In Nigeria, gaining admission into a university is a competitive process that revolves around two important examinations: the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and the Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (PUTME or Post UTME). These exams, governed by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and individual universities, respectively, serve as critical filters for candidates aiming to secure a spot in higher education institutions. Below, we explore how these exams work, their scoring methods, and tips for succeeding in the PUTME, with insights into how some universities approach the admissions process differently.
What is UTME?
The Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), introduced by JAMB in 1978, was initially aimed at standardizing the admissions process across Nigerian universities. Over the years, the UTME has evolved to accommodate a wider array of academic programs and institutions, including polytechnics and colleges of education. Prior to its introduction, each university conducted its own entrance exams, which led to inconsistencies in admission standards across the country. By centralizing the process, JAMB helped to create a level playing field for all students.
Purpose of the UTME
The UTME remains the primary requirement for admission into Nigerian universities. However, its role has evolved as the academic landscape in Nigeria has changed. Initially, the UTME score alone was the key determinant of university admission. Over time, universities recognized the need for more tailored assessments, especially for competitive courses like medicine, law, and engineering, which led to the introduction of the PUTME in 2005. Today, while the UTME is crucial, it serves primarily as a preliminary screening tool.
Structure of the UTME
The UTME consists of four subjects, one of which is English Language (compulsory for all candidates). The other three subjects are determined by the student’s chosen course of study. For instance:
- A science student may take Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.
- An arts student may take Literature, Government, and Christian Religious Studies.
UTME Structure Overview
| Subject | Question Type | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|
| English | Multiple-Choice | 100 |
| Mathematics | Multiple-Choice | 100 |
| Subject 1 | Multiple-Choice | 100 |
| Subject 2 | Multiple-Choice | 100 |
A total of 400 marks is available. JAMB has modified the structure over time, adding Computer-Based Testing (CBT) to modernize the process and reduce malpractices, making the exam more accessible to candidates across Nigeria.
What is PUTME?
The Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (PUTME) was introduced by Nigerian universities in 2005 to address the limitations of using the UTME score alone as a measure of student preparedness. This change came in response to concerns from universities that some candidates, despite having high UTME scores, struggled to meet academic expectations once admitted.
Purpose of the PUTME
PUTME allows universities to fine-tune the selection process by further assessing the knowledge and skills of candidates. Through this exam, universities evaluate the readiness of candidates for specific academic programs, ensuring they possess the necessary competencies. The introduction of the PUTME also helped universities regain some control over their admission standards, which had been largely left to JAMB following the introduction of the UTME.
Universities like the University of Ibadan (UI) and the University of Lagos (UNILAG), both highly competitive institutions, place significant emphasis on the PUTME. These universities often use the exam to filter out candidates who may have performed well in the UTME but might not meet the academic rigors of their programs.
Structure of the PUTME
Unlike the standardized UTME, the format of the PUTME varies by institution. Some universities, such as Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), use a computer-based test similar to the UTME, while others may include essay components to test a student’s ability to articulate ideas clearly. The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), for example, often emphasizes critical thinking and general knowledge alongside course-specific questions.
Common formats for the PUTME include:
- Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs): This format is similar to the UTME and is used by many institutions.
- Short Answer/Essay Questions: Some universities incorporate written sections to assess candidates’ analytical skills and depth of understanding.
- Problem-Solving Tasks: For technical fields like engineering or computer science, problem-solving questions are frequently used to test candidates’ applied knowledge.
Scoring the UTME and PUTME
UTME Scoring
The UTME score ranges from 0 to 400, and each university sets its own cut-off mark based on the competitiveness of its programs. For example, competitive courses like medicine at top institutions like UI or law at UNILAG typically have cut-off marks around 250-270, while less competitive programs may accept candidates with scores closer to 180-200.
PUTME Scoring and Weighting
The PUTME score is combined with the UTME score to calculate an aggregate score. Different universities use various formulas to weigh the UTME and PUTME results. The 50-50 formula, which gives equal weight to both exams, is common but not universal. Some institutions like UI may place a higher emphasis on PUTME scores for courses that require critical thinking or advanced technical skills.
For example, a candidate applying for engineering at UI might see a formula where 60% weight is given to the PUTME and 40% to the UTME. In contrast, UNILAG may stick with a 50-50 approach for courses like business administration but increase the weight of PUTME for law or medicine.
Example of Aggregate Score Calculation
Let’s take the University of Lagos (UNILAG) as an example. If the formula is 50-50, a candidate with a UTME score of 280 and a PUTME score of 80 would calculate their aggregate score like this:
- UTME Contribution: (280 / 400) * 50 = 35
- PUTME Contribution: (80 / 100) * 50 = 40
Total Aggregate Score = 35 + 40 = 75
This aggregate score would then be compared against the department’s cut-off mark for that academic year.
How to Prepare for PUTME
Preparing for the PUTME involves more than just reviewing UTME materials. Since universities design their own PUTME exams, candidates must tailor their preparation to the specific requirements of their chosen institution.
1. Study University-Specific Past Questions
Many universities, such as UI and UNILAG, base their PUTME questions on past exams or specific subject areas they emphasize. Acquiring past question papers from your target university will help you understand the format, common question types, and areas of focus. For example, UI tends to test critical reasoning and general knowledge, while UNILAG may focus more heavily on course-related subjects.
2. Focus on Core Subjects
Since the PUTME is designed to test students on their intended course of study, it’s essential to review core subjects relevant to that field. If you’re aiming for medicine, prioritize biology, chemistry, and physics. If you’re pursuing law, focus on subjects like literature and government.
3. Prepare for Different Formats
Some universities, such as OAU or UNN, may incorporate short essays or problem-solving tasks. Practice writing brief, well-structured essays on relevant topics and solving complex problems under time constraints.
4. Stay Updated on Policy Changes
PUTME formats and scoring methods can change from year to year. Regularly check your target university’s website for updates on cut-off marks, exam dates, and format changes. Universities like UNILAG and OAU have been known to modify their PUTME structures based on academic trends.
Conclusion
The UTME and PUTME are key components of the Nigerian university admissions process. While the UTME provides a standardized baseline, the PUTME offers universities a more tailored assessment of candidates’ readiness for specific academic programs. Understanding how different institutions weigh and structure these exams is critical for students seeking admission to competitive courses. With thorough preparation, familiarity with each university’s approach, and strategic study methods, candidates can maximize their chances of success in these important exams.