In my recent post, where I talked about IJMB cut-off marks for some Nigerian institutions and outlined the list of universities that accept IJMB, I felt the need to explain what IJMB means.
So here we are. Let’s talk about the full meaning of IJMB and JUPEB, their similarities and differences in 2022.
Enough talk. Let’s get into it.
Full meaning of IJMB
IJMB means Interim Joint Matriculation Board. It is a program established in 1976 to serve as an alternative to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) route for gaining admission into tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
The program is accredited by the Nigeria University Commission (NUC) and is accepted for direct admission into 200 level by some Nigerian Universities. It is worth noting that about 70% of IJMB students gain admission via direct entry.
Interested in registering for the IJMB exam? I have a complete guide for that here.
Full meaning of JUPEB
JUPEB means Joint Universities Preliminary Examination. It is an advanced-level program founded in late 2013 by about 10 Nigerian Universities, with the University of Lagos being the leader.
This program seems to be a life-changing opportunity for those who have tried to gain admission with JAMB UTME and failed. JUPEB is similar to pre-degree, just that it’s more advanced even though they run a similar syllabus.
Differences between IJMB and JUPEB
So what are the differences between IJMB and JUPEB?
- Ahmadu Bello University Zaria moderates IJMB, while the University of Lagos mediates JUPEB.
- IJMB is more affordable than JUPEB regarding registration fees, tuition, and other costs.
- JUPEB is recognized and accepted in most universities than IJMB.
- IJMB is popular in the Northern region of Nigeria, while JUPEB is prevalent in the country’s South-Western region.
- IJMB exams are done during February, while JUPEB examinations are conducted in May/June annually.
Similarities between JUPEB and IJMB
- Both programs are advanced-level programs like the Cambridge A-level program.
- IJMB and JUPEB are accredited by the Nigeria University Commission and approved by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
- Both programs allow students to gain admission into 200 level via direct entry.
- They use the same grading system and syllabus.
- After taking any of them, you don’t need to sit for JAMB again.
FAQ
Both have the same difficulty level since they are Advanced level examinations and use the same curriculum. Unless you did not prepare for the exams, they are as easy as O’-level exams.
The IJMB program lasts about 9-12 months and is divided into 2 semesters. However, it will take you almost 2 years to graduate.
Yes, JUPEB results can be used abroad for admission purposes. Some JUPEB-affiliated universities in the United Kingdom accept JUPEB results.
Although these programs are helpful, it’s not bad if we look at the disadvantages. I explained the detriments of IJMB here. The best choice between JUPEB and IJMB depends on the school you want to gain admission to, so you may need to check the JAMB brochure for their requirements.
Whether you are going for IJMB or IJMB, it’s important to know their meaning, similarities, and differences. Thankfully, I covered these things in this article. Don’t hesitate to comment below if you have questions about IJMB or JUPEB.
Sam is a brilliant young Nigerian biochemistry student and an aspiring entrepreneur. Despite facing many challenges, he has never lost his passion for learning and drive to make a difference in the world. Read more about him here.
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