EBSU Pre-Degree Application Form – Not every student gets admitted into their dream university straight after writing JAMB or WAEC. Sometimes, you need a second chance to prove yourself. That’s where the Pre-Degree Programme comes in. That’s where a Pre-Degree Programme comes in, a second chance to prove yourself and secure that admission.
A pre-degree programme is a specially designed one-year academic course that helps students prepare for full university life. You can think of it as a “foundation year” a stepping stone that bridges the gap between secondary school and 100-level in the university.
It’s ideal for students who:
- Didn’t meet the required cut-off mark
- Didn’t pass all their subjects in WAEC/NECO
- Want to strengthen their academic background before jumping into university
Most major universities in Nigeria offer pre-degree programmes, including EBSU, UNN, OAU, UNILAG, FUTA, ABU, UNIBEN, FUNAI, and many others.
But before you can benefit from this opportunity, you need to apply properly. That’s why this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Pre-Degree Application Form, how it works, who’s eligible, the cost, what to expect, and how to prepare.
Why Should You Consider a Pre-Degree Programme?
Before we dive into the application process, let’s take a moment to talk about why a pre-degree programme might be the right move for you.
- It Gives You a Second Chance at Admission: Maybe your JAMB score wasn’t high enough, or your WAEC results weren’t complete, don’t worry, you’re not alone. A pre-degree programme like EBSU’s gives you another opportunity to prove yourself. You’ll take classes in key subjects related to your course, sit for internal exams, and if you perform well, you’ll be offered admission into 100 level without any stress.
- It Helps You Prepare for University Life: Some students struggle in their first year because they weren’t properly prepared. The EBSU pre-degree helps you adapt to the university style of learning, which is very different from secondary school.
- It Makes 100-Level Easier: Here’s a bonus most people don’t talk about: a lot of what you’ll learn during your pre-degree is repeated in 100 level. That means when you eventually get admitted, you’re already ahead of the game. You’ll understand the lectures better, and that reduces the pressure of your first year.
- It Helps You Understand Your Course Better: Some students don’t even understand what their chosen course is all about. Pre-degree helps clarify that and allows you to switch to a better-suited course before it’s too late.
Eligibility Criteria
Different universities may have slightly different eligibility rules, but here’s the general requirement:
- You must have at least 5 O’Level credits in relevant subjects (can include English and Mathematics).
- The credits can be from WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, or a combination.
- Some universities allow candidates to apply with awaiting results, as long as they will be complete before the main admission season.
Note: You don’t need to write JAMB before applying for a pre-degree programme. However, you’ll still need to register for JAMB eventually if you want to transition into 100-level.
How to Apply for a Pre-Degree Programme (Step-by-Step Guide)
A simple break down of the Pre-Degree Application Form process using a general guide (we’ll use examples from popular universities too):
Step 1: Choose Your Preferred University
This sounds obvious, but it’s important. Not all universities offer pre-degree programmes. Do some research to find schools that offer it in your desired course.
Popular universities with pre-degree include:
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ikwo (AE-FUNAI)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Ladoke Akintola University (LAUTECH)
- Ebonyi State University (
Each of these schools has its own pre-degree portal and specific requirements.
Step 2: Visit the School’s Pre-Degree Portal
Each university has a unique website or portal where you can fill out the pre-degree application form. For example:
- OAU: https://oaucdl.edu.ng
- FUNAI: https://funai.edu.ng
- UNN: https://unn.edu.ng
- EBSU: https://www.ebsu.edu.ng
Search for the “Pre-Degree Programme” or “Foundation Programme” section on the site.
Step 3: Read the Guidelines Carefully
Before clicking “Apply,” make sure you read all the instructions. Understand:
- Application deadline
- Entry requirements
- Subject combinations for your intended course
- How the admission is processed (Merit? Quota?)
Step 4: Create a Profile
You’ll need to provide your:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Email address
- Phone number
- O’Level result details
- Preferred course
Some universities might also ask for a scanned passport photo and digital signature.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
Most pre-degree forms cost between ₦10,000 and ₦25,000, depending on the school.
Payment is usually online via:
- Debit card (MasterCard/Verve)
- Remita
- Interswitch
- Bank deposit (for some universities)
After payment, make sure to print your application slip and payment receipt.
Step 6: Submit and Print
Once everything is filled out and paid for, submit the application and print out the acknowledgment slip or admission form. Keep this safe as you may need it for screening.
What Happens Next After Applying?
- Admission Screening or Test: Some universities (Including EBSU) conduct entrance exams or interviews before admitting students into the pre-degree programme.
Typical subjects tested include:
- English
- Mathematics
- Subject related to your course (e.g., Physics for Engineering)
- Admission List Release: After the screening, successful candidates are listed on the school’s pre-degree portal. You’ll also get a message (SMS or email) if you’re admitted.
- Acceptance and Registration: Once admitted, you’ll need to:
- Accept the offer
- Pay acceptance fees
- Resume for classes
- Register officially at the school
Duration and Structure of Pre-Degree Programme
The pre-degree usually lasts 9 to 12 months and is broken into two semesters like a typical university session.
Courses You’ll Take
Courses are divided into streams, depending on your chosen course:
- Science Stream: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Maths, English
- Arts Stream: Government, Literature, CRS, English, Economics
- Commercial Stream: Accounting, Commerce, Economics, Maths, English
The idea is to mimic what you’ll eventually study in 100 level.
How Do You Transition from Pre-Degree to 100 Level?
So, you’ve completed your pre-degree programme, what happens next? How do you officially get into 100 level?
Here’s how the transition works:
- You Still Need to Register for JAMB: Even though you’re in the pre-degree programme, you’re still required to sit for JAMB during that same year. The good news? Your pre-degree classes at EBSU will help you prepare better for it.
- You Must Pass Internal Pre-Degree Exams: Apart from JAMB, you’ll write internal exams as part of your pre-degree assessment. Most universities expect you to score at least 50% to 60% (or meet a minimum CGPA) to qualify for admission.
- You’ll be Admitted into 100 Level: If you meet the required performance in both JAMB and your pre-degree exams, you’ll be offered admission into 100 level in your chosen course.
However, if you fall slightly below the cut-off for your preferred course, some schools may offer you admission into a related course where your scores meet the requirements.
Final Thoughts
If you didn’t meet the admission requirements or you just feel like you need more time to prepare, a pre-degree programme could be the fresh start you need. It gives you a second chance. It helps you build confidence and academic strength.
It boosts your chances of getting into your desired course, but here’s the thing, don’t treat it like a shortcut. It’s not a free pass into university. You still have to show up, study hard, pass your internal exams, and do well in JAMB.
And no, it’s not a sign of failure. So many students who started with a pre-degree have gone on to become doctors, engineers, lawyers, and CEOs. What matters isn’t how you started, but where you’re headed.