For many Nigerians, the path to higher education hits a major roadblock: the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board’s (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Each year, thousands of students are denied university admission—some fall short of the required cut-off marks, others pass the exam but never secure a spot due to systemic bottlenecks or institutional quotas. For many, the entire process is unpredictable and frustrating.
But there’s a growing alternative. A new wave of National Universities Commission (NUC)-licensed institutions are challenging the traditional admissions model. These schools are rethinking accessibility, offering direct admission to students without requiring UTME scores—so long as other academic criteria are met. Whether you’re a working professional, someone who’s retaking UTME for the third time, or simply seeking a more flexible path to a degree, these universities could be your answer.
Below are five NUC-approved universities in Nigeria that now offer admission without JAMB UTME:
1. Miva Open University
Miva Open University is Nigeria’s first operational private open university, fully licensed by the NUC. It offers direct admission without the need for UTME. Applicants must possess at least five O’Level credits, including English and Mathematics, obtained in no more than two sittings.
What sets Miva apart is its digital-first approach. Lectures are delivered online via pre-recorded videos and downloadable PDFs hosted on its learning management system. The platform is accessible from anywhere, making it ideal for students with busy schedules or those in remote areas.
Tuition is transparent and affordable, starting at ₦150,000 per semester, with no hidden fees. Miva offers career-focused programs in fields like Technology, Business, and Management, aiming to produce graduates who are not only academically qualified but job-ready.
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2. National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
A pioneer in open and distance learning, the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has long offered an alternative to the conventional university system. Admission into NOUN does not require UTME—instead, applicants must meet O’Level requirements and register through the university’s official portal.
NOUN’s flexible, self-paced system makes it an attractive option for learners who want to balance education with work or personal commitments. With over 100 study centres nationwide, students receive academic support, exam supervision, and access to resources close to home.
NOUN offers a wide variety of programs in disciplines such as Education, Law, Health Sciences, Arts, and Social Sciences. It’s also backed by government recognition, ensuring its degrees carry the same weight as those from traditional universities.
3. Iconic Open University
Iconic Open University is one of the newer players in Nigeria’s open university landscape, and it’s already making an impact by providing non-UTME admission routes. Applicants simply need to meet the standard O’Level requirements, along with other documents like birth certificates and valid IDs.
The university leverages technology to provide remote learning experiences, allowing students to access course materials and lectures online. This model is perfect for learners who prefer self-guided, flexible learning or who may not have access to traditional classroom-based education.
Iconic Open University offers programs across Business, Social Sciences, and IT, with a focus on personalised learning and real-world application of knowledge.
4. West Midlands Open University, Ibadan
Located in Ibadan but operating primarily through distance learning, West Midlands Open University is another NUC-accredited institution that offers direct entry without JAMB UTME. Applicants are required to meet standard O’Level qualifications and go through an internal admission process involving documentation and screening.
West Midlands prides itself on offering quality education online, enabling students to complete full degree programs remotely. The university also uses a modular academic structure, which gives learners flexibility in course load and duration.
It currently offers degrees in fields like Management, Computing, Education, and Public Administration, catering to those who need structure without sacrificing flexibility.
5. Al-Muhibbah Open University, Abuja
Established in 2023, Al-Muhibbah Open University is part of the new wave of NUC-licensed distance learning institutions. Based in Abuja, the university accepts qualified applicants without requiring UTME scores, relying instead on O’Level credentials and other standard documents.
Al-Muhibbah’s mission is to make education more inclusive and accessible, especially for underserved populations. Its online programs are tailored for people who are unable to attend traditional campuses due to work, geography, or personal constraints.
The university currently offers undergraduate programs in disciplines such as Entrepreneurship, Islamic Studies, Economics, and Computer Science, with a strong focus on ethical learning and academic integrity.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a school leaver, a working adult, or someone simply looking for a second chance at education, these institutions offer you a viable and recognised path to earn your degree—no JAMB UTME required.