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Introduction: Understanding the Two Stages of Admission

Every year, millions of Nigerian students dream of securing admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. But before this dream becomes a reality, candidates must go through two major academic hurdles: UTME and Post-UTME.

Many students often confuse the two or assume that scoring high in UTME automatically guarantees admission. Unfortunately, that’s not how the Nigerian admission system works.

This article breaks down, in simple and friendly terms, the key differences between UTME and Post-UTME, their roles in the admission process, and how you can prepare effectively for both. By the time you finish reading, you’ll fully understand how admissions really work—and how to position yourself for success.

What is UTME? (Complete Breakdown)

The Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is a national exam conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). It serves as the first and most important screening stage for gaining admission into any higher institution in Nigeria.

Purpose of UTME

• To test candidates’ academic readiness for higher education.
• To create a fair, standardized system for all students across Nigeria.
• To make an initial selection before schools begin their own screening.

Who Takes UTME?

Every student seeking admission into a Nigerian university, polytechnic, or college of education must sit for the UTME exam.

Format of the Examination

• Computer-Based Test (CBT) only.
• Candidates choose 4 subjects based on their intended course (e.g., Medicine, Law, Engineering, Education).
• UTME lasts 2 hours.
• The exam contains 180–200 questions, depending on the subject.
• Total score is 400 marks.

When UTME Is Written

UTME is conducted once every year—usually between March and April.

What the UTME Score Does

Your JAMB score:

• Determines whether you are eligible to apply for Post-UTME.
• Helps you know which schools you can target.
• Makes up a percentage of your final admission aggregate score.

Scoring high in UTME is important—but it’s not the final step.

What is Post-UTME? (Full Explanation)

After passing UTME, the next stage is the Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (Post-UTME). This is an additional screening conducted by individual institutions to further assess candidates.

Purpose of Post-UTME

• To verify students who applied through JAMB.
• To reduce admission fraud.
• To help institutions select the best candidates.

Forms of Post-UTME Conducted in Nigeria

Different schools use different Post-UTME formats:

• CBT Exam – e.g., UNILAG, UI, UNIBEN.
• Written Exam – less common but still used in some schools.
• Online Screening – used by schools like UNN and LASPOTECH.
• Physical Verification – checking of credentials, O’level results, age, etc.
• Oral Interview – used mostly by specialized institutions.

Eligibility

A candidate becomes eligible for Post-UTME only after meeting the school’s UTME cut-off mark.

Fees

Each school sets its own screening fee, usually between ₦2,000 and ₦5,000.

The Power of Post-UTME

While UTME is a national exam, Post-UTME allows each school to independently evaluate:

• Your academic strength
• Your preparedness
• Your actual suitability for the course

Most importantly, Post-UTME decides whether you get admitted or not.

Major Differences Between UTME and Post-UTME

Below is a clear comparison to help you understand both examinations:

1. Organizing Body

UTME	Post-UTME
Conducted by JAMB nationwide	Conducted by individual institutions

UTME is standardized for everyone, while Post-UTME varies from school to school.

2. Purpose

• UTME screens candidates on a national level.
• Post-UTME screens them individually according to school standards.

3. Format

• UTME is strictly CBT.
• Post-UTME can be CBT, written test, interview, or online screening.

4. Difficulty Level

UTME tests broad secondary school knowledge.
Post-UTME focuses on deeper understanding, speed, and accuracy.

Some students find Post-UTME even harder because schools ask more advanced questions.

5. Score Usage

• UTME score helps you qualify for Post-UTME.
• Post-UTME score determines your final admission.

Many schools use formulas such as:

Aggregate Score = (UTME ÷ 8) + (Post-UTME ÷ 2)

or

(40% UTME) + (60% Post-UTME)

6. Cut-Off Marks

• UTME: JAMB sets a national cut-off (e.g., 140–200).
• Post-UTME: Each school and department sets its own cut-off (e.g., Medicine may require 80%).

7. Regulation

UTME is regulated by laws under the Federal Ministry of Education.
Post-UTME is regulated by individual Senate/Council decisions.

8. Importance in Admission

• UTME gives you the chance to apply.
• Post-UTME determines if you actually gain admission.

This is why scoring 280 in UTME does not guarantee admission if your Post-UTME score is low.

Why Schools Conduct Post-UTME

Many students wonder: “Why do I need another exam after UTME?”

Here’s why:

1. To reduce exam malpractice

With millions writing UTME, schools want to confirm candidates’ true ability.

2. To check O’level results

Some students fake results; Post-UTME helps verify authenticity.

3. To manage high competition

Example:

• 30,000 students apply for Medicine.
• Only 150 spaces available.
• Post-UTME helps select the best.

4. UTME alone cannot determine readiness

Some students score high but are not prepared for higher-level academic work.

Which Is More Important: UTME or Post-UTME?

Both are important, but Post-UTME carries more weight in final admission decisions.

Think of it like this:

• UTME = gate pass.
• Post-UTME = the real interview.

A high UTME score without a good Post-UTME result equals:

No admission.

But a moderate UTME score + excellent Post-UTME score often leads to:

Admission secured.

Common Mistakes Students Make

Avoid these to boost your admission chances:

Mistake 1: Believing UTME alone is enough

You must prepare seriously for Post-UTME too.

Mistake 2: Waiting until screening is announced to start preparing

The best students start revising early.

Mistake 3: Choosing schools you do not qualify for

Always check institutional requirements.

Mistake 4: Using wrong subject combinations

This has disqualified thousands.

Mistake 5: Ignoring O’level requirements

Your WAEC/NECO results matter a lot in aggregate scoring.

How to Prepare for Both UTME and Post-UTME

1. Study the right materials

Use JAMB syllabus and recommended textbooks.

2. Practice past questions regularly

Both exams include recurring patterns.

3. Improve your CBT speed

Practice with CBT apps or computer mock tests.

4. Learn time management

This separates average students from top scorers.

5. Maintain discipline

Studying consistently for a few months is the real secret.

6. Don’t ignore your O’level

A strong WAEC result boosts your admission chances.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between UTME and Post-UTME is the first step toward securing admission into your dream school. While UTME qualifies you, Post-UTME determines your fate. To succeed, prepare well for both, study consistently, and stay updated with your chosen institution’s admission guidelines.

With the right preparation and mindset, admission will not be a struggle—you can absolutely secure that admission this year!

You may also like to read: Post-UTME Past Questions (Free Download): Updated Guide for All Schools in Nigeria