How Post-UTME Screening Works (and How Your Aggregate Is Calculated)

What is Post-UTME?

After UTME, most universities and polytechnics run their own screening before offering admission. Some set a written or CBT test; others only screen your documents and O'Level results.

Only candidates who chose the school and scored at or above its published UTME cut-off can register. Registration and payment are always done on the school's official website.

The common types of screening

• CBT or written test — usually English, Mathematics, General Knowledge and subjects from your UTME combination.
• Document screening only — the school uses your UTME score and O'Level grades; no test is written.
• Combined — test score plus O'Level grade points.

How aggregate scores are commonly calculated

Every school publishes its own formula, so always read your school's screening notice. A popular method is 50/50: your UTME score divided by 8 (out of 50) plus your Post-UTME score converted to 50.

Example: UTME 240 ÷ 8 = 30. Post-UTME 70% of 50 = 35. Aggregate = 30 + 35 = 65%.

Schools that screen O'Level results add points for grades (for example A1 scores higher than C6), so good WAEC or NECO grades can raise your aggregate.

How to prepare

• Revise your four UTME subjects — most Post-UTME questions come from the same topics.
• Practise English comprehension, synonyms and antonyms, and simple arithmetic speed.
• Read current affairs: Nigerian leaders, recent national events, and world organisations.
• Take timed CBT practice so you are comfortable with the screen and the clock.
• Prepare your documents early: JAMB result slip, O'Level result, birth certificate, state of origin letter and passport photographs.

Frequently asked questions