After JAMB, each school conduct post-UTME to further screen students for admission.
Through the post-UTME, they select qualified students to be offered admission into different courses based on each candidate’s performance.
Those who score high get admitted to the competitive course and on the merit list. The rest follows.
Unlike JAMB, schools change their post-UTME method all the time, which has made it hard to conclude on what mood the exam will be written across schools.
It makes students wonder whether this exam is written using a computer or with pen and paper. The truth is that not all schools use the same method.
Some schools use Computer-Based Tests (CBT), while others still prefer the traditional Pen and Paper Test (PPT).
This guide will explain how different schools conduct their post-UTME exams and how you can know the method that your school will use.
Is post-UTME written with computer?
Yes, most schools now write their Post UTME with computers. In the past, many schools used paper and pen for the exam, but things have changed over time.
Since JAMB started using computers for the UTME exam, many schools have also started using computers for their post-UTME.
Writing the exam on a computer is faster because the results can be ready quickly. It also helps to reduce cheating since each student gets different questions.
In addition, CBT is cheaper for universities because they don’t have to print thousands of exam papers.
Schools, like the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), use computers for their post-UTME exams.
Many other schools do too! However, a few schools still use paper and pen, but this is becoming less common.
Do all schools use CBT for post-UTME?
No, not all schools use CBT. Some schools have fully adopted computers, while others still use the traditional method of pen and paper.
Some schools even combine both methods, depending on the available facilities while some don’t even conduct post-UTME.
Universities that use CBT for post-UTME
- University of Lagos (UNILAG): Fully CBT.
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU): Uses CBT.
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN): Strictly CBT.
- University of Benin (UNIBEN): CBT-based.
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK): Fully CBT.
Many other schools (not listed here) go with Computer-Based Tests for their post-UTME as well.
Universities that Use Pen and Paper (PPT)
Some state universities and polytechnics (especially smaller ones) still use pen and paper although they are very few now.
To prepare very well for your post-UTME, you must first confirm from your school’s website or admission office the method they use.
How to know if your school uses CBT or PPT
To avoid surprises on exam day, you need to know whether your university uses CBT or PPT.
There are simple ways to find out:
- Check the school’s website: Most schools announce the mode of the exam on their admission portal.
- Read the post-UTME registration instructions: During registration, the school usually states how the exam will be conducted.
- Ask previous candidates: Students who wrote the exam in the past can tell you how the exam is conducted.
- Join online student forums: Websites like Nairaland and Myschool.ng often share useful information about universities.
For example, if you are applying to UNILORIN, check forums where students discuss UNILORIN post-UTME.
You will likely know the one they use there.
How to prepare for a CBT-based post-UTME
If you are preparing for a CBT exam, you don’t just focus on reading alone; you also need to practice using a computer.
Many students fail not because they don’t know the answers but because they don’t know how to use the computer well.
Therefore, to practice effectively, you should
- Practice with CBT software: Use platforms like Pass.ng and Myschool CBT to practice.
- Improve your typing speed: Know how to use a keyboard and mouse comfortably.
- Understand the exam interface: Learn how to log in, select answers, and submit your exam properly.
- Practice how to answer questions within a short time: CBT exams are time-limited. Practice mock exams to avoid running out of time.
- Double-check your answers before submission: Most CBT platforms allow you to go back and check your answers before submitting, so, practice how to do it.
You should spend at least 1 hour daily on CBT practice, it will help you improve your speed.
How to prepare for a Pen and Paper (PPT) post-UTME
If your school uses the traditional method, you need to focus on writing speed and accuracy.
Many students fail because they run out of time or make messy corrections.
To prepare for PPT, you should:
- Use past questions: Solve past questions, it will help you understand the kind of questions the school sets.
- Learn how to write fast: Practice writing answers quickly without sacrificing neatness.
- Improve your accuracy: In PPT exams, shading the wrong option by mistake can cost you marks. Use pencils first before shading with a pen.
- Practice with a stopwatch: Time yourself during practice to get used to real exam conditions.
- Avoid too many erasures: Erasing too much can make your answer sheet look messy. Be careful when choosing answers.
For PPT, solve as many past questions as you can daily, it will help you improve and prepare very well.
Pros and cons of CBT and PPT for post-UTME
Both CBT and PPT have their advantages and disadvantages as you can see below.
| Aspect | CBT (Computer-Based Test) | PPT (Pen and Paper Test) |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Fast results. | Results take longer. |
| Fairness | Randomized questions reduce malpractice. | Cheating is easier. |
| Accessibility | Requires basic computer skills. | Good for those who don’t know computers. |
| Cost | Expensive to set up. | Cheaper to organize. |
| Reliability | Power or network failure can occur. | No risk of power failure. |
Common challenges you will face with CBT post-UTME and how to overcome them
Even though CBT is reliable, problems can happen. Here are some common issues you will likely face and how to solve them:
- System failure: If this happens, report it immediately to the supervisor. Schools usually provide extra time.
- Power outage: In this situation, stay calm. Most universities have backup generators.
- Slow typing speed: You must type fast, it’s the only way to pass your CBT post-UTME.
- Running out of time: If there is not much time, divide your time per question. Don’t spend too much time on hard questions.
- Network problems: If the network is bad, then you have to wait for the system to reconnect. Don’t panic.
What to do if you don’t know the mode of your exam
If you are not sure whether your post-UTME is CBT or PPT, you should prepare for both.
It is better to be overprepared than underprepared.
- You need to assume it is CBT because many schools are switching to computers.
- Then, practice writing on paper to improve your handwriting speed.
- Furthermore, join forums or ask students from your school.
- Call the university’s admission office if it is possible. When you call, ask them what they will use, CBT or PPT.
FAQs
Can I choose between CBT and PPT?
No. The school decides the exam mode.
Is CBT harder than PPT?
Not necessarily. The difficulty depends on the questions, not the mode.
What happens if my system fails during CBT?
The school will fix it or give you extra time. Your score won’t be affected.
Can I change my exam mode after registration?
No. Once the mode is set, it cannot be changed.
Conclusion
The mode of your post-UTME exam depends on your school. Many top schools now use CBT because it is faster and more reliable.
However, some schools still use pen and paper. Whether your exam is CBT or PPT, the key to success is preparation.
Practice with past questions, manage your time and improve your speed. The more effort you put in, the better your chances of success.