Applying for JAMB Direct Entry (DE) can be a game-changer for students looking to skip the first year of university and continue their education seamlessly.
many applicants make avoidable mistakes that delay their admission or even lead to disqualification.
If you’re planning to apply for the 2025/2026 session, you need to be extra careful because a small error can cost you a whole academic year.
I remember helping a friend with his JAMB DE application last year. He was confident he had everything right until he realized he uploaded the
wrong O’Level result. By the time he noticed, the portal had closed, and he had to wait another year. Stories like this are common, and they don’t have to be yours.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most common mistakes students make during their JAMB Direct Entry application and how you can avoid them.
Whether it’s wrong document uploads, missing deadlines, or choosing the wrong institution, these errors can be easily prevented with the right information.
You don’t need to be an expert to get it right just careful and well-informed. Let’s make sure your application is smooth and successful so you can focus on preparing for your next academic journey
Here are the top tips to know before applying DE which will help you to avoid getting rejecting.
What are the minimum O’Level subject combinations for JAMB Direct Entry 2025/2026?
If you’re applying for JAMB Direct Entry (DE) in 2025/2026, your O’Level results play a crucial role in determining your eligibility.
Generally, you’ll need five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, in one or two sittings.
For example:
Science & Engineering courses Medicine Pharmacy Engineering often require credits in Physics Chemistry, Biology Mathematics depending on the school you may apply
Social Sciences & Arts Law Mass Communication Economics may accept subjects like Literature Government, or Commerce instead of core sciences.
Education & Humanities (English, History) may have flexible combinations but still require English credit.
here are the Common Mistakes you should Avoid during the Application process
Assuming All Schools Have the Same Requirements – Some universities (like UNILAG or UI) may demand stricter subject combinations than others. Always check their official DE guidelines.
Using Two-Sitting Results Carelessly While JAMB allows two sittings, some schools (especially competitive ones) prefer a single sitting. Confirm before applying.
Can I Use a Diploma from a Polytechnic for JAMB Direct Entry in 2025?
Yes! Polytechnics’ National Diplomas (ND) and Higher National Diplomas (HND) are widely accepted for JAMB Direct Entry but with conditions:
Accreditation Matters Ensure your polytechnic is recognized by NBTE (National Board for Technical Education). Unaccredited programs may lead to disqualification.
Minimum Grade Requirement – Most schools require at least a Lower Credit (or Pass in some cases).
Top universities like UNN or OAU may demand Upper Credit for competitive courses.
Course Alignment Your diploma must be related to your desired degree.
For example, an ND in Electrical Engineering qualifies for Electrical/Electronics Engineering but not for Medicine.
Does JAMB Accept NCE Results for Direct Entry in 2025/2026?
Yes! The Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) is valid for JAMB Direct Entry, especially for:
Education-based degrees (B.Ed, B.A. Ed, B.Sc. Ed).
Some Arts/Social Science courses (e.g., NCE in English can qualify for English/Linguistics).
But it’s better to understand this
Grade Requirements Most schools accept Merit Pass and above, but top-tier universities may require Distinction.
Subject Relevance An NCE in Primary Education may not qualify for Law or Engineering. Stick to related fields.
Combination with O’Level Even with NCE, you still need 5 O’Level credits (including English & Math) unless stated otherwise.
How many A’Level passes do I need to qualify for JAMB Direct Entry
JAMB Direct Entry allows students with advanced qualifications to gain admission into 200-level (second year) in Nigerian universities without taking the UTME.
To be eligible, your two A’Level passes must be in subjects related to your desired course. For example:
If you’re applying for Medicine, you’ll need passes in Biology and Chemistry.
For Accounting or Economics, Mathematics and Economics may be required.
Programs like IJMB, JUPEB, and Cambridge A-Level are widely accepted, but you must confirm with your chosen university to ensure your qualifications meet their specific criteria
Step by Step Guide to Applying for JAMB Direct Entry 2025 Without Mistakes
Applying for JAMB Direct Entry (DE) can be confusing if you don’t know the right steps. But don’t worry this simple guide will help you avoid common mistakes and submit your application smoothly for 2025 admissions.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Before anything else, ensure you qualify for Direct Entry requirements above
Tip: Check JAMB’s official brochure to confirm if your qualification is accepted for your desired course.
Step 2: Get Your Documents Ready
Gather the following:
A’Level or diploma certificate
O’Level result(s) (WAEC/NECO)
Birth certificate or affidavit
Recent passport photo (white background)
Step 3: Create a JAMB Profile
Visit the JAMB DE portal (www.jamb.gov.ng).
Click “Create an account” and fill in your details.
You’ll receive a confirmation email verify it before proceeding.
Step 4: Purchase the Direct Entry Form
Pay the application fee via JAMB’s approved payment methods (bank, online,).
Keep your payment receipt safe you’ll need it later.
Step 5: Complete Your Application
Log in to your JAMB profile and fill in:
Personal details
Academic qualifications
Preferred institution & course
Double-check for errors before submission.
Step 6: Print Your Registration Slip
After submission, print your DE registration slip. This confirms your application and contains your exam details
Step 7: Wait for Admission Processing
JAMB and your chosen school will review your application.
Check your email and JAMB portal regularly for updates.
What Happens After Submitting My JAMB Direct Entry Form in 2025?
Submitting your JAMB Direct Entry (DE) form is just the first step toward securing admission into a Nigerian university. After submission, here’s what you should expect and do next:
1. Acknowledgement Slip & Registration Number
Once you submit your form, JAMB will generate an acknowledgment slip containing your registration number. Keep this safe you’ll need it for all future JAMB processes, including checking your admission status.
2. Uploading O’Level & A’Level Results
JAMB requires all DE candidates to upload their O’Level (WAEC, NECO, etc.) and A’Level (ND, NCE, IJMB, JUPEB, etc.) results on their JAMB profile. If you don’t do this, your admission processing may be delayed or even denied.
3. JAMB CAPS: Checking Admission Status
After submission, JAMB will process your application, and universities will start offering admissions through the Central Admission Processing System (CAPS). To check your status:
Visit JAMB CAPS.
Log in with your email and password.
Click on “Check Admission Status” and select your exam year.
If admitted, accept or reject the offer on CAPS.
4. When Will JAMB Start Giving Direct Entry Admissions for 2025?
JAMB DE admissions usually begin weeks after the UTME admissions start, often around August to October 2025.
this depends on individual universities some may release their lists earlier or later. Keep checking CAPS regularly so this is not the issues.
5. Can I Still Apply for Direct Entry If I Missed the UTME Deadline?
Yes! you can, JAMB Direct Entry is a separate process from UTME. Even if you missed the UTME deadline, you can still apply for DE as long as the DE registration window is open. Just ensure you meet the requirements A’Level qualifications.
IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL 2025 DE CANDIDATES
How to Confirm Your NIPED Status on JAMB Portal
For 2025 Direct Entry (DE) candidates, verifying your NIPED status on the JAMB portal is a critical step to ensure your admission eligibility.
The NIPED (National Integrated Postsecondary Education Data) confirmation validates the authenticity of your uploaded results, confirming they meet JAMB’s requirements.
Why NIPED Verification Matters
Admission Readiness Without NIPED confirmation, institutions may disqualify your application, regardless of your qualifications.
Result Authenticity It confirms that your O’Level results (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, etc.) are properly uploaded and recognized.
Compliance with JAMB Guidelines Ensures your documents align with the latest DE requirements.
How to Check Your NIPED Status
Log in to Your JAMB Portal Visit JAMB’s official DE portal and enter your credentials.
Navigate to NIPED Status Look for the NIPED confirmation tab under your dashboard.
Verify O’Level Upload Ensure your results are correctly displayed in the required format (e.g., WAEC scratch card uploads).
⚠ Important Note: If your NIPED status is missing or incomplete, contact JAMB support immediately to rectify the issue before the admission deadline.
Conclusion
so those are the coming mistake to avoid when applying DE admission and I have a sure as son as follows those steps your application will be successful. If you have any questions leave it in the comments section I will answer your question.
