JAMB Announces UTME to Direct Entry Conversion for 2025: How to Apply

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially opened the conversion process from Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to Direct Entry (DE) for 2025 candidates. This allows qualified UTME candidates with higher qualifications to switch to Direct Entry admission.

What is UTME to DE Conversion?

UTME to DE conversion allows you to:

• Switch from 100-level entry (UTME) to 200-level entry (Direct Entry)
• Leverage your additional qualifications (NCE, OND, A-Level, etc.)
• Potentially gain admission with lower JAMB scores
• Enter university at an advanced level

Who Should Convert?

Consider conversion if you:

• Wrote 2025 JAMB UTME
• Hold Direct Entry qualifications (NCE, OND, IJMB, Cambridge A-Level, etc.)
• Scored lower than expected in UTME
• Want to enter university at 200 level instead of 100 level
• Meet your desired institution's DE requirements

Qualifying Direct Entry Qualifications

Common DE qualifications include:

• NCE (Nigeria Certificate in Education) - for Education programs
• OND (Ordinary National Diploma) - for related degree programs
• IJMB (Interim Joint Matriculation Board) - general entry
• Cambridge A-Level - with required passes
• NCE/ND with Merit or Distinction
• JUPEB (Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board)

How to Convert

Where to Apply: All JAMB-accredited Professional Registration Centres (PRCs) nationwide

Process:

1. Verify your DE qualification meets university requirements
2. Locate the nearest JAMB PRC
3. Visit the center with required documents
4. Request UTME to DE conversion
5. Pay conversion fee (confirm amount at PRC)
6. Complete conversion form
7. Submit supporting documents
8. Receive new DE registration number

Required Documents (Typical)

While JAMB hasn't specified complete requirements, prepare:

• 2025 UTME registration slip
• DE qualification certificates (NCE, OND, etc.)
• O'Level results (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB)
• Birth certificate or age declaration
• Passport photographs
• Valid ID

Important: Verify Before Converting

JAMB emphasizes that candidates should "confirm their qualifications meet the criteria for Direct Entry before applying."

Verification Steps:

1. Check your desired university's DE requirements
2. Confirm your qualification is accepted for your program
3. Verify minimum grade requirements (Merit, Distinction, etc.)
4. Ensure your O'Level results meet program requirements

Don't convert if your qualification isn't accepted - you'll waste money and lose your UTME registration.

Advantages of Direct Entry

• Enter at 200 level: Save one year of study
• Lower score requirements: Some programs have lower DE cut-offs
• Maturity advantage: Your previous qualification may better prepare you
• Career relevance: OND/NCE often aligns with degree program

Considerations Before Converting

Potential Disadvantages:

• Conversion fee (non-refundable)
• Some universities prefer UTME over DE
• Limited DE slots compared to UTME
• May need to change institution if yours doesn't accept your DE qualification

When to Keep UTME:

• Your JAMB score is competitive for your program
• Your institution has limited DE slots
• Your qualification doesn't meet minimum DE requirements
• You prefer 100-level entry for foundation knowledge

After Conversion

Once you convert:

1. Receive new Direct Entry registration number
2. Update institution selection if needed
3. Apply for DE admission at your chosen university
4. Participate in Post-UTME/DE screening (if required)
5. Monitor JAMB CAPS for admission status

Where to Find PRCs

JAMB PRCs are located in:

• All state capitals
• Major cities nationwide
• JAMB state offices
• Accredited CBT centers offering registration services

Visit JAMB's website or call their helpline to locate the nearest PRC.

Important Reminders

• Verify first: Confirm your qualification is accepted before converting
• Check requirements: Each university has different DE criteria
• Keep UTME backup: Don't convert if unsure about DE qualification
• Non-refundable: Conversion fees cannot be refunded
• Visit PRC: Conversion cannot be done online

Contact JAMB

For questions about the conversion process:

• Visit any JAMB office or PRC
• Call JAMB customer service
• Check JAMB.gov.ng for updates
• Email: [email protected]

This conversion option provides flexibility for qualified candidates to optimize their admission chances. Evaluate your options carefully and ensure your DE qualification meets institutional requirements before proceeding.

Source: Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB)