5 Factors to Consider When Choosing An Institution [UPDATED]

5 things UTME candidates should consider before choosing an institution

Many prospective UTME candidates register for the JAMB examination without having a clear idea of which institution or school to choose. If you are reading this guide, it is likely that you are preparing for the 2026 JAMB examination. This guide is designed to help you choose the right institution for your course of study.

Selecting just any institution can reduce your chances of gaining admission or negatively affect your academic journey, even if you are eventually offered admission.

Important Factors to Consider Before Choosing an Institution

Here are important factors to consider before picking an institution:

Ensure the School and Your Course of Study Are Accredited

▪ This is the most important factor to consider when choosing an institution.
▪ Some schools offer courses that are not accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) or other relevant regulatory bodies.
▪ Always confirm that both the institution and your intended course of study are fully accredited.
▪ Failure to do so may result in wasting time and financial resources on a programme that does not meet national standards.

Consider the School’s Catchment Area

▪ A school’s catchment area can give candidates from certain states an advantage during admission.
▪ For example, candidates from Lagos, Osun, Oyo, Ekiti, or Ogun may benefit from lower cut-off marks when applying to the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
▪ This does not mean candidates outside the catchment area cannot apply.
▪ It simply means that candidates within the catchment area often have a higher chance of admission due to reduced cut-off marks.

Check the Strike History of the Institution

▪ Beyond ASUU or ASUP strikes, some institutions frequently experience internal strikes.
▪ These strikes can disrupt academic activities and extend the duration of study.
▪ It is advisable to research the strike history of any institution you intend to apply to, as this can significantly affect your academic progress.

Review the Admission Requirements

▪ Admission requirements differ from one institution to another.
▪ Some schools set higher JAMB cut-off marks, while others accept lower scores.
▪ Always verify the specific admission requirements for your chosen institution.
▪ Reviewing how admission was conducted in the previous year can also help you avoid unexpected issues during your application.

Understand the Screening Process

▪ Institutions use different screening methods for admission.
▪ Some rely solely on O’level results and JAMB scores.
▪ Others conduct additional aptitude or post-UTME examinations.
▪ Candidates with strong O’level results may perform better in schools that base screening on JAMB scores and O’level grades alone.

By carefully considering these factors, you will be better prepared to make an informed decision when selecting an institution for your studies.

We wish you success in your preparation and the very best in the 2026 JAMB examination.

Ensure you Join our JAMB 2026 WhatsApp Group to meet other candidates and discuss for the ultimate goal of passing JAMB and gaining admission.