The journey to securing a spot in a Nigerian university begins with the UTME, but it doesn’t end there. After acing the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), the next critical step is the Post-UTME. Post-UTME (Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) is a screening exercise conducted by Nigerian universities to further evaluate candidates who have successfully passed the UTME. It serves as an additional measure to gauge the preparedness of students for the rigours of tertiary education.
This stage is where universities assess candidates further to determine their suitability for admission into various courses. Applying for the Post-UTME might seem straightforward, but it involves careful attention to detail and adherence to specific guidelines. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to ensure a smooth application process.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying for the Post-UTME, you must confirm your eligibility. Here’s what you need to do. Ensure that your UTME score meets or exceeds the cut-off mark set by your chosen institution. Also, verify that your subject combination aligns with the requirements of the course you intend to study and the University. Confirm that your O’Level results meet the basic admission requirements, which usually include credit passes in core subjects.
Step 2: Visit the University’s Website
Each university has a specific portal for Post-UTME registration. Go to the official website of your chosen university and locate the Post-UTME registration section. If it’s your first time, you may need to create an account by providing your personal details such as your full name, JAMB registration number, and email address. If you already have an account, simply log in using your credentials.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
After accessing the Post-UTME portal, the next step is to pay the application fee. Most universities offer multiple payment methods, including online payments via credit/debit cards, bank transfers, or direct bank deposits. Ensure that you receive a receipt or confirmation slip after making the payment. This will be needed to complete your registration.
Step 4: Fill in the Application Form
Once your payment is confirmed, you can proceed to fill out the application form. Provide accurate details such as your name, date of birth, state of origin, and contact information. You’ll also be required to enter your UTME score, O’Level results, and the course you wish to apply for. Also, scan and upload required documents such as your passport photograph, UTME result slip, O’Level results, and payment receipt.
Step 5: Get Your Exam Date
After completing the application form, your exam date will be given to you. After this, print out your exam slip, which contains essential details such as the date, time, and venue of your examination.
Step 6: Prepare for the Exam
Preparation is key to succeeding in the Post-UTME. Many universities tend to repeat questions from previous years. Reviewing past Post-UTME questions can give you an edge. The Post-UTME format may vary between universities, so it’s crucial to understand the specific format used by your chosen institution. Also, focus on the subjects relevant to your course of study, and ensure you revise thoroughly.
Step 7: Attend the Exam
On the day of your exam, ensure that you arrive early at the venue. Carry your exam slip, a valid ID, and any other documents required by the university. Pay close attention to instructions given by the invigilators and ensure you adhere to them strictly. Note that time management is crucial during the exam. Allocate time to each section and avoid spending too much time on any one question.
Step 8: Check Your Result
After the Post-UTME, universities typically release the results within a few weeks. Log in to the Post-UTME portal using your credentials to check your result. If you are successful, print out your result slip for record-keeping and further admission processes.