University of Benin Postgraduate Admission Form – Every academic year comes with new opportunities, and for graduates who wish to take their education to the next level, the University of Benin (UNIBEN) is once again opening its gates. The School of Postgraduate Studies at UNIBEN has officially announced the sale of postgraduate admission forms for the 2025/2026 academic session.
This means that thousands of graduates across Nigeria and beyond now have the chance to enroll in advanced programs, ranging from Postgraduate Diplomas (PGD) to Master’s degrees, Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.).
If you have been considering postgraduate studies at UNIBEN, this is your moment. In this detailed guide, you’ll learn everything about the application process, eligibility criteria, fees, deadlines, and tips for ensuring a smooth admission journey.
Why Postgraduate Studies at UNIBEN?
The University of Benin is one of Nigeria’s leading higher institutions, with a strong reputation for academic excellence and research. Its postgraduate school offers an environment where intellectual curiosity meets practical application.
From engineering to law, education to medicine, social sciences to management, UNIBEN provides a diverse range of programs tailored to career advancement and knowledge building. Pursuing postgraduate studies here is not just about earning a certificate.
It is about becoming part of a network of innovators, researchers, and professionals who are shaping the future of Nigeria and beyond.
Application Timeline and Fees
The postgraduate admission form for 2025/2026 is currently available online at the cost of ₦22,000 (twenty-two thousand naira only). Payments must be made using either MasterCard or VERVE ATM cards through the official UNIBEN postgraduate application portal.
The deadline for submission of applications is 30th November 2025. Importantly, UNIBEN has made it clear that there will be no extension, so applicants must complete all processes before the cut-off date.
General Admission Requirements
UNIBEN is known for maintaining high academic standards, and the postgraduate admission process is no exception. The school has set clear entry requirements to ensure that only qualified candidates gain admission. Here’s what you must have:
-
Basic O’Level Requirement
- At least five credit passes in WASC, NECO, GCE, or an equivalent examination.
- Acceptable combinations include OND, NCE, IJMB, or A-level results in relevant subjects.
-
First Degree Requirements
- Pass degrees are not accepted.
- Third-class graduates are only considered if they first complete a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD).
- For direct Master’s degree admission, candidates must have at least a Second Class Lower Division (2:2) or higher.
- M.Phil. applicants must have a Weighted Average Score between 55% and 59%.
- Ph.D. aspirants must have scored at least 60% in their Master’s program.
Note: Candidates from other universities may be asked to take some compulsory courses to align with UNIBEN’s academic standards.
-
National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Requirement
- A valid NYSC discharge, exemption, or exclusion certificate is mandatory for clearance. Without one, your admission cannot be processed.
The Role of Referees
Postgraduate admissions at UNIBEN are not based solely on personal qualifications. Each applicant is required to submit referee reports.
- Referees are usually lecturers, employers, or mentors who can vouch for your academic ability, work ethic, and character.
- The referee form is generated online during the application process and must be completed and returned directly to the School of Postgraduate Studies.
- Without referee reports, the application will not be processed.
This step emphasizes that postgraduate study is not just about grades, it is also about your potential as a researcher, leader, or professional.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Here’s how to successfully apply for UNIBEN postgraduate admission:
- Visit the Official Portal
- Create an Account
- Use a valid email address and phone number to create your application profile.
- Payment of Application Fee
- Pay ₦22,000 online using a MasterCard or VERVE card.
- Fill Out the Application Form
- Carefully provide your personal information, academic background, and choice of program.
- Avoid errors, as incomplete or wrongly filled forms will be rejected.
- Print Out Application & Referee Forms
- Once done, print copies of the completed form and the referee forms.
- Referee Submission
- Share the referee forms with your chosen referees. They must fill and return directly to the postgraduate school.
- Submit Before Deadline
- Ensure everything is completed and submitted before 30th November 2025.
What Next?
For candidates who are offered admission, the next step is the acceptance process.
- Payment of a ₦60,000 non-refundable acceptance fee is required.
- No clearance will be done without this payment.
- After payment, candidates proceed with documentation, course registration, and preparation for resumption.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Don’t wait until the last week to begin. Late applications often lead to mistakes.
- Prepare Documents Ahead: Gather transcripts, NYSC certificates, and O’Level results in advance.
- Choose Referees Wisely: Select people who know your academic or professional capabilities.
- Check Your Entries Twice: Spelling errors or wrong details can lead to rejection.
- Stay Updated: Follow official UNIBEN announcements and avoid rumors or third-party claims.
Common Mistakes Applicants Make
- Waiting until the deadline before starting the application.
- Submitting incomplete referee forms.
- Using unofficial websites to pay the application fee.
- Applying for programs without meeting the eligibility criteria.
- Ignoring NYSC requirements.
By avoiding these mistakes, you significantly increase your chances of a smooth admission process.
Life as a Postgraduate Student at UNIBEN
Once admitted, students quickly realize that postgraduate studies are on another level compared to undergraduate programs. You’ll spend more time on research, critical analysis, and specialized knowledge building.
The postgraduate community at UNIBEN is diverse, filled with students from different backgrounds and professionals who are eager to advance in their fields. The experience is demanding but rewarding, preparing graduates for leadership roles in academia, industry, and public service.
Conclusion
The University of Benin Postgraduate Admission Form for 2025/2026 presents a golden opportunity for those ready to advance their education. With clear guidelines, firm deadlines, and transparent requirements, UNIBEN ensures that only the best candidates make it through.
If you are serious about pursuing a postgraduate diploma, master’s, M.Phil, or Ph.D. program, this is the time to act. Complete your application early, follow all instructions, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
Postgraduate studies are not just about higher qualifications, they are about personal growth, research impact, and career advancement. UNIBEN has provided the platform; the next move is yours.
