The JAMB (Joint Admission Matriculation Board) form is designed in such a way that candidates can pick any institution they would prefer to study in, likewise their course of choice. However, being given the autonomy to do this doesn’t guarantee admission to those universities. Nigerian Universities take their time to screen candidates and follow due protocol to ensure that students are admitted to the institution based on merit. Usually, at the end of the admission year, not every candidate who has applied to a certain university gets in there.
Why didn’t I get admission into my preferred University?
There are different reasons why a candidate may not be selected to be a student of their preferred university. These reasons can include some or any of the following:
- Low academic qualifications
- Competitive selection
- Limited slots
- Error in application
- Over a competitive course of choice
- Admission Policies
- Late application
No admission into your university of choice? Don’t feel bad.
We know how bad you must currently feel that you will not be able to attend your university of choice. However, we think you should stop sulking. Not gaining admission into the university you want doesn’t mean that you didn’t put in your best or you are not good enough. Sometimes, it only just means that you can explore other options that will be beneficial to you in the future. Instead of spending too much time being moody or unhappy, the right thing to do is explore options and find alternatives.
What is the way forward?
It may be hard to make a decision but the earlier the better. If you have no idea what to do when you find yourself in this situation. Keep reading.
Identify why you were not granted admission if you can
It is very important to have an idea of why you were not granted admission. Sometimes, a few candidates are on the waiting list and if your name doesn’t appear on the first list, you may start to think that you have lost the admission. To be sure, ask around to know if there is a supplementary list. Also, if there was an error during your application, you need to be aware so that you can make rectification if possible. The essence of recognizing why you were not given admission is to help you work on any weaknesses in your applications, such as low academic performance.
Make a new plan
You had a different plan and now that it seems like it is not going to work; you need to make a new one and be extremely strategic about it. Do you still have enough time on your hands and will wait till the coming year? Would you seek alternatives? You need to answer these questions as they help you to know what step to take. If you don’t have the luxury of time, then, there is no need to wait to reapply next year. On the flip side, if you are not in a hurry to start university life, you can take your time to prepare even better for the next admission year.
Manage your expectations
There is a high probability that you have imagined yourself in the university environment, taking classes, writing exams and even moving to the next level. At this point, it is very important to manage your expectations if you want some clarity about what your next step should be. If it was due to circumstances beyond your control, accept what has come and decide to move forward. Without properly managing your expectations, you can not make a good decision about what your next step will be.
Read Also: Navigating university life as a fresher in Nigeria
Find alternatives
Most times, the best solution to not being granted admission to your preferred university is to seek alternatives. Alternatives may mean that you need to reapply to other universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education. Even at the point of admission, some universities still have their admission portals open for people looking to try their luck. However, this process will require you to purchase a “Change of Institution” form and choose any University/polytechnic you want as an alternative. Also, another option is to register for a pre-degree program at the university of your choice. This keeps you in the school environment and prepares you for the proper degree year.
Talk to people who can be of help
You will be surprised that the solution can be that you need to talk to someone. This could be a person in charge of the admission process in a university, a student of the school, a lecturer, or anyone who seems like a potential helper. These people can provide clarity, advice, or even opportunities that can be beneficial to you. Talking to these people may earn you an admission or a better chance in the future. So, when things don’t go as planned concerning your admission, don’t keep mute. Remember, closed mouths don’t get fed.
Don’t waste time
This is the most important aspect of your admission process. Some schools have resumed, and others are on the verge of resumption, so you don’t have enough time to spend being indecisive. This doesn’t mean that you should rush your decisions either; make sure you are making a good decision for yourself, but be snappy about it so that you don’t lose out on another opportunity because you didn’t decide in time.
You may not always get the exact thing you want, but never put aside the opportunity to explore other options and alternatives. You can try again or try something else but it’s never enough to give up on yourself.
How to Increase Your Chance of Securing Admission
Securing admission into a university in Nigeria can be a highly competitive process due to the large number of applicants and limited spaces available. To increase your chances of securing admission, here are some tips to consider:
Start Early
Starting early in preparing for university admission allows you to have enough time to research and understand the requirements of the universities you are interested in. It also gives you ample time to work towards meeting those requirements, whether it is improving your grades, participating in extracurricular activities, or gaining relevant experience.
Choose the Right Course
Choosing the right courses is important as it sets the foundation for your academic journey. Selecting courses that align with your interests and career goals not only makes studying more enjoyable but also increases your chances of excelling in those subjects.
Score High in Post UTME
Scoring well in examinations such as the UTME or post-UTME exams is crucial as universities often use these scores to determine admission. Putting in the effort to study diligently and perform well in these exams can make a significant difference in your application.
Research the University
Researching the universities you are applying to demonstrates your interest and preparedness. Understanding the institution’s values, programs, and admission criteria allows you to tailor your application to align with their expectations and requirements.
Seek Guidance
Seeking help and guidance from teachers, counselors, or admissions consultants can provide valuable insights and support throughout the admission process. Don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals who can offer advice and assistance when needed.
Be Persistent
Being persistent and not giving up if you are not admitted into your preferred university is important. Exploring alternative options, upgrading your qualifications, or reapplying in the future can ultimately lead to success in achieving your academic goals. perseverance can ultimately lead to success in achieving your academic goals.
Prepare for Post UTME:
Post UTME (Post Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) is a test conducted by some universities in Nigeria as part of their admission process. It is important to prepare for this exam by familiarizing yourself with the format, types of questions, and topics that may be covered. Practice answering sample questions and consider enrolling in preparation courses if necessary. Additionally, be sure to review your high school curriculum to refresh your knowledge in key subject areas.
Stay Motivated
The university admission process can be overwhelming, with multiple requirements and deadlines to keep track of. It is crucial to stay motivated throughout this process by setting clear goals, creating a study schedule, and seeking support from friends, family, or mentors. Remember why you are pursuing higher education and stay focused on your aspirations to keep yourself motivated during challenging times.
Consider Scholarships
Scholarships are valuable resources that can help offset the cost of your education. Take the time to research scholarship opportunities offered by universities, organizations, and government agencies. Look for scholarships that align with your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal background. Prepare a strong scholarship application by highlighting your accomplishments and writing compelling essays that demonstrate your potential and dedication.
Stay Informed
University admission policies and procedures can change frequently, so it is essential to stay informed about any updates that may impact your application. Follow universities’ official websites, social media accounts, and admission portals to stay up to date on deadlines, requirements, and any changes in the admission process. Keep a checklist of important dates and tasks to ensure that you meet all application requirements on time and avoid any last-minute surprises.
Stay Positive
The university admission process can be stressful, with the pressure to excel in academics, extracurricular activities, and interviews. It is important to maintain a positive mindset and believe in your abilities throughout this journey. Surround yourself with a support system that encourages and uplifts you, and remember that setbacks are a natural part of any competitive process. With hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude, you can overcome challenges and achieve your goal of gaining admission to a university that aligns with your aspirations and goals.
By following these tips and preparing diligently, you can increase your chances of securing admission into a university in Nigeria. Remember that admission decisions are based on a combination of factors, so focus on presenting yourself in the best possible light and showcasing your strengths and achievements.