Does most sought after universities mean most competitive universities? See here

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) releases list of schools with the highest number of applicants based on students who selected them as their first choice. As expected, the list often caused panic among some candidates who fear intense competition. 

Recommended: Download Post-UTME past questions and answers. 

But hold on—

Does "Most Sought After" Mean "Most Competitive"?

Not necessarily. Just because a school is among the most sought-after doesn't automatically mean it's the most competitive. Here's why:

1. Admission Quota Matters: Some of these popular schools have large admission quotas. This means they are allowed to admit more students compared to others, which can lower their overall competitiveness. A school with 10,000 applicants and a quota of 5,000 might actually be less competitive than one with 2,000 applicants and a quota of just 500.
2. Cut-Off Marks Are Not Fixed: Cut-off marks can go up or down depending on several factors, like candidates' performance in O-Level exams, JAMB scores, and Post-UTME results. These marks are not based on popularity alone. You can read more in this detailed guide on JAMB cut-off marks.
3. Different Courses, Different Competition Levels: Some departments or courses are more competitive than others, even within the same university. For instance, Medicine and Law usually attract more top-performing candidates than other courses.
4. University Policies Vary: Some schools give preference to catchment areas or indigene quotas, which can influence your chances, regardless of the number of applicants.
5. Performance Trends Change Every Year: The level of competition in any given school varies year by year depending on how well students perform. Don’t assume this year will be the same as the last.
6. Not All Applicants Meet Requirements: Out of thousands who apply to a school, many don't meet barest minimum qualifications (e.g., wrong subject combination, low JAMB score, etc.), reducing the actual competition.
7. Some Candidates Will Switch Schools: Many students eventually change their institution during the change of course/institution period. So, the final number of competing candidates might be significantly lower.
8. Catchment Areas and ELDS Advantage: If you're from a catchment area or an educationally less developed state (ELDS), you might benefit from special admission considerations, making admission easier.
9. Private and State Universities Are Also Viable: Don’t overlook good private and state universities. They often have fewer applicants and better chances of admission. Some offer scholarships or flexible payment plans too.

So, don’t panic just because your school is on the list of most sought-after universities, polytechnics, and colleges in Nigeria. Admission is based on multiple factors, and being strategic and well-prepared can still give you an edge.

What Should You Do?

• Study hard and aim for high scores in both JAMB and Post-UTME.
• Practice with past questions to understand the exam pattern.
• Apply to alternative schools or courses if you're unsure about your chances.
• Stay informed about admission updates and deadlines.
• Make sure your O'Level results and subject combinations are correct.
• Ask questions and seek guidance from reliable education platforms or mentors.

Good luck!