JAMB UTME to Direct Entry Conversion 2025/2026: Step-by-Step Guide – Every year, many students sit for JAMB UTME hoping to gain admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education. Some register as UTME candidates, while others go in as Direct Entry (DE) candidates.
But here’s the twist: after registering, some students realise they should have chosen Direct Entry instead of UTME. Maybe they already have a diploma, IJMB, JUPEB, or NCE, and want to skip 100 level. Or maybe they simply got better advice after registering.
If you’re in this situation, don’t panic. JAMB has a process called UTME to Direct Entry conversion that allows you to switch your admission mode.
This article will guide you through:
- What UTME to DE conversion means
- Who is eligible
- Documents you’ll need
- The conversion process (step by step)
- What happens after conversion
- What to do next
- FAQs students always ask
Let’s break it down.
What Does UTME to Direct Entry DE Conversion Mean?
When registering for JAMB, you’re asked to choose either UTME or Direct Entry.
UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination): You’re applying for 100 level (first year).
Direct Entry (DE): You’re applying for 200 level (second year) because you already have qualifications like A’Levels, IJMB, JUPEB, NCE, OND, or HND.
So, UTME to DE conversion simply means switching from UTME (first-year admission) to DE (second-year admission). Once you switch, you’re no longer a UTME candidate you become a Direct Entry applicant.
Who is Eligible for the JAMB UTME to Direct Entry (DE) conversion?
Not everyone can convert from UTME to DE. To qualify, you must:
1. Register for UTME in that academic year – for 2025, you must have registered for JAMB UTME 2025.
2. Sit for the UTME exam – even if you plan to switch later, you must have written the exam.
3. Hold A’Level or Diploma qualifications – examples include:
- IJMB, JUPEB, Cambridge A’Levels, NABTEB A’Levels
- NCE, OND, HND, or a recognized diploma
Example: If you wrote UTME but you also have IJMB, you can convert to DE and start from 200 level instead of repeating 100 level.
Documents Required for JAMB UTME to Direct Entry (DE) conversion
The documents depend on whether you’re applying with A’Level results or Diploma/NCE/HND results.
For A’Level holders (JUPEB, IJMB, Cambridge, etc.):
- UTME result printout
- O’Level result printout (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB)
- Original A’Level result (not photocopy)
- Admission letter from the institution where you did your A’Level programme
For Diploma/NCE/HND holders:
- UTME result printout
- O’Level result printout
- Diploma transcript (OND/NCE/HND, etc.)
- JAMB admission letter
Important: If your diploma admission wasn’t through JAMB, you need to do JAMB regularisation first. Regularisation gives you a valid JAMB admission letter, which you must present before conversion.
How to Convert UTME to Direct Entry (2025/2026)
Here’s the exact process to follow:
- Go to a JAMB office – Every state has at least one JAMB office. If you don’t know the location, check the official JAMB website for addresses.
- Tell them you want a UTME to DE conversion – The staff will guide you
- Provide your documents – Make sure you carry all the required ones (both originals and photocopies).
- Wait for confirmation – Once done, you’ll be issued a new Direct Entry slip.
For the payment please when you visit JAMB office you will be informed.
When Did the JAMB UTME to Direct Entry conversion Start for 2025/2026?
The JAMB UTME to Direct Entry conversion for the 2025/2026 academic session officially started on 7th August 2025.
This means if you’re eligible, you can already begin the process at the nearest JAMB office.
What Happens After the JAMB UTME to Direct Entry (DE) conversion?
Once you’ve switched, here’s what changes:
New Registration Number – JAMB will change your UTME registration number. The new one usually ends with the letter “U”.
Changes on JAMB CAPS – Your CAPS will update, and you’ll notice a new status called “NIPED” that wasn’t there before.
Updates on School Portal – Your school’s admission portal will eventually reflect your new DE status. This usually happens before the Post-UTME/DE registration deadline.
So if you don’t see the update immediately, be patient — it takes some days.
What to Do After JAMB UTME to Direct Entry conversion
Switching to Direct Entry is only step one. After conversion, you must:
1. Submit Your DE Slip – Some schools require DE applicants to submit their slip either in person or online. Check your institution’s admission guidelines.
2. Register for DE Screening – Unlike UTME applicants who write post-UTME exams, DE candidates only do screening. Watch for when your school opens its portal for DE screening and register before the deadline.
Please Note: Before you convert and pick a school, make sure that the institution is still accepting Direct Entry applications. Don’t waste your conversion on a school that has already closed its admission portal for direct entry DE candidates.
FAQs About JAMB UTME to DE Conversion
Can I do the conversion in a café?
No. Please visit JAMB offices for the UTME to Direct entry (DE) conversion.
Do I need to write UTME first before I can convert to direct entry?
Yes. Writing UTME is one of the requirements before you can switch.
Will I still be considered for UTME admission after converting from JAMB UTME to Direct Entry?
No. Once you convert, you can only gain admission through DE.
Can I switch back to UTME later?
No. The process is one-way. Once converted, you remain a DE candidate.
Can I use awaiting results for conversion?
No. All your results (O’Level and A’Level/Diploma) must be ready before conversion.
Final Thoughts
The JAMB UTME to Direct Entry conversion is a a good step for students who already have higher qualifications but mistakenly registered for UTME. With it, you can move straight to 200 level instead of starting from 100 level.
The process might incur charges but we are not sure for now just visit JAMB office to know if there is any fee or if it’s free, remember the JAMB UTME to Direct Entry conversion must be done at JAMB office or JAMB accredited CBT center. All you need are the right documents and a little patience.
Remember: always check if your chosen institution is still accepting DE applications before converting. That way, you won’t waste time or opportunities. Are they still registering for direct entry? Find out from your institution first before you apply for the conversation.
If you have more questions about the conversion process, drop them in the comments and we’ll respond quickly.
