JAMB, which stands for Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, is a Nigerian entrance examination board that conducts exams for admission into tertiary institutions in Nigeria. During JAMB registration, candidates are required to choose their preferred institutions as either first choice, second choice, or both.
Many candidates often wonder if any university in Nigeria accepts second choice candidates. In this article, we will explore the possibility of being offered admission by a university as a second choice candidate.
Does Any University Accept Second Choice?
The short answer is yes, some universities in Nigeria do accept second choice candidates. However, the number of universities that accept second choice candidates varies from year to year and depends on the policies of each institution.
In general, federal universities tend to give priority to first choice candidates, while state universities and private universities may be more flexible and offer admission to second choice candidates.
It is important to note that being offered admission as a second choice candidate is not guaranteed, and candidates should not solely rely on their second choice institution as their only option for admission.
Factors That Affect Admission as a Second Choice Candidate
Several factors can affect the chances of being offered admission as a second choice candidate, including:
-
Availability of Spaces
The availability of spaces in a particular institution can affect the chances of being offered admission as a second choice candidate. If there are limited spaces available in the institution, first choice candidates will be given priority, and second choice candidates may not be considered.
-
Competition
The competition for admission into a particular course can also affect the chances of being offered admission as a second choice candidate. If there are many qualified first choice candidates applying for the same course, the institution may not consider second choice candidates.
-
Performance in JAMB and Post-UTME
The performance of candidates in JAMB and post-UTME exams can also affect their chances of being offered admission as a second choice candidate. Candidates who perform well in these exams may have a higher chance of being offered admission, regardless of whether they chose the institution as their first or second choice.
-
Cut-off Marks
Each institution has its own cut-off mark for admission. Candidates who score below the cut-off mark may not be considered for admission, even if they chose the institution as their first choice.
Tips for Second Choice Candidates
Here are some tips for candidates who chose an institution as their second choice:
-
Apply to more than one institution
Candidates who choose an institution as their second choice should consider applying to other institutions as well. This increases their chances of being offered admission.
-
Perform well in JAMB and Post-UTME
Candidates should aim to perform well in JAMB and post-UTME exams to increase their chances of being offered admission.
-
Choose institutions that accept second choice candidates
Candidates should research institutions that accept second choice candidates and apply to those institutions.
-
Be patient
Being offered admission as a second choice candidate may take longer than being offered admission as a first choice candidate. Candidates should be patient and wait for the admission process to be completed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, some universities in Nigeria do accept second choice candidates, but the number of universities that accept second choice candidates varies from year to year and depends on the policies of each institution. Factors that can affect admission as a second choice candidate include the availability of spaces, competition, performance in JAMB and post-UTME exams, and cut-off marks. Candidates who chose an institution as their second choice should apply to more than one institution, perform well in JAMB and post-UTME exams, choose institutions that accept second choice candidates, and be patient during the admission process.