Post-UTME Subjects and Question Formats Breakdown

The Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (Post-UTME) is a critical step for students seeking admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Conducted by individual institutions, it serves as a screening process to select candidates who meet specific academic and aptitude requirements after passing the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) UTME.

The Post-UTME varies across institutions in terms of subjects tested, question formats, and exam structure, making preparation challenging yet essential. Understanding the subjects and question formats is key to excelling, as it allows candidates to focus their study efforts and manage time effectively during the exam.

Subjects and question formats Tested in Post-UTME

The subjects tested in Post-UTME depend on the institution, the candidate’s chosen course, and the subjects taken during the JAMB UTME. Most universities align their Post-UTME subjects with the four subjects selected for the UTME, ensuring relevance to the candidate’s intended field of study. However, some institutions include additional subjects or general papers to assess broader knowledge. Below is an overview of common subject combinations based on course types:

• Science-Based Courses (e.g., Medicine, Engineering, Pharmacy): Candidates typically write English Language (compulsory), Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, or Biology, depending on the course. For example, Medicine and Surgery candidates at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, often face questions in English, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry.

• Art-Based Courses (e.g., Law, English, History): Common subjects include English Language, Literature-in-English, Government, Christian Religious Studies (CRS), or History. For instance, Law aspirants at the University of Lagos may be tested on English, Literature, Government, and Economics.

• Social Science Courses (e.g., Accounting, Economics): Candidates are often tested on English Language, Mathematics, Economics, and Government or Commerce. Accounting students at the University of Ilorin, for example, typically encounter these subjects.

• General Papers: Some institutions, like the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) or Nigerian Police Academy (POLAC), include a General Paper covering current affairs, history, geography, or social studies to assess general knowledge.

• Institution-Specific Variations: Universities like the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, may include Agricultural Science for relevant courses, while others like Delta State University (DELSU) might test candidates on Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, or Current Affairs alongside core subjects.

The number of subjects typically ranges from three to five. Federal universities often test four subjects aligned with JAMB combinations, while some state universities may test three, including English and a General Paper. Candidates should confirm the exact subject combination for their chosen institution and course.

Post-UTME Question Formats

Post-UTME exams primarily consist of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), but some institutions incorporate other formats to evaluate different skills. Below is a breakdown of common question formats:

• Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs): The most prevalent format across institutions, MCQs require candidates to select the correct answer from four or five options. They test knowledge, comprehension, and quick decision-making. For example, science students may encounter questions like: “What is the primary source of energy for Earth’s climate system?” with options including the sun, geothermal energy, or fossil fuels.

• Essay-Type Questions: Some universities, such as Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), may include essay questions to assess analytical and writing skills, especially for arts or law candidates. These require detailed responses, such as analyzing a literary text or discussing a historical event.

• Theory Questions: Less common, these involve short-answer responses and are used by institutions like the University of Ibadan (UI) for specific courses. For example, a chemistry question might ask candidates to describe the process of electrolysis.

• Computer-Based Tests (CBTs): Most federal universities, such as the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), administer Post-UTME as CBTs, featuring 50–100 MCQs to be completed in 30–60 minutes. The number of questions and time allotted varies by institution.

• Paper-Based Examinations (PBE): Some state universities and polytechnics use paper-based tests, which may include a mix of MCQs and theory questions. For example, the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, often employs this format.

• Oral Interviews/Screening: Institutions like the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, may combine written tests with oral interviews or document screening, particularly for professional courses like Medicine.

The number of questions typically ranges from 30 to 100, with time limits requiring candidates to answer quickly and accurately. Practicing past questions is crucial to understanding the format and improving speed.

Preparation Strategies

To excel in Post-UTME, candidates should adopt a strategic approach to preparation:

1. Understand the Exam Format: Research the specific format used by your institution. Check past questions or consult current students to confirm the number of subjects, question types, and time limits.

2. Study the JAMB Syllabus: Since most Post-UTME subjects align with JAMB combinations, use the JAMB syllabus to focus on key topics in subjects like English, Mathematics, Biology, or Economics.

3. Practice Past Questions: Past questions reveal recurring topics and question styles. For example, UNILORIN candidates might notice frequent questions on algebraic equations in Mathematics or comprehension passages in English.

4. Use Recommended Textbooks: Study with textbooks like Lamlad’s SSCE & UTME Chemistry by F.O. Ayinde for science subjects or Comprehensive Government for social sciences to cover essential topics.

5. Simulate Exam Conditions: Practice with a timer to improve speed and accuracy, especially for CBTs. Apps like ExamGuide or ExcelMind offer mock tests that mimic real exam conditions.

6. Join Study Groups: Collaborate with peers to clarify difficult topics and share resources. Group discussions can enhance retention and understanding.

7. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify and prioritize weaker subjects or topics through practice tests to ensure balanced preparation.

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FAQs

How many subjects are tested in Post-UTME?

The number of subjects varies by institution. Most federal universities test four subjects based on the candidate’s JAMB combination, while some state universities test three, often including English and a General Paper. Check your institution’s requirements.

Are Post-UTME questions the same as JAMB questions?

While Post-UTME questions often cover similar topics as JAMB, they may be more concise, with fewer questions (30–100) and a shorter time limit. Some institutions include unique elements like current affairs or essay questions.

Can I pass Post-UTME by studying past questions alone?

Past questions are a powerful tool but should be complemented with syllabus-based study and textbooks. Understanding concepts and practicing time management are equally important.

Do all universities use CBT for Post-UTME?

No, while most federal universities use CBT, some state universities and polytechnics use paper-based exams or combine written tests with interviews. Confirm your institution’s format.

How can I find the subject combination for my course?

Check your institution’s website, consult current students, or review past Post-UTME questions for your course. The JAMB brochure also lists subject combinations for various courses.

Are there essay questions in Post-UTME?

Some universities, particularly for arts or law courses, include essay questions to test writing and analytical skills. However, MCQs are more common across institutions.

How much time is given for Post-UTME exams?

Time limits vary, typically ranging from 30 to 60 minutes for 50–100 questions. Practice with a timer to build speed and accuracy.