Choosing an institution is a major decision for any student, but it can be especially difficult for those preparing to take the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination. There are many factors to consider, including the institution’s location, cost, reputation, and academic offerings.
However, it’s also important to remember that every student’s situation is different, so there is no one-size-fits-all answer. With that in mind, here are some of the key factors that every JAMBITES should keep in mind when selecting a preferred university.
Institution’s Required Cut Off Mark
Knowing the institutions cut off mark, lets you realistically assess your chances of admission. Aiming for a university far above your academic reach can lead to disappointment and wasted effort. Comparing your grades to the cut-off mark gives you a clearer picture of whether you need to improve your scores or consider alternative options.If your grades fall short of the cut-off, knowing it beforehand allows you to strategize effectively. You can focus on improving your performance in relevant subjects, retake exams, or consider alternative universities with more attainable requirements. This proactive approach maximizes your chances of securing admission to your desired program.
University’s Accreditation
Attending a university that is not accredited by the Nigerian Universities Commission can be very detrimental along the line. Mostly when you graduate and you’re searching for a job. One of the first things you must consider when choosing a university in Nigeria is NUC accreditation. Do your own research and make a choice from schools that have been accredited by the NUC.
The University’s Strike History
Don’t be in a rush to pick just any school. Some Universities are well known for constant striking. They are SUPER STRIKERS. Go for universities that hardly go on strike so as not to extend your stay in school unnecessarily. Imagine a medicine student spending 10 years in school due to strike or an engineering student spending 7 years in school.
The major body responsible for strike in Nigerian Federal and State Universities is the Academic Staff union of Universities. Other strikes may arise by other bodies too.
Facilities and Equipment
If you go to a school without adequate learning facilities, you will end up getting tired of the whole school system fast. Learning is easier when the proper facilities are available, like libraries, laboratories, workshops, etc. Do your research and consider this also.
Location and Environment
Your school environment affects your learning and comfort. Is your school area accessible? Is it located in a rural area? Or terrorized by a lot of thieves and cultists? All these are things you must consider when choosing a university in Nigeria. Choose a school in which accommodation and basic students’ needs wouldn’t be a problem to get.
Your Choice Course
This is one of the most important things you must consider as a Jambite when choosing a University in Nigeria. Why is this so? There are some universities that are very good in some courses because they have the necessary facilities and expertise. So you must consider your course just before picking a university. You need to do some research. For example, Ambrose Ali University in Ekpoma, Edo state, is known for their prowess in the Faculty of Law.
Fees and Finances
No go do pass yourself. One thing you must have in mind when choosing a university in Nigeria is your financial capabilities. This covers school fees, cost of living, registrations, etc. Some universities like the private universities have high financial demands, while the federal and state universities are known to be less financially demanding. So you this is one of the things you must consider when choosing a university in Nigeria. Cut your cloth according to your size.
Catchment Area
What is catchment area? Catchment areas are the areas which the Universities are going to give more consideration when giving admission. Example, UNILAG catchment areas are Lagos, Ekiti, Osun, Oyo, Ogun, etc. If you are not within this catchment area, you can still get admission easily, but people in these areas usually have a lesser cut off mark than the usual one.