JAMB 2026 Data Reveals Top 10 Most Preferred Nigerian Universities
As registration for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for the 2026 admission cycle commences, fresh data from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has unveiled the ten most sought-after universities in Nigeria. The comprehensive analysis, drawn from policy documents for the 2025 admission cycle, provides crucial insights into institutional preferences among prospective students nationwide.
Dominance of Federal and First-Generation Institutions
The ranking clearly demonstrates that federal universities and first-generation institutions continue to dominate applicant preferences across Nigeria. This trend reflects students' persistent prioritization of established universities renowned for their academic prestige, institutional stability, and the special consideration their graduates receive within the competitive Nigerian labor market. The data reveals that reputation, consistent academic calendars, and diverse programme offerings remain key factors influencing student choices.
Detailed Breakdown of Top Ten Universities
Below is an expanded numbered list of the ten universities attracting the highest volume of first-choice applicants, complete with detailed explanations of their enduring appeal to Nigerian students.
- Lagos State University - 70,080 applicants
Lagos State University (LASU) emerges as the most preferred institution, leading the ranking with a significant margin. Established in 1983, LASU's strategic location within Nigeria's commercial capital, Lagos, combined with its growing academic profile, makes it exceptionally attractive. The university's multiple campuses and continuously expanding range of academic programmes further boost its popularity among admission seekers. - University of Lagos - 58,645 applicants
The University of Lagos (UNILAG), founded in 1962, maintains its strong position as a premier choice. Its status as a first-generation federal university, coupled with consistent academic standards and its vibrant urban setting in Lagos, sustains its enduring popularity across multiple admission cycles. - University of Ilorin - 56,758 applicants
The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) is widely celebrated for its academic stability and minimal disruption to academic calendars. Established in 1975, the institution benefits from an extensive land mass and offers a broad spectrum of courses, making it a reliable and attractive option for students nationwide. - Federal University Oye Ekiti - 52,108 applicants
Federal University Oye Ekiti (FUOYE) has experienced rapid growth in appeal since its establishment. Operating from campuses in Oye Ekiti and Ikole Ekiti, this institution attracts candidates seeking modern infrastructure and expanding academic offerings in a developing educational landscape. - Nnamdi Azikiwe University - 51,487 applicants
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), located in Awka with satellite campuses across Anambra State, holds strong appeal for applicants from the South East region and beyond. Its comprehensive programme spread across various disciplines contributes significantly to its sustained demand. - University of Ibadan - 47,571 applicants
The University of Ibadan (UI), as Nigeria's oldest university, continues to command immense respect within academic circles. Its distinguished legacy in research excellence and scholarly achievement keeps it firmly among the top choices for ambitious applicants seeking quality education. - University of Nigeria Nsukka - 46,273 applicants
The University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), founded in 1955 and officially opened in 1960, holds the pioneering status of being Nigeria's first indigenous university. This rich academic heritage and historical significance remain powerfully attractive to candidates across the nation. - University of Benin - 45,868 applicants
The University of Benin (UNIBEN) has built a formidable reputation since transitioning to federal institution status in 1975. Its consistent academic performance and institutional development ensure it remains a preferred choice among admission seekers year after year. - Obafemi Awolowo University - 45,777 applicants
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), established in 1961, is renowned for its academic rigor and distinctive campus culture. It continues to represent a dream institution for numerous secondary school graduates, offering comprehensive programmes across social sciences, law, humanities, and engineering disciplines. - Federal University Lafia - 42,962 applicants
Federal University Lafia (FULafia), despite its relatively recent establishment, has gained steady traction among applicants. Its focused faculty structure and growing national visibility continue to attract candidates from across Nigeria seeking emerging educational opportunities.
JAMB Registration Guidelines for 2026 UTME
In related developments, JAMB has released comprehensive guidelines for the 2026 UTME registration process. Prospective candidates are required to possess essential documentation including a valid National Identification Number (NIN) and an active email address. The registration window for the 2026 UTME forms officially opened on Friday, January 31, 2026, and will remain accessible until Saturday, March 8, 2026, providing applicants ample time to complete their registration procedures.
This detailed analysis of institutional preferences offers valuable guidance for prospective students as they prepare for the competitive 2026 admission exercise, highlighting the universities that continue to capture the imagination and aspirations of Nigeria's youth.
