The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially opened the window for candidates who wish to convert their 2026 UTME registration to Direct Entry (DE). This option is designed for candidates who initially registered for UTME but have now obtained higher academic qualifications and would prefer to seek admission directly into 200-level in a Nigerian university.
If you fall into this category, the conversion process allows you to update your admission pathway without starting afresh.
What is Considered Direct Entry?
Direct Entry is an admission route created for candidates who already possess qualifications beyond the Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSCE). Instead of beginning university studies from 100-level like UTME candidates, Direct Entry applicants are typically admitted into 200-level, provided they meet institutional requirements.
Accepted qualifications usually include National Diploma (ND), Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE), Higher National Diploma (HND), Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB), Advanced Level (A-Level) certificates, and other recognized equivalents. The qualification must be relevant to the course you intend to study at the university.
Who Can Convert from UTME to Direct Entry?
Conversion is suitable for candidates who registered and possibly wrote UTME but later obtained a higher qualification such as ND, NCE, IJMB, or A-Level results. It is also appropriate for candidates who now meet Direct Entry requirements and prefer to be considered based on their advanced qualification rather than their UTME score.
However, you must still meet the general O’Level requirements. Most universities require at least five credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics (where applicable to your course).
Additionally, your advanced qualification must align with your chosen course of study. For example, a candidate with an ND in Business Administration is better positioned to apply for a related course rather than an unrelated discipline.
Related News: How to Upload O’level Result on JAMB CAPS 2026
Requirements for UTME Conversion to Direct Entry
Before applying for conversion, ensure that:
- You have a valid UTME registration number.
- You possess a recognized higher qualification with acceptable grades (often Upper Credit for ND/HND or Merit for NCE, depending on the institution).
- Your qualification is related to your intended course of study.
- You meet the O’Level subject requirements for the course.
Universities may have specific CGPA or grading thresholds, so it is advisable to confirm requirements from your chosen institution before proceeding.
How to Convert UTME Registration to Direct Entry 2026
The conversion process is not done entirely online from home because biometric verification is required. After deciding to convert, you must first obtain the JAMB Direct Entry form. Payment is made through approved channels on the official JAMB portal or via authorized vendors.
Once payment is completed, you are required to visit an accredited JAMB registration centre. At the centre, your details will be verified, and your advanced qualification documents will be uploaded to the JAMB portal. Your biometrics and photograph will also be captured again as part of the registration update.
You will need to present your UTME registration number, O’Level results, and your higher qualification certificate or statement of result. After successful registration, you will receive a Direct Entry registration slip as confirmation.
Applying to Universities After Conversion
Completing the JAMB Direct Entry registration does not automatically grant admission. You must still apply to your preferred university.
Most universities require Direct Entry candidates to purchase their admission form through the institution’s portal. You may also be required to submit academic transcripts from your previous institution. Some universities conduct screening exercises, document verification, or interviews for Direct Entry applicants.
After applying and participating in any required screening, monitor your admission status regularly through the JAMB CAPS portal and your chosen university’s admission portal.
If offered admission, you must accept the offer on CAPS within the stipulated timeframe. Failure to do so may result in forfeiture of the admission slot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Ques: Can I convert my UTME registration to Direct Entry after writing the exam?
Ans: Yes. As long as the conversion window is open and you now possess a recognized higher qualification, you can apply for conversion.
Ques: Will I automatically start from 200-level after conversion?
Ans: In most cases, yes. However, final placement depends on the university’s policy and your qualification.
Ques: Do I need to write UTME again after converting to Direct Entry?
Ans: No. Once successfully registered as a Direct Entry candidate, you will not be required to retake UTME for that admission cycle.
Ques: Does conversion guarantee admission?
Ans: No. Admission depends on meeting the university’s Direct Entry requirements and available admission slots.
Ques: Is O’Level still required for Direct Entry candidates?
Ans: Yes. You must still meet the minimum O’Level subject requirements for your chosen course.
Ques: Can I change my course while converting to Direct Entry?
Ans: Yes, but your higher qualification must be relevant to the new course.
Ques: Can HND holders apply for Direct Entry?
Ans: Yes. HND holders are eligible, but admission consideration varies by institution.
Ques: What documents are required for conversion?
Ans: You will need your UTME registration number, O’Level results, and your advanced qualification certificate or statement of result.
Ques: How do I check if my conversion was successful?
Ans: You can confirm through your JAMB profile and Direct Entry registration slip after completing the process at the registration centre.
Ques: Where do I check my admission status after conversion?
Ans: You should monitor both the JAMB CAPS portal and your chosen university’s admission portal.