The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially released the list of the most sought-after institutions in Nigeria for the 2025 academic year, based on the choices made by candidates during the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). This ranking reflects the preferences of over 1.9 million candidates who participated in the UTME and highlights the institutions most favored for their academic stability, prestige, and course offerings.
According to the board, 10 universities emerged as the top choices among candidates, with some schools recording tens of thousands of applicants selecting them as first-choice institutions.
Full List of the Most Sought-After Universities in 2025
Here is a breakdown of the top 10 universities and the number of first-choice applications they received in the 2025 UTME:
| Rank | Institution | Number of First-Choice Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lagos State University (LASU) | 70,080 |
| 2 | University of Lagos (UNILAG) | 58,645 |
| 3 | University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) | 56,758 |
| 4 | Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) | 52,108 |
| 5 | Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (UNIZIK) | 51,487 |
| 6 | University of Ibadan (UI) | 47,571 |
| 7 | University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | 46,273 |
| 8 | University of Benin (UNIBEN) | 45,868 |
| 9 | Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (OAU) | 45,777 |
| 10 | Federal University, Lafia (FULAFIA) | 42,962 |
These institutions accounted for a significant percentage of the total applications received by JAMB, confirming their popularity among admission seekers nationwide.
Why These Universities Are Most Preferred
Several key factors contribute to the popularity of these institutions:
✅ Academic Stability
Many candidates prefer institutions like UNILORIN, UI, and UNILAG because of their stable academic calendars, minimal strike actions, and strong reputation for quality education.
✅ Strategic Location
Lagos State University (LASU) tops the chart, partly due to its location in Nigeria’s commercial capital. Proximity to job opportunities and urban lifestyle continues to make LASU a top pick for prospective students.
✅ Competitive Courses and Facilities
Universities like UNIBEN, UNN, OAU, and UNIZIK offer a wide range of competitive courses in Medicine, Law, Engineering, Arts, and Sciences, attracting large numbers of applicants.
✅ Lower Cut-Off Marks
Institutions such as FUOYE and FULAFIA appeal to candidates due to more accessible admission criteria and inclusive policies, giving more students a chance to gain admission.
⚠️ The Challenge of Limited Admission Slots
Despite their popularity, these top universities have limited carrying capacities. With over 1.9 million candidates sitting for the UTME in 2025, only a fraction will secure admission, especially in these high-demand institutions.
This makes it crucial for candidates to:
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Apply strategically, including backup institutions.
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Prepare thoroughly for Post-UTME screening.
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Stay updated on departmental cut-off marks and admission policies.
Advice for 2025 Admission Seekers
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Avoid putting all your hopes on one institution. Even if you pick a top school, include a second choice that is less competitive.
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Watch for updates on Post-UTME forms and prepare well ahead of time.
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Stay informed on departmental cut-off marks, which often vary significantly from the general institution cut-off.
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Choose wisely based on your UTME score, course competitiveness, and institution’s past admission records.
Final Note
This new data from JAMB not only highlights the most preferred universities in Nigeria but also underscores the intense competition for limited admission slots. Candidates are encouraged to stay proactive, realistic, and strategic as the 2025 admission process continues.
Keep checking this platform for timely updates on:
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Post-UTME Screening Dates
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School Admission Lists
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Cut-Off Marks
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Change of Course/Institution Guidelines