Can I Use Only NECO to Enter University in Nigeria?

Can I use only NECO to enter university in Nigeria? Yes, you can use only NECO to enter a university in Nigeria.

If you hold a NECO result and plan to do your higher education in Nigeria, you could be asking whether you can use it to enter university in Nigeria and the answer is a resounding yes.

In fact, several higher institutions in Nigeria accept only NECO for admission into any course or program of your choice as long as you meet other admission requirements as well.

In this article, I will show you the steps to enter a university in Nigeria with NECO results as well as some top Nigerian universities that accept NECO results for admission.

Ready? Let’s go!

Also Read: 10 Universities Abroad That Accept NECO Result

Table of Contents

Can I Use Only NECO to Enter University in Nigeria?

Yes, you can use only NECO to enter a university in Nigeria.

NECO (National Examinations Council) is recognized as one of the examination bodies in Nigeria for secondary school students.

However, it’s important to know that relying solely on NECO results may not guarantee admission into a university in Nigeria.

In Nigeria, universities commonly require two main examinations for admission: the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) conducted by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

These exams play a significant role in the admission process.

While NECO results are sometimes accepted by certain universities, they are typically seen as a substitute for WAEC results.

If a student didn’t sit for the WAEC examination, they can present their NECO results instead.

However, it’s essential to understand that each university and program may have specific admission requirements and preferences, so it’s crucial to check with the universities you’re interested in for their specific guidelines.

To maximize your chances of university admission, it’s generally recommended to take the WAEC and JAMB UTME examinations.

These exams are widely accepted and often required by universities in Nigeria.

Additionally, universities may consider other factors such as the candidate’s score in the JAMB UTME, post-UTME (university-specific entrance examination), and sometimes a combination of WAEC and NECO results.

Therefore, while NECO results can be utilized for university admission in Nigeria, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the admission requirements of the universities and courses you’re interested in.

By doing so, you can ensure that you meet the necessary criteria and have the best chance of gaining admission to your desired university.

Recommended: Can I Use NECO Result to Study Abroad?

Steps to Enter University in Nigeria with NECO Result

If you plan to enter university in Nigeria with NECO results, there are certain essential steps you must take.

Let’s explore the steps to enter a university in Nigeria with NECO results.

1. Research

First things first, you’ll need to do some research.

Look into the universities in Nigeria that offer the program you’re interested in.

Check their admission requirements, including the accepted examination bodies and the specific subjects and grades they require.

This will help you understand the criteria you need to meet.

2. Confirm Acceptance of NECO Results

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s important to check if the universities you’re interested in accept NECO results for admission.

While some universities may require WAEC results, they often consider NECO as a substitute if you don’t have WAEC results.

It’s always a good idea to visit the university websites or contact their admissions office to verify their specific requirements.

Also See: 10 Tips to Pass NECO Exam in One Sitting

3. Register for JAMB UTME

To proceed with your university admission, you’ll need to register for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

It’s a nationwide examination that is widely accepted by Nigerian universities.

Get hold of the JAMB registration form, follow the specified procedures, and pay the required fees to complete your registration.

4. Prepare for the UTME Exam

Once you’re registered for the UTME exam, it’s time to start preparing.

Take the time to study the JAMB UTME syllabus and past questions to familiarize yourself with the exam format and content.

Create a study schedule, review the relevant subjects, and practice answering sample questions.

This will help you feel more confident and increase your chances of success.

5. Take the UTME Exam

On the day of the UTME exam, make sure you’re well-prepared.

Arrive at the designated exam center on time and with all the necessary documents, such as your registration slip and identification card.

Follow the instructions given by the exam officials and give your best shot!

Also Read: How Does NECO Set Their Questions?

6. Check UTME Results

After the exam, it’s time to wait for the release of the UTME results.

This is an exciting but nerve-wracking time.

Keep an eye on the JAMB official website or use the designated result-checking platform to access your scores.

Take a deep breath before checking and celebrate your achievements!

7. Apply to Universities

Once you have your UTME results and NECO results, it’s time to start applying to the universities you’re interested in.

Visit the respective university websites or the JAMB portal for the admission process.

Fill out the application forms, provide the required documents, and pay the application fees within the specified deadlines.

Make sure to double-check all the details before submitting your applications.

8. Post-UTME Examination (If Required)

Some universities may require candidates to take a post-UTME examination or undergo a screening process.

This is an additional step to assess your suitability for admission.

Check the admission guidelines of each university you’ve applied to in order to determine if this step is necessary.

If so, prepare accordingly and give it your best effort.

9. Admission Consideration

At this stage, universities will consider your JAMB UTME scores, NECO results, and possibly other factors like post-UTME scores or O’level grades during the admission process.

Each university will review your application and determine if you meet their admission criteria.

They will then offer you a provisional admission if you’re successful.

10. Acceptance and Registration

If you receive an admission offer, congratulations!

Take the time to carefully review the terms and conditions of the offer.

Accept the offer within the specified timeframe and follow the instructions provided for registration.

You’ll need to pay the acceptance fee and complete the registration process to secure your place in the university. It’s an exciting milestone!

Remember, the steps may vary slightly depending on the specific requirements of each university.

It’s always a good idea to stay updated with the admission guidelines of the universities you’re interested in and follow their instructions accordingly.

Also See: 6 Easiest Subjects to Pass in JAMB and WAEC (Revealed)

Top Nigerian Universities that Accept NECO Result for Admission in Nigeria

There are several universities in Nigeria that accept NECO results for admission.

However, here are some of the top Nigerian universities that accept NECO results for admission:

1. University of Lagos (UNILAG)

UNILAG is widely recognized as one of the top universities in Nigeria.

They accept NECO results for admission into their undergraduate programs.

However, it’s important to note that while NECO results are considered, candidates with WAEC results may have an advantage.

So, if you have both NECO and WAEC results, it’s advisable to submit your WAEC results as well.

2. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

UNN is known for its academic excellence and is a prestigious institution in Nigeria.

They do accept NECO results for admission, especially for candidates who did not sit for the WAEC examination.

However, it’s essential to check the specific departmental requirements, as they may vary.

It’s always a good idea to contact the university or visit their website for accurate and detailed information.

3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

OAU is renowned for its academic reputation and is consistently ranked among the top universities in Nigeria.

They do consider NECO results for admission, but candidates with WAEC results may be given priority.

It’s important to thoroughly review their admission guidelines to understand the specific requirements and ensure that you meet them.

Also Read: 10 Hardest Subjects to Pass in JAMB and WAEC (Revealed)

4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

ABU, located in Zaria, is a prestigious institution and one of the largest universities in Nigeria.

They do accept NECO results for admission, although candidates with WAEC results may have an advantage.

It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with ABU’s admission criteria and check if you meet the necessary requirements.

5. University of Ibadan (UI)

UI holds the distinction of being the oldest university in Nigeria and is highly respected for its academic achievements.

They accept NECO results for admission, particularly for candidates who did not sit for the WAEC examination.

However, meeting the cutoff marks for the JAMB exam is also an important factor for admission into UI.

6. Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)

FUTMINNA is a leading technological university in Nigeria.

They accept NECO results for admission into their undergraduate programs.

However, it’s crucial to meet their specific subject and grade requirements as stated in their admission guidelines.

Checking their website or contacting the admissions office directly can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Remember, while these universities accept NECO results, it’s essential to thoroughly review their admission policies and requirements.

Each university may have specific criteria and preferences, so it’s advisable to visit their websites or contact their admissions offices to ensure that you have the most accurate and detailed information before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Enter University without WAEC?

Yes, you can enter university without WAEC results, but it depends on the individual university’s admission policies.

Some universities accept alternative qualifications like NECO instead.

However, it’s crucial to check with the specific universities you’re interested in to understand their requirements.

Each institution has its own guidelines, so contacting them directly will give you a clear understanding of whether they accept alternative qualifications in place of WAEC for admission.

Why Is WAEC Better Than NECO?

The question of whether WAEC is better than NECO is subjective and depends on individual perspectives.

WAEC is often considered more widely recognized and has a longer history, while NECO offers flexibility in exam scheduling.

WAEC’s reputation and acceptance by institutions can be advantageous, but NECO also has its merits.

Ultimately, the choice depends on specific circumstances and university requirements.

It’s important to consider personal goals and preferences when deciding between the two examination bodies.

Also See: Is JAMB Harder Than WAEC? (Answer Revealed)

What Are the Requirements to Enter University In Nigeria?

Are you wondering about the requirements to enter university in Nigeria?

Well, first you’ll need to take the JAMB UTME and achieve a satisfactory score, meeting the cutoff marks set by the university.

Additionally, a qualifying O’level result from examination bodies like WAEC or NECO is usually required.

Some universities may also conduct a post-UTME exam, and specific subject and grade requirements might apply.

It’s important to thoroughly review the admission guidelines of the universities you’re interested in to ensure you meet their specific requirements.

What Is the Pass Mark in NECO?

In NECO, the pass mark is generally set at 40%.

This means that to pass a subject in NECO, you need to achieve a minimum score of 40%.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that the grading system and pass mark policies might differ based on the subject and level of the exam.

It’s always advisable to refer to the official NECO guidelines or consult with your school or examination center for accurate and detailed information about pass marks in NECO.

Is NECO Difficult?

The difficulty level of NECO exams is subjective and can vary from person to person.

Some students may find NECO challenging, while others may perceive it as manageable.

Success in NECO requires proper preparation, studying the syllabus, and practicing past questions.

Developing effective study habits and exam strategies can help navigate the exam.

With dedication and consistent effort, many students have been able to pass NECO.

Remember, personal experiences and perceptions of difficulty may differ, so it’s important to approach the exams with a positive mindset and thorough preparation.