Worried your low JAMB score might cost you admission? Don’t panic, Post-UTME is your second chance to turn things around and get into your dream university. Many Nigerian institutions place strong emphasis on Post-UTME, and performing well can boost your chances of gaining admission, even if your UTME score isn’t impressive.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to pass Post-UTME, no matter your JAMB result:
What Is Post-UTME and Why It Matters
Post-UTME (Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) is a screening test conducted by universities in Nigeria to evaluate candidates who passed JAMB. It plays a key role in the university admission process and, in many cases, carries as much weight or even more than your JAMB score.
So, even with a low UTME result, you can still gain admission if you ace your Post-UTME.
1. Understand Your School’s Admission Formula
Different universities use different grading systems:
- Some use a 50-50 ratio for JAMB and Post-UTME scores.
- Others give more weight to Post-UTME—sometimes up to 60%.
Knowing your school’s admission formula helps you plan better. For example, if Post-UTME has a higher weight, a strong performance can easily compensate for a low JAMB score.
Also, check the exam format. Most universities use Computer-Based Testing (CBT), while a few still rely on paper-based exams. Understanding the format helps you prepare strategically.
2. Practice with Past Post-UTME Questions
Want to know the secret weapon? Past questions.
Many schools repeat questions or follow similar patterns every year. Practicing past Post-UTME questions helps you:
- Understand question patterns
- Identify frequently tested topics
- Improve accuracy and speed
You can buy these past questions from the university or find reliable online sources. Make sure to practice questions related to your chosen course for example:
- Science students: Focus on Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
- Arts students: Concentrate on English, Literature, and Government
3. Focus on Strengths and Improve Weaknesses
Post-UTME usually tests four subjects: English and three others relevant to your course.
- If there’s a subject you struggled with in JAMB, now is your chance to work on it.
- Double down on subjects you’re good at to maximize your overall score.
- Don’t forget Current Affairs, some schools include general knowledge questions. Stay updated by reading the news for a few minutes daily.
Use your JAMB syllabus as a guide, it often aligns closely with the Post-UTME content.
4. Create and Stick to a Study Schedule
Cramming doesn’t work. Instead:
- Study in 1–2 hour sessions with short breaks
- Prioritize weaker subjects but don’t neglect your strong areas
- Use Post-UTME mobile apps and mock tests to simulate the real exam
- Take timed mock exams regularly to build confidence and time management skills
Consistency is key, study a little every day instead of trying to do everything last-minute.
5. Master Time Management
Time is limited in Post-UTME exams, especially if it’s CBT. To avoid running out of time:
- Practice answering questions quickly
- Skip difficult questions and come back to them later
- Don’t spend too long on one question, every second counts
6. Stay Calm and Confident on Exam Day
Your mindset matters. To stay calm:
- Sleep well the night before
- Eat a healthy meal
- Arrive at the exam venue early
- Breathe, stay focused, and trust your preparation
Remember, a low JAMB score doesn’t define your abilities. Post-UTME is your opportunity to prove yourself.
Many students with low UTME scores have gained admission by acing the Post-UTME. Start now, get past questions, follow a study plan, and prepare with confidence.
