How to Apply for Pre-Degree or Remedial Programmes in Nigeria

If you missed direct admission or want an easier route into competitive courses, a Pre-Degree (foundation) or Remedial programme is a practical option. In Nigeria these programmes such as JUPEB, IJMB, university foundation (pre-degree) courses and school-based remedial classes prepare you for Direct Entry (DE) or improve your O-Level/UTME profile so you can gain admission the next session.

This guide explains the difference between the main options, exactly how to apply step-by-step, typical costs and timelines, what documents you’ll need, where to apply (how to find centres), how admission works after you finish, and common pitfalls to avoid. It’s written for students across Nigeria and includes actionable checklists you can copy and use right away. (Updated November 2025.)

What is a Pre-Degree / Remedial programme?

• Pre-Degree / Foundation programmes are structured academic courses run by universities or approved bodies that prepare candidates for university entry. They often end with an examination (e.g., JUPEB or IJMB exams) whose result qualifies successful students for Direct Entry admission into 200-level of a university for certain courses.
• Remedial programmes typically focus on improving your O-Level subjects or UTME readiness (subject tutoring, pass improvement, catch-up classes). They are designed for candidates who didn’t meet admission requirements and must fix deficiencies (e.g., missing prerequisites, failed O-Level subjects).
• Common examples in Nigeria:
  • JUPEB (Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board) widely accepted for DE entry.
  • IJMB (Inter-University Joint Matriculation Board) another DE pathway.
  • University Foundation / Pre-Degree courses run by individual universities (e.g., Pre-Degree at UI, UNILAG Foundation, etc.).
  • School-based remedial / catch-up classes (not always DE but used to improve O-Level results or UTME scores).

Main programme types, quick comparison (table)

Programme	Runs by	Typical duration	Outcome / Admission route	Best for
JUPEB	JUPEB centres / participating universities	9–12 months	JUPEB certificate → apply for Direct Entry (200L) at many Nigerian universities	Candidates who want DE entry without losing a year
IJMB	IJMB centres / some universities	9–12 months	IJMB certificate → Direct Entry in accepting universities	Similar to JUPEB; works for some universities that prefer IJMB
University Foundation / Pre-Degree	Individual universities (UI, UNILAG, UNN, etc.)	6–12 months	Foundation certificate; some universities allow conversion to 100L or give UTME advantage	Those who want to study within the same university
Remedial / Catch-up	Private schools, tutorial centres, some universities	3–9 months	Improved O-Level/UTME readiness; not always direct DE	Candidates needing to fix O-Level or strengthen UTME subjects

Who should choose which programme?

• You want to enter 200L directly (DE) → Choose JUPEB or IJMB (if your target university accepts it).
• You want a strong chance at admission in the same university → Consider that university’s Pre-Degree/Foundation (some give internal preference).
• You failed/need to improve O-Level subjects for JAMB → Take a remedial course and re-sit SSCE (WAEC/NECO), then sit UTME.
• You already have A-levels / foreign qualifications → Check university DE equivalence; you may not need JUPEB/IJMB.

Step-by-step: How to apply (general process)

Below is a general, copy-and-paste-ready checklist. Specific centres or universities may vary slightly.

Step A. Decide your target and programme

1. Choose the course and university you want (some universities accept JUPEB, some prefer their own foundation schemes).
2. Choose the programme (JUPEB, IJMB, or a university foundation). Confirm the target university accepts the certificate for Direct Entry into your course.

Step B. Find accredited centres / the official portal

1. For JUPEB: search for accredited JUPEB centres (many private colleges and universities host JUPEB classes). Use the JUPEB directory or contact the JUPEB office (search “JUPEB centres near me”).
2. For IJMB: look for IJMB-accredited centres.
3. For University foundation: go to the university’s official website (e.g., “University of Lagos foundation programme application”). Avoid third-party sites that charge extra.
4. For remedial: pick a reputable tutorial centre or the university’s remedial unit.

Step C. Check entry requirements and opening dates

• Generally: 5 O-Level credits including relevant subjects; UTME subject matches; sometimes minimum JAMB score is required. Foundation schemes may accept fewer O-Level passes but will require remedial work.
• Note application opening / closing and hostel availability.

Step D. Complete application & pay fees

1. Create an account on the centre/university portal (or pick and complete a paper form if they use one).
2. Upload required documents (see section 5).
3. Pay application/acceptance fees via bank, mobile transfer or the portal (obtain official receipt). Always confirm payment details on the official site.

Step E. Attend orientation and start classes

• After acceptance, attend orientation; classes normally run daily or on weekdays depending on the centre. Keep attendance; exams usually require a minimum attendance.

Step F. Sit final exams and get the certificate

• At the end of the programme you’ll sit the recognised examination (JUPEB/IJMB or internal exam). Results determine Direct Entry eligibility.

Step G. Convert results to university admission

1. Use your JUPEB/IJMB certificate to apply for Direct Entry on the JAMB portal (if needed) or apply directly through the university’s DE portal.
2. Complete any additional screening (some universities require post-JUPEB interview/screening).

Documents you must have ready (upload checklist)

• Clear passport photograph (digital format and hard copy).
• Birth certificate or SWORN/Age declaration (for some universities).
• O-Level result(s) (WAEC/NECO) scanned copy or ID number. If pending, note the centre’s policy.
• JAMB registration slip (if already registered) some foundation programmes accept unregistered students; verify.
• School leaving certificate / Statement of result (if requested).
• Proof of payment for application fees (receipt).
• Valid ID (national ID, voter’s card, passport).
• Letter of reference or guarantor details (rarely required for foundation but sometimes for hostels).

Fees, duration and timelines (typical ranges)

Important: Fees vary widely by centre and university. The figures below are typical ranges across Nigeria as of late 2025 always confirm with the centre.

• JUPEB / IJMB
  • Duration: 9–12 months (one academic session).
  • Tuition / total fees: ₦80,000 – ₦250,000 (some private centres higher).
  • Application fee: ₦5,000 – ₦20,000.
• University Foundation / Pre-Degree
  • Duration: 6–12 months.
  • Tuition / total fees: ₦50,000 – ₦200,000 depending on university & facilities.
• Remedial / catch-up
  • Duration: 3–9 months (shorter intensive courses available).
  • Fees: ₦20,000 – ₦150,000 depending on subject load and tutor quality.

Timeline example (common): July–September: Applications open → October: classes begin → May/June: final exams → July–August: results published → Apply for DE or UTME the next admission cycle.

How results convert to university admission

• Direct Entry (DE): After passing JUPEB/IJMB, you can apply to universities for Direct Entry into 200-level for most courses. Universities set DE cut-offs per department (it’s not automatic). Good JUPEB scores increase admission chances.
• University Foundation: Some universities allow top foundation students to be admitted into 100L or 200L depending on rules. Others require UTME. Always check the admitting university’s policy.
• Remedial students typically must re-sit O-Level subjects and then apply via UTME in the usual way, unless the remedial course is connected to a foundation programme that offers DE.

Choosing a good centre or university to study what to check

1. Accreditation: Confirm the centre is officially accredited (JUPEB/IJMB or the university’s foundation unit).
2. Past results: Ask for past session results and number of students admitted into universities.
3. Teachers: Check tutor qualification (degree holders, experienced tutors).
4. Facilities: Classrooms, library access, lab (for science courses), hostel options.
5. Transparency: Clear fee structure and official receipts. Avoid centres that ask for huge “special” payments for results.
6. Student reviews: Ask seniors, check social media groups, and university forums for honest feedback.

Common scams & how to avoid them

• “Guaranteed admission” claims: No legitimate centre can guarantee admission. Admission depends on exams and university cut-offs. Red flag if a centre promises admission for extra cash.
• Fake portals / unofficial payment accounts: Always pay through the official university or centre portal or bank account listed on the official site. Verify the payee name and save receipts.
• False certificates: Ensure the certificate will be issued by an accredited body (JUPEB/IJMB or the university), not a private non-recognised paper.
• Too-good-to-be-true exam shortcuts: Any offer to alter or expedite results is illegal report such attempts.

Expert tips to boost your admission chances

• Pick subjects wisely: For JUPEB/IJMB, choose the A-level subjects that match your intended university course (e.g., Medicine requires Biology, Chemistry, Physics/Maths).
• Attend regularly: Many universities require minimum attendance to sit final exams.
• Study the syllabus: JUPEB and IJMB have published syllabuses use them to focus revision.
• Ask for mock exams: Simulate exam conditions; prior session papers help.
• Apply early: Popular centres fill fast apply as soon as registration opens.
• Keep paperwork tidy: Scanned ID, WAEC/NECO photo page, and receipts should be organized and backed up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is JUPEB better than the university’s own foundation programme?
A: Neither is universally “better.” JUPEB is widely accepted across many Nigerian universities for direct entry, while a university’s foundation may favor internal admission. Choose based on which universities you target.

Q2: Can I do JUPEB and still sit UTME?
A: Yes. You can register for UTME and use JUPEB for DE. Some students do both to maximize options.

Q3: If I pass JUPEB, do I still need JAMB?
A: Many universities require a JAMB registration even for DE candidates (you’ll use the DE option on the JAMB portal). Check the admitting university’s requirements.

Q4: How long after JUPEB will I get admission?
A: After your JUPEB results are released (usually summer), you apply for Direct Entry. Admission timelines vary some universities admit immediately, others wait until screening ends.

Q5: Can remedial programmes change my WAEC/NECO results?
A: No. Remedial classes help you prepare before you re-sit WAEC/NECO; the only way to change an O-Level result is to re-sit the exam.

Q6: Are online or distance JUPEB/foundation options available?
A: Some centres offer blended learning, but universities and exam bodies often require in-person attendance for certain practical components and invigilated exams. Verify accreditation.

Conclusion

A Pre-Degree (JUPEB/IJMB/Foundation) or Remedial programme can be the fastest, most practical route to improve your admission chances into Nigerian universities. The right choice depends on your target university, course, and current academic profile. Follow the steps in this guide: select the correct programme, apply through accredited centres, keep your documents ready, and prepare seriously for final exams. By applying early, choosing reputable centres, and following official payment channels, you’ll avoid scams and boost your chance of getting the university place you want. (Updated November 2025.)

Quick copy-ready application checklist

1. Decide target university & course.
2. Confirm which programmes they accept (JUPEB/IJMB/Foundation/Remedial).
3. Find accredited centres check official centre list or university website.
4. Gather documents: passport, O-Level, birth cert, photos, ID.
5. Apply on centre/university portal and pay application fee (save receipt).
6. Attend orientation, follow class schedule, keep attendance records.
7. Sit final exams; request official result slip.
8. Use result to apply for Direct Entry on JAMB/university portal.
9. Follow up on screening and acceptance notices.