Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has released the official list of the most preferred universities in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination applications.
According to figures presented during the ongoing JAMB policy meeting in Abuja, Lagos State University emerged as the top choice among candidates nationwide, overtaking several long-established favourites.
LASU recorded a total of 84,426 first-choice applications, representing 3.76 per cent of all applications submitted by candidates across Nigeria.
University of Lagos followed closely behind with 78,240 applications, maintaining its strong reputation as one of Nigeria’s most competitive universities.
Obafemi Awolowo University ranked third with 60,370 applications, while University of Ibadan secured fourth position with 58,895 applications.
Full List of 2026 JAMB Most Preferred Universities
- Lagos State University — 84,426
- University of Lagos — 78,240
- Obafemi Awolowo University — 60,370
- University of Ibadan — 58,895
- University of Benin — 55,425
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University — 54,085
- University of Ilorin — 52,514
- University of Nigeria — 51,660
- Federal University Oye-Ekiti — 48,272
- University of Port Harcourt — 48,199
Changing Admission Trends Among Candidates
The latest figures show major shifts in university preference among Nigerian students.
LASU’s rise to the top marks a significant change from previous admission cycles, where the institution was absent from the top rankings.
Meanwhile, universities such as UNILAG, UNILORIN, OAU, UI and FUOYE have continued to maintain strong popularity among candidates over the years.
Education analysts say the rankings reflect changing perceptions about academic quality, affordability, location, infrastructure, and graduate opportunities.
JAMB Policy Meeting Continues in Abuja
The statistics were unveiled during JAMB’s annual policy meeting attended by vice-chancellors, rectors, provosts, and education stakeholders from across Nigeria.
The meeting is expected to determine admission guidelines, cut-off marks, and policies for the 2026 admission exercise into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
The 2026 JAMB most preferred university rankings highlight changing trends in Nigeria’s higher education sector as students continue to prioritise institutions with strong academic reputations and competitive learning environments.
With LASU now leading the chart, competition for admission into top universities is expected to become even tougher in the coming months.
