Securing admission into Nigerian polytechnics usually requires passing the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exam. However, not everyone takes UTME, and some students score below the cut-off mark.
For the 2025/2026 academic session, several polytechnics offer alternative admission pathways for prospective students. These routes include Part-Time National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), Pre-ND, and other special programmes that do not require JAMB.
This guide explains the available options, lists notable polytechnics that admit without JAMB, and highlights key things you must know before applying.
Contents
- Alternative Admission Pathways Without JAMB
- 1. Part-Time National Diploma (ND)
- 2. Higher National Diploma (HND)
- 3. Pre-ND and Remedial Programmes
- 4. Daily Part-Time & Weekend Programmes
- List of Polytechnics Offering Admission Without JAMB (2025/2026)
- Key Considerations for Students
- FAQs About Admission Without JAMB
Alternative Admission Pathways Without JAMB
Here are the most common ways to gain admission into a Nigerian polytechnic without sitting for UTME:
1. Part-Time National Diploma (ND)
- Designed for working-class individuals or students who prefer flexible schedules.
- Admission does not require a JAMB score.
- Duration: usually 3–4 years, depending on mode of study.
2. Higher National Diploma (HND)
- For applicants who already hold a National Diploma (ND) from a recognized polytechnic.
- JAMB result is not needed for HND admission.
- Duration: 2 years.
3. Pre-ND and Remedial Programmes
- Preparatory courses designed to help students meet requirements for ND admission.
- Successful completion can lead to direct entry into an ND programme without JAMB.
4. Daily Part-Time & Weekend Programmes
- Flexible study schedules for professionals or those unable to commit to full-time study.
- Available in several polytechnics across Nigeria.
List of Polytechnics Offering Admission Without JAMB (2025/2026)
| Polytechnic | State | Admission Route (Without JAMB) | Example Courses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Polytechnic, Ede | Osun | Part-Time ND | Accountancy, Business Admin, Computer Science, Electrical Eng. |
| Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa | Nasarawa | HND, ND Part-Time, Pre-ND, IJMB, PGD | Science, Engineering, Business Studies |
| Auchi Polytechnic | Edo | Part-Time, HND | Business Admin, Fine Arts, Tech courses |
| Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku | Delta | HND | Science and Engineering |
| Edo State Polytechnic, Usen | Edo | ND Part-Time, HND | Business and Technical courses |
| The Polytechnic, Ibadan | Oyo | Daily Part-Time, Pre-ND | Social Sciences, Engineering |
| Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY) | Ogun | Evening / Weekend ND & HND | Business Admin, Mass Comm |
| Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) | Lagos | ND Part-Time | Computer Science, Accountancy, Management |
⚠ Note: Admission policies may change yearly. Always confirm directly with the school’s official website or admission office.
Key Considerations for Students
Before applying for admission without JAMB, keep these in mind:
- Accreditation
- Ensure the polytechnic and programme are approved by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
- This ensures your certificate is valid and recognised.
- Admission Requirements
- 5 O’Level credits (including English & Mathematics) are still compulsory.
- Some programmes may require work experience or internal screening tests.
- Application Deadlines
- Deadlines vary per school. Always check the official website for updated dates.
- NYSC Eligibility
- Students from some part-time programmes may not be eligible for NYSC unless they later do a top-up. Verify before applying.
FAQs About Admission Without JAMB
Q1: Are these admissions legitimate?
Yes. As long as the programme is accredited by NBTE, your certificate is recognised.
Q2: Can I go for NYSC after studying without JAMB?
For full-time ND and HND, yes. For some part-time programmes, NYSC eligibility may vary.
Q3: Do I need to write JAMB later?
Not always. If you continue within part-time or HND tracks, JAMB is not required.
Q4: Which is cheaper: part-time or full-time?
Full-time is usually cheaper. Part-time may cost more because of extra flexibility.
Getting into a polytechnic without JAMB is possible through Part-Time ND, HND, Pre-ND, and Remedial programmes. Schools like Federal Polytechnic Ede, Auchi Poly, MAPOLY, YABATECH, and others provide these routes.
If you missed JAMB or scored low, you still have a chance to pursue your academic goals. Always check official school websites for updates and ensure the programme is NBTE-accredited.
