Last updated on October 24th, 2024 at 10:36 am
The Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB) is one of the most popular and trusted pathways to gaining admission into Nigerian universities, especially for those looking for an alternative to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). Established in 1976 by the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, and accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC), IJMB provides a gateway for students to secure 200-level admission into Nigerian universities and even some foreign institutions.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about IJMB—from what it is and how to register to school fees, subject combinations, and the universities that accept it.
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What Is IJMB?
IJMB is a nine-month advanced level programme designed for students who want to bypass the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and enter university directly into the 200 level. Unlike the traditional admission process, IJMB students use their results to apply for university admission through Direct Entry (DE), provided they meet the required points.
One of the major advantages of IJMB is its acceptance across most Nigerian universities. Additionally, students who successfully complete the programme can study virtually any course, from Medicine to Law, Engineering, or the Arts.
Benefits of IJMB
- Direct Entry Admission: IJMB allows students to enter universities directly into 200 level without needing to sit for UTME.
- Wide Acceptance: Over 70 universities in Nigeria accept IJMB, and it is increasingly being recognized by universities in countries like Ghana, Cameroon, and even the UK.
- Flexible Duration: The programme is completed within 9 to 12 months, after which students can proceed to apply for Direct Entry admission.
- Multiple Subject Combinations: You can select subject combinations based on the course you want to study at university.
How to Register for IJMB
1. Find an Accredited IJMB Study Centre
Before you register for IJMB, it’s important to find an accredited study centre. IJMB centres are available across Nigeria, but not all are reliable or accredited by the regulatory bodies. Ensure that the centre you choose offers proper guidance, qualified tutors, and adequate facilities to help you succeed.
Some of the best centres are located in cities like Lagos, Zaria, Abuja, Ibadan, and Port Harcourt. Many centres also offer hostel facilities for students who need accommodation.
2. Complete Your Registration
Most IJMB study centres offer registration both online and offline. To register:
- Visit the website of the accredited centre or physically visit the centre.
- Fill out the registration form, providing accurate personal details such as your name, email, phone number, and the subject combination you wish to study.
- Submit required documents (e.g., passport photographs, O’Level results, and a valid ID).
- Make the registration payment, which typically ranges from ₦5,000 to ₦15,000, depending on the centre.
3. Prepare for the Programme
After registering, you’ll be assigned to your study centre, where you’ll attend lectures for the duration of the programme (usually 9 months). These lectures are designed to cover your chosen subject combination in preparation for the IJMB final exams.
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IJMB School Fees
The cost of the IJMB programme varies depending on the study centre and location. Generally, fees range between ₦120,000 to ₦250,000, and this covers:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Accommodation fees (where applicable)
- Examination fees
- Study materials (such as textbooks and handouts)
Typically, you can pay in installments, depending on the policy of your study centre. It’s advisable to confirm the full breakdown of fees before you begin to ensure you can meet the financial commitment required for the programme.
IJMB Subject Combinations and Courses
Choosing the right subject combination is critical to your success in IJMB. Your subject combination will determine the course you can study at the university level. IJMB offers a wide variety of subjects, allowing students to select combinations tailored to their desired field of study.
Here are some popular IJMB subject combinations based on different fields of study:
- Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing, or Health Sciences:
- Chemistry, Physics, Biology
- Engineering:
- Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry
- Law:
- Literature in English, Government, CRS/IRS
- Social Sciences (Economics, Accounting, Business Admin):
- Economics, Mathematics, Government
- Art Courses (Mass Communication, English, Linguistics):
- Literature, Government, CRS/IRS
- Agriculture:
- Chemistry, Biology, Agricultural Science
Your choice of subjects must align with the course you intend to pursue at the university, as universities have specific requirements for each course. To maximize your chances, ensure you consult with your study centre for guidance on subject combinations.
How IJMB Works
The IJMB programme involves nine months of study, after which students take a final exam. The results are graded based on a points system, where the scores in each subject are converted into points:
- A = 5 points
- B = 4 points
- C = 3 points
- D = 2 points
- E = 1 point
- F = 0 points
The total points are calculated by adding the scores of the three subjects you studied. For instance, if you score an A (5 points) in Chemistry, a B (4 points) in Physics, and a C (3 points) in Biology, your total points would be 5 + 4 + 3 = 12 points.
Most universities require a minimum of 5-8 points to qualify for admission through Direct Entry, but more competitive courses like Medicine or Law may demand higher points (typically 12-15).
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Universities That Accept IJMB
One of the significant advantages of IJMB is its acceptance in a large number of Nigerian universities. Here’s a list of some of the top universities in Nigeria that accept IJMB:
Federal Universities:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- University of Jos (UNIJOS)
- University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)
- Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)
State Universities:
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Kwara State University (KWASU)
- Kano State University of Science and Technology (KUST)
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
Private Universities:
- Babcock University
- Covenant University
- Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
- Crescent University
- Igbinedion University
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How to Apply for Direct Entry Admission with IJMB
Once you successfully complete the IJMB programme and obtain your result, the next step is to apply for admission into a university through Direct Entry. Here’s how:
- Purchase a Direct Entry (DE) form from JAMB.
- Submit your IJMB result along with your other credentials.
- Select your preferred university and course.
- Attend a screening or interview, depending on the university’s requirements.
- Wait for your admission status on the JAMB CAPS portal.
Conclusion: Is IJMB the Right Choice for You?
IJMB provides a fantastic opportunity for students who want to bypass the stress and uncertainty of UTME and secure admission into Nigerian universities at the 200 level. With a wide range of subject combinations, flexible tuition, and acceptance by over 70 universities, it’s an excellent alternative for students who want a smoother pathway to higher education.
Whether you’re aiming to study Medicine, Engineering, Law, or any other course, IJMB can help you achieve your goals with the right preparation and dedication. Ensure you choose an accredited centre, stay focused during your studies, and aim for the best possible score to increase your chances of gaining admission.
