How a Diploma Can Help You Gain Admission Into University (Full 2025 Direct Entry Guide)
Many students think JAMB UTME is the only route into university, but that is not true. A diploma programme remains one of the most reliable alternative pathways to gain admission, especially for students who want to enter 200 level directly. With the right diploma certificate, good grades, and proper documentation, a student can secure admission into various universities—federal, state, or private—without passing through the stress of UTME again.
This article explains how the diploma route works, the requirements, benefits, challenges, and examples of universities offering diploma programmes along with their typical school fee ranges.
What Exactly Is a Diploma Programme?
A diploma is a one or two-year academic programme designed to provide both theoretical and practical knowledge in a specific field. It can be offered by universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, or specialised institutes. After completing a diploma and earning a strong grade—usually Upper Credit—a student becomes eligible to apply for university admission through Direct Entry (DE).
Diploma programmes exist in areas such as:
- Public Administration
- Mass Communication
- Computer Studies
- Education
- Business Administration
- Social Sciences
- Environmental Sciences
How Diploma Leads to University Admission
The process is straightforward, but each step is important. Here is how it works:
- Complete a recognised diploma programme.
- Earn at least Upper Credit. Some universities accept Lower Credit, but competition is higher.
- Purchase the Direct Entry (DE) form.
- Upload your O’Level and diploma transcripts.
- Apply to your preferred university.
- Attend screening or interview if required.
- Gain admission into 200 level.
One of the biggest advantages is that diploma students do not need to write UTME again. Instead, they rely on their diploma certificate to gain entry.
Minimum Requirements for Using Diploma to Gain University Admission
Although requirements differ from school to school, the general expectations are as follows:
- At least 5 O’Level credits in relevant subjects, including English Language.
- A strong diploma result — Upper Credit is usually the safest target.
- A course connection between your diploma and the degree programme you want to study.
- Official transcript from the institution where you completed your diploma.
Choosing a course that matches your diploma increases your chances of being admitted into 200 level.
Advantages of Using Diploma to Enter University
- You skip 100 level and begin from 200 level.
- You avoid rewriting UTME.
- You gain practical knowledge before starting your degree.
- It is perfect for students who scored low in UTME.
- It provides an opportunity to change career direction.
For many students, the diploma route offers hope and a second chance after UTME failure or struggles.
Limitations of Diploma Route
- Some competitive courses (Medicine, Law, Nursing, Pharmacy) rarely accept diploma for Direct Entry.
- Admission is still competitive—strong grades matter.
- Some universities require departmental interviews or internal screening.
- Diploma fees in some private universities can be expensive.
Despite these challenges, thousands of students gain admission through diploma every year.
Examples of Universities That Offer Diploma Programmes (With School Fees)
Below are examples of known Nigerian universities (federal, state, and private) that run diploma programmes and their typical school fee ranges. Fees vary slightly depending on the course and campus, but these are the common ranges:
1. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Type: Federal University
- Typical Diploma Programmes: Public Administration, Mass Communication, Social Work, Business Admin.
- Fee Range: ₦150,000 – ₦300,000 per session
- Link: UNILAG Official Site
2. University of Ibadan (UI)
- Type: Federal University
- Typical Programmes: Social Work, Public Health Education, Adult Education.
- Fee Range: ₦120,000 – ₦250,000
- Link: UI Official Website
3. Lagos State University (LASU)
- Type: State University
- Typical Programmes: Diploma in Public Admin, Communication, Library Science.
- Fee Range: ₦80,000 – ₦200,000
- Link: LASU Website
4. Kwara State University (KWASU)
- Type: State University
- Programmes: Part-time and diploma in business, sciences, and humanities.
- Fee Range: ₦120,000 – ₦250,000
- Link: Visit Website
5. Babcock University (Private)
- Type: Private University
- Programmes: Pre-degree and foundation diplomas.
- Fee Range: ₦400,000 – ₦800,000
- Link: Official Website
6. Crawford University (Private)
- Fee Range: ₦350,000 – ₦700,000
- Programmes: Diploma in Business Studies, Mass Communication, Social Sciences.
7. Caleb University (Private)
- Fee Range: ₦450,000 – ₦900,000
- Programmes: Diploma and foundation programmes
Other polytechnics and colleges offering ND/NCE also qualify students for Direct Entry, depending on their results and course alignment.
Step-by-Step Guide for Students Planning the Diploma Route
- Choose a reputable school. Avoid unaccredited diploma centres.
- Check the university’s Direct Entry policy.
- Target Upper Credit.
- Gather all documents early.
- Save money for transcript and screening fees.
Good preparation makes the admission process smooth and predictable.
Internal Resources (Useful for Students)
Conclusion
A diploma is more than a certificate—it is a powerful second chance for students who want university admission without the stress of UTME. With the right grades, good documentation, and a clear understanding of Direct Entry rules, a diploma holder can confidently secure a spot in the university starting from 200 level. Many universities—federal, state, and private—accept diploma students every year, making it one of the most flexible admission routes available.
If you are considering alternatives to UTME or seeking a smoother entry into higher education, the diploma pathway is one of the smartest options to explore.
