Direct Entry (DE) Candidates to Write UTME Exam: JAMB Introduces New Admission Criteria For DE Applicants

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has introduced new admission criteria for Direct Entry (DE) applicants in Nigeria. This significant change aims to standardize the admission process, ensure fairness, and provide an opportunity for DE candidates to showcase their academic abilities. In this comprehensive article, we will discuss the new policies and their implications for DE applicants, as well as provide essential information about the exam requirements and how to prepare effectively.

Overview of the New Admission Criteria

Exam Requirement for Direct Entry Candidates

Starting from the 2024/2025 academic session, DE candidates seeking admission to Nigerian universities will now be required to sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) alongside other applicants. This new policy is a substantial departure from previous practices, where DE candidates were exempted from writing the exam.

The Purpose of the New Policy

The introduction of the exam requirement for DE candidates serves several important purposes. Firstly, it allows institutions to have a standardized assessment of the candidates’ academic abilities, ensuring transparency and fairness in the admission process. Secondly, it provides an opportunity for DE candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and competencies in their respective fields of study. Lastly, it aligns the admission criteria for both UTME and DE candidates, creating a more balanced and inclusive evaluation process.

Implications of the New Admission Criteria

Increased Competition for Direct Entry Applicants

With the new policy in place, DE candidates will face increased competition, as they now have to compete with UTME candidates for admission slots. This development calls for more intensive preparation on the part of DE applicants to secure their desired admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions.

Emphasis on Academic Competence and Preparedness

The introduction of the exam requirement for Direct Entry candidates highlights the importance of academic competence and preparedness. DE applicants must dedicate adequate time and effort to prepare effectively for the UTME to increase their chances of securing admission.

More Transparent and Fair Admission Process

The new policy promotes transparency and fairness by standardizing the admission process for all candidates. Both UTME and DE applicants are now evaluated based on the same criteria, ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to gain admission into Nigerian higher institutions.

Understanding the Exam Requirement for Direct Entry Candidates

UTME Exam for Direct Entry Candidates

The UTME exam, conducted by JAMB, is designed to assess the academic competence and preparedness of candidates for admission into Nigerian universities and other higher institutions. The exam covers a range of subjects within the candidates’ chosen fields of study and tests their critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills.

Importance of the Exam for Direct Entry Candidates

The UTME exam holds significant importance for DE candidates, as it provides them with an opportunity to showcase their knowledge and competencies in their respective fields. By performing well in the exam, DE candidates can increase their chances of securing admission into their desired Nigerian tertiary institutions.

Preparing for the UTME Exam as a Direct Entry Candidate

Stay Updated with Official JAMB Guidelines

As a DE applicant, it’s essential to stay updated with the official JAMB guidelines and announcements regarding the UTME exam. This information will help you understand the exam requirements and prepare accordingly.

Dedicate Adequate Time and Effort

Preparing for the UTME exam requires a considerable amount of time and effort. As a DE candidate, you must dedicate adequate time to study for the exam and develop a strong understanding of the subjects within your chosen field of study.

Develop a Study Plan

Creating a study plan is crucial for effective preparation. Outline your study objectives, set a schedule, and allocate time for each subject. This approach will help you stay organized and focused throughout your preparation.

Use Relevant Study Materials

Make use of relevant study materials, including textbooks, past questions, and online resources, to enhance your understanding of the exam topics. These resources will provide you with valuable insights into the UTME exam format and help you develop effective strategies for tackling the questions.

Practice Regularly

Regular practice is vital for success in the UTME exam. Allocate time for frequent practice sessions and assess your progress. This approach will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to focus on areas that need improvement.

The Artistic Merit of the UTME Exam

While the primary purpose of the UTME exam is to evaluate the academic competence of candidates, the assessment also exhibits elements of artistic merit. The exam reflects the literary and analytical skills of candidates, as they are required to express their understanding of various subjects within their chosen field of study. Additionally, the exam assesses critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication, all of which contribute to the artistic value of the assessment process.

The Impact of the New Admission Criteria on Nigerian Tertiary Institutions

Enhanced Transparency and Accountability

The new policy promotes transparency, accountability, and good governance in the Nigerian education sector. By standardizing the admission process, JAMB is taking a significant step towards enhancing the growth of the nation’s education sector and changing the negative narrative of A’level admissions into higher institutions.

Improved Quality of Education

The new admission criteria are expected to improve the overall quality of education in Nigerian tertiary institutions. By ensuring that all candidates, including DE applicants, undergo a standardized evaluation process, institutions can admit students who possess the required academic competencies and skills, ultimately contributing to better learning outcomes.

Increased Revenue for JAMB

The new policy is also expected to generate additional revenue for JAMB. With DE candidates now required to sit for the UTME exam, the board will receive more funds from exam registration fees, which can be channeled towards improving its services and promoting the growth of the Nigerian education sector.

Conclusion

The introduction of the exam requirement for Direct Entry candidates marks a significant milestone in JAMB’s efforts to standardize and improve the admission process for Nigerian tertiary institutions. The new policy ensures fairness, transparency, and equal opportunities for all candidates, while also providing DE applicants with a platform to demonstrate their academic abilities.

As a Direct Entry candidate, it’s crucial to understand the implications of the new admission criteria and prepare effectively for the UTME exam. By staying updated with official JAMB guidelines, dedicating adequate time and effort, and using relevant study materials, you can increase your chances of securing admission into your desired Nigerian tertiary institution.

JAMB Introduces New Admission Criteria For Direct Entry Applicants is an essential development that will reshape the admission landscape in Nigeria. The policy holds significant potential to enhance the quality of education, promote transparency and accountability, and contribute to the growth of the nation’s education sector.