Difference Between JAMB And Post UTME

Difference Between JAMB And Post UTME: The Nigerian education system, like many others worldwide, has various stages and processes to ensure that students are adequately prepared for higher education.

Two critical examinations in this journey towards obtaining a university degree in Nigeria are the JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) and the Post UTME (Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination).

While both exams play significant roles in the admission process, there are distinct differences between them. For many students and parents, the distinctions between JAMB and Post UTME can be a tad confusing.

But no worries! In this article, we’ll break down the differences in simple terms, so by the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what each exam entails and their respective roles in the university admission process. Let’s start with what JAMB is!

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What is JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) Examination

JAMB, which stands for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, is an official Nigerian examination body responsible for the admission of students into tertiary institutions within the country. Established in 1978, JAMB’s primary role is to ensure a standardized system for assessing candidates seeking admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and other tertiary institutions.

Below are a few key points about JAMB:

Purpose: The JAMB examination, often referred to as UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination), is a standardized test organized by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board. Its primary purpose is to screen students seeking admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions, including universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
Coverage: JAMB tests candidates on four subjects, typically English Language (which is compulsory) and three other subjects relevant to the student’s desired course of study.
Scoring: The total score for JAMB is 400, with each of the four subjects carrying a maximum of 100 marks.
Frequency & Timing: JAMB is conducted once a year, usually around March or April. The results are then used for admission in the subsequent academic session.

What is Post UTME (Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination)

Post UTME, which stands for Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, is an additional screening test conducted by individual tertiary institutions in Nigeria after the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) organized by JAMB. The introduction of Post UTME came as a response to the need for tertiary institutions to have a more in-depth assessment of candidates seeking admission, beyond their UTME scores.

Below are a few key points about Post UTME:

Purpose: Post UTME is an examination conducted by individual universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education after the JAMB exams. Its main aim is to further screen candidates based on the institution’s specific criteria and standards.
Coverage: The content of the Post UTME varies from one institution to another. Some may test students on subjects they wrote in JAMB, while others might focus on general knowledge or current affairs.
Scoring: Scoring methods differ across institutions. However, when combined with JAMB scores, it determines if a student meets the cut-off mark for their chosen course.
Frequency & Timing: Post UTME is also conducted once a year, typically a few months after the JAMB results are released. It’s a crucial step before final admission decisions are made.

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Key Differences between JAMB and Post UTME

JAMB	Post UTME
It is a national exam organized by a single body for all tertiary institutions	It is institution-specific i.e. each institutions perform its Post UTME.
Focuses on subject-specific questions based on a student’s desired course	Post-UTME might include general knowledge or institution-based questions.
JAMB scores are combined	Post UTME scores to determine admission, but the weightage of each score might vary from one institution to another.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

Is post JAMB the same thing as post UTME?

Is UTME the same thing as JAMB? This is one question often asked. For clarity, JAMB is an acronym for “Joint Admission Matriculation Board” that conducts UTME, an acronym for “Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.” Hence, JAMB is the body, while UTME is the examination. So, don’t get it twisted, it is Post UTME and not Post JAMB.

What is post UTME used for?

Post UTME is an exam written by prospective students who made it up to the required grades in JAMB to gain admission into tertiary institutions. It is an abbreviation for Post Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination. It is being organized by universities as a screening exercise to admit students into the schools.

Is Post UTME harder than JAMB?

This question is difficult to give a straight answer to. Both exams are hard and it depends on how well you prepared for them. Some people do claim that Post UTME is harder than JAMB while some also claim that JAMB is harder.

What is JAMB exam called?

The board (JAMB) conducts an entrance examination called UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) for students who want to get admitted into Nigerian universities.

Is post UTME written before or after admission?

After the initial UTME, the next stage of the admission process is the Post-UTME screening test conducted by individual institutions according to their respective stipulations, mode of test/interview, examination, and the required scores for the different academic programmes and courses.

Can someone score 400 in JAMB?

The highest possible score on the JAMB exam is 400. A score of 400 is considered a perfect score and it is extremely rare for a candidate to achieve this score. Getting 400 is worth noting the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is a Nigerian entrance examination board for tertiary-level institutions.

Conclusion on JAMB Vs. Post UTME

Navigating the path to higher education in Nigeria involves understanding the role and differences between JAMB and Post UTME.

While JAMB provides a general screening for all students seeking tertiary education, Post UTME offers institutions a chance to further assess candidates based on their unique standards.

See Also: How to Gain Admission Without JAMB

Both exams are crucial, and success in them paves the way for a student’s admission into their desired course and institution.

As you prepare, remember that each test is a stepping stone towards your academic goals. Stay focused, practice regularly, and believe in yourself. Your dreams of higher education are well within reach!

If you have any questions regarding this post, simply leave us a comment in the comment box below and we will get back to you as soon as possible!