The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is one of Nigeria’s most prestigious federal universities, renowned for its academic excellence and competitive admission process. Each year, thousands of candidates apply for admission into UNILAG, but only a select few gain entry due to the rigorous selection criteria, including the Post Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (Post UTME). The Post UTME is a critical step in the admission process, designed to assess candidates’ readiness for their chosen courses beyond their performance in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
A key aspect of preparing for the UNILAG Post UTME is understanding the subject combination required for the screening exercise. Unlike the JAMB UTME, which allows candidates to select subjects based on their intended course of study, UNILAG’s Post UTME has a standardized subject combination for all candidates, regardless of their chosen program.
UNILAG Post UTME Subject Combination
For the UNILAG Post UTME, the university typically tests candidates on three subjects: English Language, Mathematics, and General Paper. This format applies to all candidates, irrespective of their intended course of study, whether in arts, sciences, engineering, medicine, law, or social sciences. The structure of the exam is designed to evaluate candidates’ proficiency in core academic areas and their general knowledge, ensuring they are well-rounded and capable of handling university-level coursework.
Exam Format
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English Language: 20 questions
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Mathematics: 20 questions
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General Paper: 10 questions
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Total: 50 questions
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Duration: 30 minutes
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Total Score: 100 marks
The English Language section tests candidates’ proficiency in grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and verbal reasoning. Topics may include synonyms, antonyms, idioms, sentence completion, and passage-based questions. The Mathematics section covers topics such as algebra, geometry, trigonometry, statistics, and basic arithmetic, requiring a solid understanding of secondary school mathematics. The General Paper assesses candidates’ awareness of current affairs, general knowledge, and logical reasoning, covering topics like history, geography, government, and contemporary issues in Nigeria and beyond.
This standardized subject combination ensures fairness across all faculties and departments, as it does not favor candidates from specific academic backgrounds. However, candidates must still ensure that their JAMB UTME subject combination aligns with the O’Level and departmental requirements for their chosen course, as these are verified during the admission process.
Importance of Proper Preparation
While the JAMB UTME score is a significant factor in the admission process, the UNILAG Post UTME plays a crucial role in determining final admission. The university uses a composite score for admission, calculated as follows:
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JAMB UTME: 50%
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O’Level results: 20%
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Post UTME: 30%
To be eligible for the Post UTME, candidates must:
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Score at least 200 in the JAMB UTME.
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Choose UNILAG as their first choice.
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Possess five O’Level credit passes (in one or two sittings) in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics.
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Be at least 16 years old by the time of the screening.
Proper preparation for the Post UTME involves studying past questions, mastering time management, and familiarizing oneself with the computer-based test (CBT) format, as the exam is conducted online. Candidates are also advised to participate in the mock examination offered by UNILAG to get accustomed to the testing platform.
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FAQs
Does the UNILAG Post UTME subject combination depend on my course of study?
No, the UNILAG Post UTME subject combination is the same for all candidates, regardless of their intended course. All candidates are tested on English Language, Mathematics, and General Paper. This standardized format ensures uniformity in the screening process across all faculties.
How is the General Paper different from Current Affairs?
The General Paper in the UNILAG Post UTME covers a broad range of topics, including current affairs, history, geography, government, and logical reasoning. While current affairs focus on recent events and developments, the General Paper is more comprehensive, testing general knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Can I use my JAMB subject combination to prepare for the UNILAG Post UTME?
While your JAMB subject combination is tailored to your course of study, the UNILAG Post UTME tests English Language, Mathematics, and General Paper for all candidates. Therefore, you should focus on these three areas for the Post UTME, even if they differ from your JAMB subjects. However, ensure your JAMB subjects align with your course’s departmental requirements.
How can I prepare effectively for the UNILAG Post UTME?
To prepare effectively:
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Study past UNILAG Post UTME questions to understand the question format and recurring themes.
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Practice with CBT platforms to improve speed and familiarity with the online test environment.
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Review secondary school topics in English Language and Mathematics.
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Stay updated on current affairs and general knowledge by reading newspapers and educational resources.
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Participate in the UNILAG mock examination to get accustomed to the testing platform.
What is the duration and structure of the UNILAG Post UTME?
The UNILAG Post UTME consists of 50 multiple-choice questions: 20 in English Language, 20 in Mathematics, and 10 in General Paper. The exam lasts 30 minutes, and the total score is 100 marks. Time management is critical due to the short duration.
Are calculators allowed in the UNILAG Post UTME?
No, calculators are not allowed in the UNILAG Post UTME, as it is a computer-based test. Candidates should practice solving mathematical problems manually to improve their speed and accuracy.
What happens if my JAMB subject combination is incorrect for my course?
If your JAMB subject combination does not meet the departmental requirements for your chosen course, you may need to visit a CBT center to change your course to one that aligns with your subjects. UNILAG verifies subject combinations during the admission process, and incorrect combinations may lead to disqualification.
How important is the General Paper in the Post UTME?
The General Paper, though comprising only 10 questions, is significant as it contributes to your overall score. It tests your awareness of the world and your ability to think critically, which are essential for university education. Preparing for this section can give you an edge, as it is often less emphasized by candidates.
Can I rely solely on my JAMB preparation for the Post UTME?
While JAMB preparation provides a foundation, the UNILAG Post UTME requires specific focus on English Language, Mathematics, and General Paper. The question style and time constraints differ from JAMB, so additional preparation, including practicing past questions, is essential.
