoided at all costs to prevent fraudulent activities.
Step 2: Request UTME to DE Conversion
- Once you’re at the JAMB-accredited centre or state office, inform the officials that you wish to convert your UTME registration to Direct Entry. This will prompt them to guide you through the official conversion process.
Step 3: Purchase the UTME to DE Conversion PIN
- To proceed, you will need to purchase a UTME to DE conversion PIN. The typical cost for this service is around ₦3,500. Be sure to get an official receipt for your payment.
Step 4: Fill Out the Conversion Form
- You’ll be asked to fill out the conversion form at the centre. This form will require your personal information as well as academic details such as your UTME result, O’Level result, and advanced-level qualifications.
Step 5: Scan and Upload Required Qualifications
- During this step, you will be required to scan and upload original copies of your UTME result, O’Level certificate, and advanced qualifications (e.g., JUPEB, IJMB, ND, HND, NCE). These documents are necessary for verification before your conversion is approved.
Step 6: Submit the Form and Await Confirmation
- After completing the form and uploading the required documents, submit the form to the JAMB officials. Your profile will be updated to reflect your new Direct Entry status. You will receive a confirmation or DE slip once the process is completed successfully.
After Conversion — What Next?
Once your UTME has been successfully converted to Direct Entry (DE), here’s what you need to do next:
1. Update Your Course and Institution Choices
- After the conversion, make sure to update your choice of course and institution as necessary. This update should match your new Direct Entry status and the advanced qualifications that you now possess.
2. Print Your Direct Entry Registration Slip
- Once your conversion is complete, ensure that you print your Direct Entry registration slip. This slip is an important reference document during the admission processing and will be required when you are invited for screening or admission.
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Additional Tips for Successful UTME to DE Conversion
- Ensure Timely Submission: Make sure you complete your conversion process well ahead of the admission deadline to avoid delays.
- Check Eligibility Period: Keep in mind that the conversion must be done within the stipulated time frame set by JAMB. Be sure to check for any changes in dates or guidelines on the JAMB website.
- Use Reliable JAMB Centers: Always use accredited centres to avoid fraudulent practices. These centres are registered with JAMB and will ensure your documents are correctly processed.
Conclusion
Converting your UTME registration to Direct Entry opens up opportunities for candidates who have an advanced qualification like JUPEB, IJMB, ND, HND, or NCE. It’s a relatively straightforward process but requires careful attention to detail and compliance with all necessary guidelines.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can smoothly transition into the Direct Entry route for university admission. Ensure that you have all the required documents, follow the steps at accredited centres, and update your course and institution choices promptly after conversion. With proper planning, you can successfully secure your place in a Nigerian university for the 2025/2026 academic session.