JAMB Announces UTME to Direct Entry Conversion for 2025 Academic Session

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially opened conversion from the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to Direct Entry (DE) admission pathway for the 2025 academic cycle. This service allows candidates with higher qualifications to transition from UTME registration to Direct Entry status.

What is UTME to DE Conversion?

JAMB's conversion service enables candidates who initially registered for UTME but possess qualifications eligible for Direct Entry admission to change their application category. Direct Entry admission allows candidates with advanced qualifications (such as ND, NCE, or A'Levels) to gain admission into 200-level or higher, bypassing 100-level.

Who Should Apply for Conversion

You should consider UTME to DE conversion if you:

• Registered for 2025 UTME
• Hold ND, NCE, HND, A'Level, or equivalent certificates
• Want to gain admission into 200-level or higher
• Meet specific university requirements for Direct Entry in your desired program
• Prefer to complete your degree in 3 years instead of 4 years

Where to Apply

Conversion services are available at all JAMB-accredited Professional Registration Centres (PRCs) nationwide. Visit your nearest PRC with the required documents to initiate the process. This service cannot be completed online from home - you must visit a physical PRC location.

Important Requirements

Before heading to a PRC for conversion, ensure you:

1. Verify eligibility: Confirm your certificates meet Direct Entry criteria for your intended course
2. Check university requirements: Different institutions have varying DE requirements - verify with your target universities
3. Gather documents: Bring original and photocopies of all relevant certificates
4. Prepare JAMB details: Have your 2025 UTME registration number ready

Benefits of Direct Entry

Converting to Direct Entry offers several advantages:

• Time savings: Complete your degree in 3 years instead of 4
• Cost reduction: Pay for fewer academic years
• Advanced placement: Skip foundational courses you've already covered
• Better preparation: Your previous qualifications provide stronger foundation
• Career acceleration: Graduate earlier and enter the workforce sooner

Common Qualifying Certificates

For University:

• National Diploma (ND) with minimum Lower Credit
• Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) with minimum Merit
• GCE A'Level with 2 passes
• IJMB or Cambridge A'Level
• Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB)

For Polytechnics:

• ND for HND admission
• Relevant certificates as specified by institutions

Critical Reminder from JAMB

JAMB emphasized that "candidates are reminded to ensure that their qualifications meet the criteria for Direct Entry before applying." Don't waste money on conversion if your certificates don't qualify. Research your program's specific requirements first or consult with admissions officers at your target institutions.

What Happens After Conversion

Once your conversion is processed:

1. Your JAMB profile changes from UTME to Direct Entry status
2. You can now select Direct Entry as your admission type on JAMB CAPS
3. Universities will evaluate you based on DE criteria, not UTME scores
4. Your previous academic records become primary admission determinants
5. You'll be considered for 200-level or higher admission (depending on qualification)

Need Guidance on Admission Pathways?

Choosing between UTME and Direct Entry admission can be confusing. Ulearngo provides comprehensive guides on Nigerian admission processes, helping you understand requirements, make informed decisions, and prepare appropriate documentation for your chosen pathway.

Source: Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) official announcement