When applying to study in any universities in Nigeria, understanding the admission requirements of your chosen university is important as it will help you follow the necessary steps needed to achieving your dream of gaining admission. One common question amongst prospective students is whether a university accepts second choice candidates or not. For Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria, which is one of the Nigeria’s prestigious and competitive universities in Nigeria.
In this article, we will provide you the necessary answers to the question “Does ABU accept second choice candidates for admission?
Does ABU Accept Second Choice for Admission?
No, Ahmadu Bello University does not accept second choice candidates for undergraduate admission. If you are applying to ABU, you must select it as your first choice during the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) registration process. This means that applicants who choose ABU as their second choice will not be considered for admission, even if they meet the minimum requirements.
Why Does ABU Not Accept Second Choice?
There are several reasons why ABU does not accept second-choice candidates:
- High Competition: ABU is one of the most sought-after universities in Nigeria. The institution receives tens of thousands of applications annually for a limited number of admission slots. As a result, the university focuses on applicants who select it as their first choice.
- Commitment to First-Choice Candidates: Like many top universities, ABU prefers to admit students who are fully committed to attending the university. Selecting ABU as your first choice shows that you prioritize gaining admission into the institution, which is considered an important factor in the selection process.
- Limited Admission Slots: The number of students admitted into Nigerian universities is regulated by the National Universities Commission (NUC), which allocates specific quotas based on facilities and staff strength. Given ABU’s popularity, the university fills its available slots with first-choice candidates, leaving no room for second-choice applicants.
What Should You Do If ABU Is Your Second Choice?
If you mistakenly chose ABU as your second choice or have changed your mind after the JAMB registration process, there are steps you can take to improve your chances of admission:
- Change Your Institution Choice: JAMB allows candidates to use the Change of Institution portal to update their preferred university after the initial registration. If ABU is your desired institution, you can change it to your first choice before the deadline.
- Consider Other Universities: If you’re unable to change your institution choice to ABU, you can explore other universities that accept second-choice candidates. Some state universities and private institutions may offer more flexible admission policies.
- Apply Next Year: If ABU is your dream university and you cannot gain admission this year, consider applying next year with ABU as your first choice. Preparing adequately for JAMB and ABU’s Post-UTME will increase your chances of securing admission.
Other Important Admission Requirements at ABU
Aside choosing ABU as your first choice, you need to meet other basic admission requirements to be considered for undergraduate programs:
- JAMB Cut-Off Mark: The minimum JAMB score required for admission into ABU varies by course. Generally, the cut-off mark for ABU is around 180, but competitive courses like Medicine, Law, and Engineering may require much higher scores (up to 200-250).
- O’Level Results: To be eligible for admission, candidates must have at least five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, in either WAEC, NECO, or an equivalent examination.
- Post-UTME Screening: After passing the JAMB exam, candidates must also participate in ABU’s Post-UTME screening. This involves an additional exam that determines the candidate’s eligibility for admission into their chosen course.
- Direct Entry (DE): For Direct Entry candidates, ABU accepts qualifications such as A’Levels, ND, HND, or equivalents. These candidates must also meet the O’Level requirements and apply through the JAMB Direct Entry form.
Conclusion
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) does not accept second choice candidates for admission. If you are serious about studying in ABU, you must choose the university as your first choice during JAMB registration. In addition to this, make sure to meet other admission requirements, including the JAMB cut-off mark, O’Level results and Post-UTME score. For candidates who choose ABU as their second choice, it is possible to change your choice using the JAMB Change of Institution option. The key to securing admission into ABU is to prepare thoroughly and ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements.
If you’re intending to study at ABU, choosing it as your first choice and performing well in the JAMB and Post-UTME screening processes will significantly improve your chances of admission into this prestigious university.
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