Last updated on October 24th, 2024 at 10:53 am
The Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB) is one of the most reliable and efficient pathways for gaining Direct Entry (DE) admission into Nigerian universities. Since its establishment, JUPEB has become a popular option for students who seek to bypass the traditional Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and gain admission into 200-level undergraduate programs. This program offers students the chance to fast-track their academic careers while providing them with a high level of education.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about JUPEB, including what it is, how to register, school fees, subject combinations, courses, and universities that accept JUPEB for admission.
What Is JUPEB?
JUPEB (Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board) is a national examinations body established by the Federal Government of Nigeria and coordinated by the University of Lagos (UNILAG). Its primary aim is to provide an alternative route for students to gain Direct Entry admission into the 200-level of Nigerian universities.
The program lasts for 9-12 months (equivalent to one academic session) and covers advanced level subjects relevant to the student’s intended university course. Upon completion of the program, students sit for JUPEB exams, and the results can be used to gain admission into partnering universities both in Nigeria and some foreign institutions.
JUPEB is designed to offer academic advancement, provide students with a foundation for their university courses, and help them bypass the JAMB UTME.
JUPEB Eligibility and Requirements
To apply for JUPEB, students must meet certain eligibility criteria. Here are the key requirements:
- O’Level Certificate: Candidates must possess a minimum of five O’Level credits, including English and Mathematics, in relevant subjects. These credits can be obtained in either WAEC, NECO, GCE, or NABTEB, and must be achieved in not more than two sittings.
- Awaiting Result: Students who are still awaiting their O’Level results can also apply for JUPEB but must have the results ready before the completion of the program.
- No JAMB Requirement: JUPEB does not require candidates to take the JAMB UTME exam, making it an attractive option for students who want to bypass the traditional admission process.
How to Register for JUPEB
The registration process for JUPEB is straightforward, and it begins with choosing an accredited JUPEB center or institution where you’ll undergo the program. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Find an Accredited JUPEB Center
JUPEB centers are available across Nigeria, including in public universities, private universities, and other institutions. You should confirm that the center is accredited by JUPEB before registering. Popular JUPEB centers include:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- Lagos State University (LASU)
2. Purchase a JUPEB Registration Form
Once you have chosen your preferred JUPEB center, you will need to purchase a registration form. The cost of the form varies depending on the institution, but it typically ranges between ₦10,000 and ₦15,000.
You can obtain the form either by visiting the JUPEB center in person or through the institution’s official website.
3. Complete the Registration
After purchasing the form, fill it out with the required details, including:
- Personal information (name, date of birth, address, etc.)
- O’Level result or details of your awaiting result
- Preferred subject combination
- Contact information (phone number and email)
You may also be required to upload a passport photograph and other supporting documents.
4. Submit the Form and Make Payments
Once you have completed the form, submit it through the designated portal or in person at the JUPEB center. You will also be required to make full or partial payment of the tuition fees for the program.
JUPEB School Fees
The cost of JUPEB programs varies depending on the institution you choose. However, the general range for JUPEB fees is between ₦200,000 and ₦400,000 for the entire duration of the program.
These fees typically cover:
- Tuition: Lectures for 9-12 months on the chosen subjects
- Examination fees: Cost for registering for the JUPEB exams
- Study materials: Books and other educational resources
- Accommodation (if offered by the center)
It’s important to research the specific costs at the institution you intend to attend as some private universities may charge higher fees than public universities.
JUPEB Subject Combinations
The subject combination for JUPEB depends on the course you wish to study at the university. The program offers subjects that are grouped into Science, Arts, and Social Sciences. Below are the subject combinations based on popular courses:
1. Science Courses
- Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy: Biology, Chemistry, Physics
- Engineering, Computer Science: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry
- Agriculture, Veterinary Medicine: Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry
2. Arts and Humanities
- Law, Mass Communication: Government, Literature, CRS/IRS
- English, Linguistics: Literature, Government, CRS/IRS
- Theatre Arts, Music: Literature, CRS/IRS, Government
3. Social Sciences
- Economics, Accounting, Business Administration: Economics, Government, Mathematics
- Political Science, Sociology: Government, Economics, CRS/IRS
- Geography, Urban and Regional Planning: Geography, Mathematics, Economics
It’s crucial to choose the subject combination that aligns with the course you intend to study at the university, as this will determine your eligibility for admission.
JUPEB Exam and Grading System
At the end of the JUPEB program, students are required to sit for the JUPEB exams. The exams are conducted on the selected subjects and graded using a point system.
Each subject is graded based on A, B, C, D, E, and F, where:
- A = 5 points
- B = 4 points
- C = 3 points
- D = 2 points
- E = 1 point
- F = 0 points
To gain admission into the 200-level of a university, students are expected to obtain a minimum of 5 points in relevant subjects, with some competitive courses like Medicine and Law requiring higher points (up to 12-15 points).
Universities That Accept JUPEB for Direct Entry
One of the key advantages of the JUPEB program is its wide acceptance across Nigerian universities. Over 80 universities in Nigeria accept JUPEB results for Direct Entry admissions, including:
Federal Universities:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria
- Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA)
State Universities:
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
- Kwara State University (KWASU)
- Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
Private Universities:
- Babcock University
- Covenant University
- Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
- Igbinedion University
- Redeemer’s University
Advantages of JUPEB
The JUPEB program offers several advantages for students seeking Direct Entry admission. These include:
- Direct Entry Admission to 200 Level: Successful JUPEB students can gain admission into 200-level programs at their preferred universities without writing JAMB UTME.
- Wide Recognition: Over 80 universities in Nigeria accept JUPEB results, increasing the chances of gaining admission.
- No JAMB Requirement: JUPEB eliminates the need for the JAMB UTME exam, which is a significant hurdle for many students.
- Flexibility: Students have the option to choose from a wide range of courses and subject combinations, allowing them to pursue their desired academic paths.
How to Gain Admission with JUPEB Results
Once you have completed your JUPEB program and obtained your results, follow these steps to gain admission:
- Apply for Direct Entry (DE): Register for the JAMB Direct Entry form, where you will submit your JUPEB results.
- Select Preferred Universities: Choose up to four universities during your DE registration and ensure that they accept JUPEB for your chosen course.
- Check for Admission: Monitor your admission status via the JAMB CAPS portal or the university’s admission portal.
- Accept Your Admission: Once you are offered admission, accept it through the JAMB CAPS portal and proceed with your university’s admission process.
Conclusion: Why Choose JUPEB?
JUPEB offers a unique opportunity for students to fast-track their academic journey and gain admission into the 200-level of their desired courses. With its growing acceptance in Nigerian universities and the flexibility it provides, JUPEB remains one of the best alternatives to the traditional JAMB UTME.
