Can I change my school of choice after JAMB? Many students often ask this question. This concern arises when candidates realize that their chosen institution may not be the best fit for their course, or they wish to explore other options due to personal preferences.
Fortunately, JAMB provides a way for candidates to switch their school of choice after registering for the exam.
In this blog post, we will explain everything you need to know about changing your school of choice, the steps involved, and the key points to consider before making the change.
What Is JAMB?
JAMB, which stands for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, is a Nigerian organization responsible for conducting entrance examinations for candidates seeking admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
Each year, students register for the JAMB exam to qualify for admission into their preferred institutions.
When registering for the exam, candidates are required to select their school of choice, which could be a university, polytechnic, or college of education.
Why Would You Want to Change Your School of Choice?
There are many reasons why candidates might want to change their school of choice after JAMB registration. Some of these reasons include:
1. Not Meeting the Cut-Off Mark:
If you did not score high enough to meet the cut-off mark of your first-choice institution, you may want to consider switching to a school with a lower cut-off mark.
2. Availability of Courses:
Sometimes, students realize that their preferred course is not offered by their initial choice of school, prompting them to change their selection.
3. Location Preferences:
Candidates may choose to attend a school closer to their home or in a different city, depending on personal circumstances.
4. Admission Requirements:
Different schools have different admission criteria. If a candidate meets the requirements of another institution better, they might decide to change to that school.
5. Financial Considerations:
Some institutions have higher tuition fees, and students may want to opt for more affordable options.
Can I Change My School of Choice After JAMB?
Yes, it is possible to change your school of choice after JAMB. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board allows candidates to change their institution or course if they need to.
This is done through the JAMB Change of Institution/Course process, which is usually open for a period after the examination results are released. Candidates who wish to make changes must do so during this period.
How to Change Your School of Choice After JAMB
If you have decided to change your school of choice, you need to follow these simple steps:
1. Visit the JAMB Portal:
Go to the official JAMB website (https://www.jamb.gov.ng). You need to have an internet connection and a device (smartphone, tablet, or computer) to access the portal.
2. Log in to Your Profile:
Use your JAMB email and password to log in to your profile. If you do not have a JAMB profile, you will need to create one.
3. Select the ‘Correction of Data’ Option:
Once logged in, navigate to the “Correction of Data” tab on the portal. Click on it, and you will see different options, including “Change of Institution/Course.”
4. Choose ‘Change of Institution/Course’:
Select the option for changing your institution or course. Here, you can change your first, second, or third-choice institution, as well as change your selected course.
5. Make the Necessary Changes:
Follow the instructions to make changes to your school of choice. Make sure to double-check all information before submitting, as mistakes might not be reversible.
6. Pay the Required Fee:
JAMB usually charges a fee for the Change of Institution/Course service. You can pay online using your debit card or via other payment methods provided on the portal.
7. Submit and Print Your Slip:
After completing the process, make sure to print the change of institution slip. This slip will serve as proof that you have successfully changed your school of choice.
Things to Consider Before Changing Your School of Choice
Before making the decision to change your school of choice, there are some important things to keep in mind:
1. Check the Admission Requirements:
Make sure the new school you are switching to has admission requirements that you can meet.
Each institution has its criteria, including specific subject combinations and grades.
2. Know the Cut-Off Mark:
Be sure you are aware of the new school’s cut-off mark for your desired course. Changing to a school with a lower cut-off mark might increase your chances of admission.
3. Course Availability:
Verify that the new institution offers the course you want to study. Changing your school of choice without confirming course availability can lead to disappointment.
4. Location and Financial Factors:
Think about how changing to a different school might affect your living arrangements, transportation, and overall expenses.
Ensure the new school is within your budget and accessible.
5. Timing of the Change:
The JAMB Change of Institution/Course process is only open for a limited time.
Be sure to act quickly and within the timeframe provided by JAMB. Delaying the change could mean missing out on your desired school.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Below are some of the frequently asked questions and answers regarding whether it’s possible for one to change their school of choice after JAMB.
1. How many times can I change my school of choice?
You can change your school of choice more than once, but each change comes with a fee.
Be sure to confirm the number of changes allowed during the application period.
2. Can I change both my school and course at the same time?
Yes, the JAMB Change of Institution/Course service allows you to change both your school of choice and your selected course at the same time if needed.
3. Do I need to take the JAMB exam again if I change my school of choice?
No, you do not need to take the JAMB exam again. The change of institution is simply a data correction process and does not require you to sit for another exam.
4. How much does it cost to change my school of choice?
The cost of changing your school of choice may vary, but JAMB typically charges a fee for this service.
The fee is non-refundable, so be sure of your decision before proceeding.
5. What should I do if I encounter issues while changing my school of choice?
If you have any problems while trying to change your school of choice, you can contact JAMB support or visit a JAMB-accredited center for assistance.
Conclusion
Changing your school of choice after JAMB is a straightforward process that offers candidates flexibility in selecting the best institution for their education.
If you feel the need to switch to a different school, follow the steps outlined in this guide, and make sure to consider all the factors before making a final decision.
Remember to check the JAMB portal regularly for updates on when the change of institution process is available, and act promptly to avoid missing out on the opportunity.
Whether you are looking for a school with lower tuition fees, closer to home, or with better courses, the option to change your school of choice can help you find a better fit for your educational journey.