The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced the commencement of the conversion of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to Direct Entry (DE) for the 2023 admission exercise. This conversion process allows eligible candidates to gain admission into 200 level directly without writing the JAMB examination in any Nigerian university. This article provides comprehensive information on the conversion process, eligibility criteria, and the steps involved in the application.
Eligibility Criteria for UTME to DE Conversion
To be eligible for the conversion exercise, candidates must possess at least one of the following credentials:
- A-level
- Ordinary National Diploma (OND)
- National Certificate in Education (NCE)
- Equivalent qualifications
In addition to the credentials mentioned above, candidates must also have at least two A-level passes or their equivalent in subjects related to their desired field of study.
Benefits of Converting UTME to DE
The conversion of UTME to DE offers several benefits to eligible candidates. Some of these benefits include:
Direct Admission into 200 Level
Converting UTME to DE allows candidates to gain direct admission into the 200 level of their desired course in any Nigerian university without having to write the JAMB examination.
Increased Chances of Admission
Since DE candidates have already met specific academic requirements, they have an increased chance of gaining admission compared to their UTME counterparts.
Time-saving
The conversion process saves time for candidates who have already acquired the necessary qualifications, enabling them to continue their education without any delay.
Application Process for UTME to DE Conversion
Candidates who want to convert their UTME information to DE information must follow these steps:
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Before commencing the application process, candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria mentioned earlier.
Step 2: Visit JAMB Accredited CBT Centre
Interested candidates must visit a nearby JAMB accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) center to process the conversion.
Step 3: Provide Necessary Documents
Candidates should present the required documents that prove their eligibility for the conversion process, such as A-level, OND, NCE, or equivalent qualifications.
Step 4: Complete the Application Process
After providing the necessary documents, candidates should carefully complete the application process at the CBT center under the guidance of a center official.
Step 5: Payment
Candidates will be required to make payment for the conversion process at the CBT center.
Step 6: Obtain Confirmation Slip
Once the application process is complete, candidates will receive a confirmation slip as proof of successful conversion.
Factors to Consider Before Converting UTME to DE
While the conversion process offers numerous benefits, candidates should consider the following factors before deciding to convert their UTME to DE:
Compatibility with Desired Course
It is essential to ensure that the qualifications possessed by the candidate are compatible with the desired course of study. This means that the A-level passes or their equivalent must be in subjects related to the intended field of study.
University Requirements
Different universities may have specific requirements for admitting Direct Entry candidates. Therefore, it is crucial to research the requirements of the university you wish to attend and ensure you meet those requirements.
Preference for UTME
Some candidates may prefer to go through the UTME process due to personal reasons, such as wanting to experience the entire university admission process or feeling more confident in their ability to pass the JAMB examination. In such cases, converting to DE might not be the best option.
Frequently Asked Questions about UTME to DE Conversion
The conversion process typically takes a few days to a week, depending on the efficiency of the CBT center and JAMB officials.
It is generally not advisable to reverse the conversion process once it is completed. However, candidates should consult with JAMB officials or the CBT center for further guidance on this matter.
Candidates can apply for both UTME and DE simultaneously. However, they must ensure that they meet the eligibility criteria and requirements for both options.
Conclusion
The JAMB begins the conversion of UTME to Direct Entry for the 2023 admission exercise offers eligible candidates an alternative route to gain admission into Nigerian universities. By carefully considering the eligibility criteria, benefits, and factors involved in the conversion process, candidates can make an informed decision on whether this option is suitable for their educational goals.
