Understanding the Differences Between Post-UTME Exams and Screening in Nigeria; For Nigerian students hoping to get into universities and polytechnics, the Post-UTME process is a big deal. However, it’s important to know the difference between Post-UTME exams and screening, as these are not the same and can affect your chances of getting in.
In this Student Village article, we’ll explain the main differences between these two processes and share examples from Nigerian schools.
Understanding the Differences Between Post-UTME Exams and Screening in Nigeria
We’ll also answer some common questions about UTME screening and post-UTME screening.
FAQ 1: What is UTME screening?
Answer: UTME stands for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, which is a big test students take to get into higher education in Nigeria. UTME screening is the first step where schools look at your UTME scores to decide if you qualify for admission.
- Purpose and Objective
- Post-UTME Exams: These are tests to see if you’re ready for college. They have questions about the subjects you want to study.
- Post-UTME Screening: This looks at more than just your UTME scores. It checks your UTME scores, your grades from previous exams (like WAEC or NECO), and sometimes other things like where you’re from.
FAQ 2: How can I do well in post-UTME screening / exam?
Answer: To do well in Post-UTME screening, follow these tips:
- Study hard: Learn what you need for your chosen course.
- Look at old questions: Get used to the kind of questions you’ll see in post-UTME exams.
- Stay informed: Keep up with any changes your school makes to their admission rules.
- Follow instructions: Do what your school tells you to do when you apply and take the exam.
Also if the Post-UTME screening process doesn’t require an exam, the best way to do well is to submit your documents correctly for the screening process, Your O’level result must have at least credits in relevant subjects, especially Maths and English Language, also your JAMB subject combination must be in line with what the course entails.
- Content and Format
- Post-UTME Exams: These tests have questions about subjects like math, English, and your chosen course. For example, if you want to study medicine, you’ll have questions about biology, chemistry, and physics.
- Post-UTME Screening: This looks at lots of things, not just your exam scores. It checks your UTME scores, your grades from previous exams (like WAEC or NECO), and sometimes other things like your state of origin for catchment area purposes. That is why a student from Kogi State has a higher chance of gaining admission into the University of Ilorin, than a student from oyo state if catchment area advantages are included.
FAQ 3: What is online screening?
Answer: Online screening means you send your documents and information through the Internet as part of your admission application. Some schools use this to make it easier for students to apply.
- How Much Do UTME Scores Matter?
- Post-UTME Exams: In some schools with very competitive courses, your Post-UTME exam score is really important. For example, if two students have similar UTME scores but different Post-UTME scores, the one with the higher score might get in.
- Post-UTME Screening: This looks at lots of things and gives each one a score. For example, your UTME scores might be worth 40%, your previous exam grades 30%, and other things like where you’re from 30%.
FAQ 4: Is post-UTME also screening?
Answer: Post-UTME can be both an exam and a screening process. Some schools give exams, while others use a screening process to decide who gets in.
FAQ 5: What happens during post-UTME screening?
Answer: During post-UTME screening, schools look at your UTME scores, your previous exam grades, and sometimes other things to decide if you’re a good fit for their programs. They want students who meet their rules for admission, not just those who do well in exams.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between post-UTME exams and post-UTME screenings is important for Nigerian students applying to universities and polytechnics. Make sure to check your school’s admission process so you can prepare correctly.
By following the tips and answers provided here, you can increase your chances of getting into the school you want.
