The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has now approved the conversion of Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to Direct Entry.
What is UTME to Direct Entry Conversion?
The UTME to Direct Entry conversion is simply a process which candidates who have already registered for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination to switch their application to DE if they are eligible.
Why UTME to Direct Entry Conversion?
Ideally, the conversion is only for those who are qualified for DE admission despite initially registering for UTME. Also, once the conversion is approved, candidates will be opportune to start from 200 level in their institutions’ choice as opposed to the regular UTME candidates that start from 100 level.
UTME to Direct Entry Conversion Eligibility
If you are considering a conversion from your initially registered UTME to DE, then you must at least possess any of the following credentials;
- A-Level (Advanced level) Certificate
- National Diploma (ND)
- Higher National Diploma (HND)
- National Certificate of Education (NCE)
- IJMB/JUPEB or any other advanced qualification which is recognised
Requirements Needed to Convert UTME to Direct Entry
To successfully convert UTME to Direct Entry, you will be required to have the following in your possession;
- JAMB UTME registration slip
- Original copies of your advanced-level qualification (OND, HND, NCE, etc.)
- O’Level results (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB) uploaded on the JAMB portal
- JAMB e-PIN for UTME to DE conversion (to be purchased)
How to Convert UTME to Direct Entry (DE) 2025
Considering that you are qualified for the UTME conversion to DE, you are to proceed as follows for a smooth process;
- First of all, you will have to visit a JAMB accredited CBT centre
- Once you have gotten there, request the UTME to DE conversion form
- Purchase the UTME to Direct Entry conversion pin
- Fill out the form with the required details
- Scan and upload all qualifications needed for the conversion and submit the form
- Once it has been completed, your direct entry status will reflect on your profile and you will get a confirmation slip
What Should I Do After the Conversion?
Once the conversion is successfully initiated, you are to change your course and institution to match your DE, precisely the advanced-level qualification which you used to avoid missing out of the admission.
You can also print out the registration slip for the direct entry for reference purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I still write UTME after converting to Direct?
No, note that it is not possible to sit for the UTME exams once you have successfully convert to DE.
2. Can I revert my Direct Entry application back to UTME?
No, the conversion is absolute, in other words, it can not be reverted back.
3. What happens if my Direct Entry application is rejected by my chosen institution?
If your application is being rejected, there is an option such as an application into another institution while the change of institution period is underway.
4. Do I need to write a special exam for Direct Entry?
Direct Entry usually do not require writing a special exam although there are institutions that may require you to take a screening test or thereabout.
5. Is awaiting results allowed for Direct Entry?
Yes, awaiting results is allowed for direct entry. Still, you must upload the results to the JAMB portal before the institution’s admission process begin.
6. How much does it cost to convert UTME to DE?
The conversion fee is usually stated by JAMB during the process. It’s essential to have sufficient funds in your e-wallet or make the payment through the approved channels.
7. Can I use my JAMB UTME score for DE admission after conversion?
No, your JAMB UTME score will no longer be relevant. Admission will be based on your A-Level qualifications or equivalent after the conversion.
8. What happens to my UTME registration after converting to DE?
Your UTME application is updated to a Direct Entry application, and you will no longer be considered for UTME admission.
9. Are all universities in Nigeria accepting Direct Entry applications?
Most universities in Nigeria accept Direct Entry applications, but it’s advisable to confirm the specific requirements of your chosen institution before converting.
10. Do I need to re-register for JAMB if I convert to Direct Entry?
No, you don’t need to re-register for JAMB. The conversion updates your existing application to Direct Entry.
11. Can I apply for the same course after converting to DE?
Yes, you can apply for the same course, provided your Direct Entry qualifications meet the course and institution’s admission requirements.
12. Will I still use JAMB CAPS for admission after converting to DE?
Yes, JAMB CAPS will process your admission after the conversion. You can check your admission status, accept or reject offers, and print your admission letter through CAPS.
13. Is the UTME to DE conversion process available for part-time or distance learning programs?
Yes, the conversion process can apply to both full-time and part-time programs, depending on the institution’s policies.
14. When is the deadline for converting UTME to Direct Entry?
JAMB will announce the deadline for UTME to DE conversions. Candidates should monitor the JAMB portal or official news sources for updates.
15. Can I convert UTME to DE if I already sat for the UTME exam?
Yes, you can convert your UTME to DE even after sitting for the UTME exam, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for DE.
16. Will my O-Level result still be required after converting to DE?
Yes, your O-Level result is still required for DE admissions, as it is part of the general entry requirements for Nigerian universities.
17. Can I convert my UTME to DE multiple times?
No, the conversion is a one-time process per registration cycle. Ensure you have all the necessary documents and qualifications before proceeding.
18. Where can I get help with my UTME to DE conversion?
You can visit the nearest JAMB office, contact JAMB support through the e-Facility portal, or seek assistance from an accredited JAMB registration centre.
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