The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has continued its admission screening process using a JAMB-WAEC-based aggregate formula following the suspension of post-UTME in recent years. This model, which awards 90% weight to the JAMB score and 10% to WAEC results, serves as the benchmark for determining admission eligibility into various departments for prospective undergraduates.
According to the framework observed last year and likely to be adopted in 2025, the university calculates an aggregate score over 400, based on a weighted combination of candidates’ Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and O’Level results. JAMB scores contribute a significant 90%, while WAEC grades are scaled to contribute 10%. Candidates who sat for WAEC in only one sitting are awarded an additional 40 bonus marks, enhancing their chances.
A specific conversion table, described as the UNN WAEC Grade Key, is used in evaluating candidates’ WAEC results. Under this scale, A1 is rated at 90 points, B2 at 80, B3 at 70, C4 at 60, C5 at 50, and C6 at 40. Scores below C6, including D7 to F9, carry no points. The scores of the four core subjects relevant to the candidate’s proposed course are summed, then the bonus 40 marks for one sitting are added (if applicable). The resultant score is scaled down to 10%.
To illustrate the process, The Nigeria Education News examined a real-life scenario involving a 2025 UTME candidate named Ada, who applied to study Business Management at UNN. Ada scored 250 in her UTME and had the following grades in her WAEC core subjects: English (B3), Mathematics (B2), Economics (B2), and Commerce (A1).
Using the UNN WAEC Grade Key, Ada’s scores break down as follows: English B3 = 70, Mathematics B2 = 80, Economics B2 = 80, and Commerce A1 = 90. The sum of these grades gives 320, and with the additional 40 marks for one sitting, the total becomes 360. Taking 10% of this figure results in 36 points from WAEC.
For the JAMB score, 90% of 250 gives 225 points. Ada’s aggregate admission screening score is thus 225 (JAMB) + 36 (WAEC) = 261. In comparison, the cut-off mark for Business Management at UNN last year was around 213, meaning Ada comfortably surpasses the threshold by 48 points.
UNN’s non-post-UTME admission screening policy has gained traction for its clarity and fairness, although it remains subject to change should the university decide to reintroduce aptitude tests. Admission seekers are advised to closely monitor the UNN official portal for updated announcements.
The Nigeria Education News spoke with several education consultants who noted that this screening approach favors candidates with strong UTME performance and solid O’Level results in a single sitting. “This model rewards consistency,” said Mr. Clement Eze, an education analyst in Enugu. “A candidate with a decent JAMB score and clean WAEC result in one sitting stands a strong chance.”
The Registrar of UNN, Dr. Chris Igbokwe, has previously stated that the institution’s goal is to maintain high academic standards while ensuring that prospective students are evaluated on merit. “We are committed to fairness and transparency in the admission process,” he said.
As of now, the 2025 admission cycle is expected to follow the same pattern unless an official directive suggests otherwise. Candidates and guardians are encouraged to prepare early and double-check their subject combinations and performance across both UTME and WAEC to ensure eligibility.
For continuous updates on university admissions and education news across Nigeria, stay connected with The Nigeria Education News.
