If you initially registered for UTME but later realized you qualify for Direct Entry admission, you can convert your JAMB registration type from UTME to Direct Entry. This is helpful for candidates who have ND, NCE, A-Level, or other relevant qualifications.
To convert UTME to Direct Entry: Visit any JAMB accredited CBT center with your registration slip, valid ID, and proof of your Direct Entry qualification (ND, NCE, IJMB, etc.). Request the conversion, pay the correction fee (around ₦3,000), and the center will change your registration type from UTME to Direct Entry on your profile.
Who Can Convert from UTME to Direct Entry?
Not everyone can convert to Direct Entry. You must have at least one of the following qualifications:
- National Diploma (ND) from a polytechnic with Lower Credit or higher
- National Certificate in Education (NCE) with at least Merit pass
- A-Level certificates (IJMB, JUPEB, Cambridge A-Level) with minimum grade requirements
- Higher National Diploma (HND) for postgraduate Direct Entry
- Degree certificates from recognized institutions
You also need five O’Level credits including English Language and Mathematics in relevant subjects for your desired course. These credits must be obtained in one or two sittings.
When Can You Convert UTME to Direct Entry?
JAMB allows conversions during the official correction period, which usually opens a few weeks after registration closes. The correction window typically runs for several weeks but closes about two weeks before exams begin.
You cannot convert after the correction deadline or on exam day. Monitor JAMB’s website and social media for announcements about correction dates.
Step-by-Step Guide to Convert UTME to Direct Entry
Step 1: Confirm Your Direct Entry Eligibility
Before starting the conversion, verify that your qualification meets JAMB and your chosen institution’s Direct Entry requirements. Check the JAMB brochure or your institution’s admission requirements.
Step 2: Visit a JAMB Accredited CBT Center
Locate a JAMB approved CBT center near you. Only accredited centers can process registration type conversions.
Step 3: Bring All Required Documents
Carry these documents to the CBT center:
- Your JAMB registration slip (UTME slip)
- Valid identification (National ID, International Passport, or Voter’s Card)
- Original certificates of your Direct Entry qualification (ND, NCE, A-Level, etc.)
- Photocopy of the certificates
- Your O’Level results (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB)
- Correction fee (usually ₦2,500 to ₦3,000)
Step 4: Request UTME to Direct Entry Conversion
Inform the CBT center staff that you want to convert your registration from UTME to Direct Entry. They will verify your documents and access your JAMB profile.
Step 5: Upload Your Direct Entry Certificate
The center will help you upload your Direct Entry certificate details to your JAMB profile. This includes your certificate number, institution name, and year of graduation.
Step 6: Pay the Correction Fee
Pay the required correction fee and collect your receipt. Keep this as proof of payment.
Step 7: Verify Your Updated Profile
After conversion, confirm that your registration type now shows “Direct Entry” instead of “UTME”. Also verify that your Direct Entry qualification details are correctly displayed.
Step 8: Print Your Direct Entry Slip
Print your new JAMB Direct Entry registration slip. This replaces your UTME slip and should be used for all future admission processes.
Important Differences Between UTME and Direct Entry
| Aspect | UTME | Direct Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | 100 Level (Year 1) | 200 Level (Year 2) in most cases |
| Exam Required | Yes, must write UTME | No exam, uses certificate screening |
| Duration | Full program duration | Shortened by 1-2 years depending on course |
| Requirements | O’Level only | O’Level plus ND/NCE/A-Level |
| Competitiveness | Very competitive | Less competitive, fewer applicants |
What Happens After Conversion?
Once your registration is converted to Direct Entry, you will not write the UTME exam. Direct Entry candidates are admitted based on their certificate qualifications and O’Level results, not UTME scores.
Your Direct Entry registration allows you to apply for admission into 200 Level (or the equivalent level specified by your institution) instead of starting from 100 Level.
You’ll still need to participate in the admission process by checking your admission status, accepting or rejecting offers, and completing institution requirements.
Cost of Converting UTME to Direct Entry
The conversion fee is typically ₦2,500 to ₦3,000 as of recent admission cycles. This is the same fee JAMB charges for other profile corrections like subject combination or course changes.
However, individual CBT centers may add small service charges, so the total cost might reach ₦3,500 to ₦4,000. Always confirm the exact amount before proceeding.
Common Issues and Solutions
Problem: CBT center says your certificate is not recognized
Contact JAMB directly or verify from the JAMB brochure that your certificate type qualifies for Direct Entry. Some certificates from unaccredited institutions are not accepted.
Problem: Your O’Level results don’t meet requirements
You need five credits including English and Mathematics in relevant subjects. If you’re missing credits, you may need to resit WAEC or NECO before converting.
Problem: You’ve already written the UTME exam
You can still convert to Direct Entry after writing UTME, but you must do this before the correction deadline closes. Your UTME score will be discarded.
Problem: Conversion deadline has passed
If you miss the deadline, you cannot convert until the next admission cycle. You’ll either continue with UTME or register fresh for Direct Entry next year.
Can You Convert Direct Entry Back to UTME?
Yes, if you change your mind after converting to Direct Entry, you can convert back to UTME during the same correction period. You’ll follow the same process at a CBT center and pay another correction fee.
However, if you convert back to UTME after the exam timetable is released, you may be assigned a new exam date since you weren’t originally scheduled for UTME.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to pay the full JAMB registration fee again?
No, you only pay the correction fee (around ₦3,000). Your original UTME registration fee covers the Direct Entry registration.
Can I convert to Direct Entry online by myself?
No, JAMB does not allow candidates to convert registration types online. You must visit an accredited CBT center for this correction.
Will I still get admission if I don’t convert?
If you have Direct Entry qualifications but registered for UTME, you can still gain admission into 100 Level through UTME. However, converting to Direct Entry allows you to enter 200 Level and finish faster.
How long does the conversion process take?
The conversion process at the CBT center typically takes 15 to 30 minutes if all your documents are complete and correct.
Can I convert after being offered UTME admission?
No, once you’ve been offered admission through UTME, you cannot convert to Direct Entry. Conversions must be done before the admission process begins.
Related Topics You Should Read
After converting to Direct Entry, you should know how to upload your O’Level results on JAMB portal, how to check JAMB Direct Entry admission status, and the documents needed for Direct Entry screening at your chosen institution. Understanding JAMB’s Change of Course and Institution process is also helpful if you need to adjust your preferences.
Haruna Ayuba is an Educationist who loves to write and share information with students and Guardians, helping them make the right decisions faster.
He is also an editor, AI lover and a prompt engineer.
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