Full Lists of Universities That Accept Second Choice Candidates in Nigeria (Updated Guide)

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Choosing the right university during your JAMB registration is one of the most important steps toward gaining admission in Nigeria. However, many students make the mistake of selecting universities that do not accept second-choice candidates, which later affects their chances of getting admission.

The good news is that some universities in Nigeria accept second-choice candidates, and in this updated list, you will see all of them, including Federal, State, and Private institutions. This guide also explains factors you must understand before choosing a school as second choice, plus tips to increase your chances of getting admitted.

Let’s get started.

Do Universities Accept Second Choice Candidates in Nigeria?

Yes, some universities accept second-choice candidates, but not all.
In fact, many top universities like UNILAG, UI, UNN, OAU, UNIBEN, and ABU Zaria do NOT accept second-choice candidates at all.

Only a limited number of universities accept second-choice applications, and most of them fall under:

• State Universities
• Private Universities
• Some Federal Universities (very few)

Important Things You Must Know Before Choosing a University as Second Choice

Before selecting any institution as second choice in your JAMB registration, note the following:

1. Second Choice Admission Is Not Guaranteed

Even universities that accept second-choice candidates mostly consider first-choice applicants first.

2. Most Competitive Courses Are Not Available for Second Choice

Courses like Medicine, Law, Pharmacy, Nursing, and Engineering are hardly given to second-choice applicants.

3. Private Universities Are More Open to Second-Choice

They mostly accept students regardless of the choice selection.

4. Federal Universities Rarely Accept Second Choice

Only a few less-competitive Federal Universities may consider second-choice candidates.

5. You Must Meet the Cut-Off Mark

Even if the school accepts second-choice applicants, your JAMB score must meet their requirement.

Full Lists of Universities That Accept Second Choice Candidates in Nigeria ( Updated)

Below is the updated list of Nigerian universities that accept second-choice candidates. This list is frequently updated based on school admission policies.

Federal Universities That Accept Second Choice Candidates

Only a very small number of Federal Universities accept second-choice candidates. They usually consider them if the number of first-choice applicants is low.

1. Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE)

FUOYE sometimes considers second-choice applicants for less competitive courses, depending on the year.

2. Federal University, Dutse (FUD)

Some departments in FUD accept second-choice candidates based on available admission slots.

3. Federal University, Wukari (FUWUKARI)

Known to accept second-choice candidates for selected courses.

4. Federal University, Lafia (FULAFIA)

FULAFIA occasionally accepts second-choice applications, depending on department.

5. Federal University, Kashere (FUK)

This university is open to second-choice candidates in several programs.

State Universities That Accept Second-Choice Candidates

Many state universities in Nigeria accept second-choice applicants because they want more student enrollment.

Here are the most reliable ones:

1. Lagos State University (LASU)

LASU accepts second-choice candidates for certain programmes, but competition is still high.

2. Ekiti State University (EKSU)

Known to always accept second-choice candidates.

3. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)

OOU is one of the most consistent universities that accept second-choice applicants.

4. Osun State University (UNIOSUN)

UNIOSUN accepts second choice for several courses except highly competitive ones.

5. Delta State University (DELSU)

DELSU accepts second choice but gives priority to first-choice applicants.

6. Benue State University (BSU)

BSU accepts second-choice applicants annually.

7. Imo State University (IMSU)

A popular second-choice university for many students.

8. Abia State University (ABSU)

ABSU accepts many second-choice candidates every year.

9. Anambra State University (ANSU / COOU)

Consistently admits second-choice applicants.

10. Kogi State University (KSU)

Open to second-choice candidates except for major competitive courses.

11. Kaduna State University (KASU)

Often accepts second-choice candidates.

12. Ebonyi State University (EBSU)

Another state university that accepts second-choice entries.

Private Universities That Accept Second-Choice Candidates

Almost all private universities in Nigeria accept second-choice candidates because they are trying to increase student enrollment.

Below are the popular ones:

1. Babcock University

Accepts students regardless of choice selection.

2. Bowen University

Completely open to second-choice applicants.

3. Covenant University

Accepts students but has its own screening.

4. Redeemer’s University

Highly flexible with admissions.

5. Madonna University

6. Igbinedion University

7. Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)

8. Lead City University

9. Benson Idahosa University

10. Caleb University

Private universities rarely reject any candidate who meets their requirements.

Why Some Universities Do Not Accept Second-Choice Candidates

Top universities such as:

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• University of Ibadan (UI)
• University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)
• University of Benin (UNIBEN)
• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

…receive a very high number of applications every year.

Because of the competition, they only consider first-choice candidates.

How to Increase Your Chances of Gaining Admission with a Second Choice

If you still want to choose a school as second choice, follow these tips:

1. Pick Less Competitive Courses

Avoid courses like Medicine, Nursing, Law, Pharmacy, Engineering, and Optometry.

2. Score High in JAMB

Schools may accept second‐choice candidates only if they meet a high cut-off mark.

3. Apply Early for Post-UTME

Some schools treat applications on a first-come, first-served basis.

4. Consider State or Private Universities

They are more flexible with second‐choice candidates.

5. Be Ready to Change Institution

If needed, use JAMB Change of Institution to switch to a school where your admission chance is higher.

FAQs About Second-Choice Universities in Nigeria

1. Can I gain admission with second choice?

Yes, but your chances are lower compared to first-choice applicants.

2. Which universities accept second choice for Medicine or Nursing?

Almost none. These courses are too competitive.

3. Do private universities accept second choice?

Yes, almost all private universities accept second-choice candidates.

4. Which university is the best to use as second choice?

Good options include OOU, EKSU, UNIOSUN, ABSU, and IMSU.

Read Also: OAU Cut-Off Mark 2026/2027 – JAMB & Departmental Requirements

Choosing the right university when filling out your JAMB form is extremely important. While many top universities do not accept second-choice candidates, several Federal, State, and Private institutions are still open to them.

Use this updated list of universities that accept second-choice candidates in Nigeria to increase your chances of getting admission in and beyond.