The University of Ilorin says 21,971 candidates are taking part in its 2025/2026 Post-UTME screening exercise.
The screening commenced on Thursday, August 28, and will continue until Thursday, September 4.
Figures released by the director of the University’s Computer-Based Test Centre, Prof. Kamilu Rauf, indicate that 20,220 applied through UTME while 1,751 are Direct Entry candidates.
He added that 26 underage applicants appeared on the first day, out of the 30 expected.
According to him, the numbers represent a sharp increase from last year’s 15,946 UTME and 1,175 Direct Entry candidates.
Prof. Rauf linked the increase to the University’s reputation for excellence, uninterrupted academic calendar, and efficient administration.
“Our slogan is Better by Far, and candidates know that when you come to UNILORIN, four years means four years and five years means five years without disruptions,” he said.
The CBT director urged parents not to crowd examination centres, while advising candidates to comply with dress codes and rules prohibiting mobile phones and other gadgets.
He assured that the University was fully prepared to deliver a smooth and hitch-free exercise.
Also speaking, the chairman of the admissions committee, Prof. Abdulazeez Muhammad-Lawal, described the first day of the exercise as successful.
He commended the discipline of candidates, but cautioned parents against attempting to accompany their wards into the examination venues.
Muhammad-Lawal stressed that the process required biometric verification and must remain candidate-centred.
In a related development, the University’s admission officer, Mr. Abdulkareem Sanni, has warned candidates against seeking admission through the backdoor.
Speaking on UNILORIN 89.3 FM’s programme, Table Talk, Mr. Sanni said admission into the institution was strictly merit-based.
He explained that offers would be based on a combination of O’level results, UTME scores, and Post-UTME performance.
According to him, candidates are expected to score at least 180 in UTME, obtain five O’level credits in not more than two sittings, and pass the Post-UTME screening.
“For Medicine and Surgery, Optometry and Vision Science, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Computer Engineering, the five credits must be obtained at one sitting,” he said.
He also advised candidates to be punctual, dress responsibly, and maintain decorum throughout the screening.
About 12,856 candidates secured admission into the University during the 2024/2025 academic session.