21,971 Candidates Apply for 13,000 UNILORIN Admission Slots

The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Kwara State, has received 21,971 applications for its 2025/2026 Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) screening exercise, despite having just 13,000 admission slots.

The Director of the Computer-Based Test Centre, Mr. Kamilu Rauf, disclosed this on Monday, noting that the applications comprised 20,220 UTME candidates and 1,751 direct entry candidates. The screening exercise began on August 28 and will run until September 4.

Mr. Rauf explained that the figure represents a significant increase from the 2024/2025 session, which recorded 15,946 UTME and 1,175 direct entry candidates. He added that 12,856 candidates were admitted last year.

“This year, we recorded an additional 4,200 UTME candidates and 576 direct entry applicants. This shows that more students are making the University of Ilorin their first-choice institution,” he said.

He attributed the surge to UNILORIN’s reputation for academic excellence, stable academic calendar, and efficient administration.

“Our slogan is ‘Better by Far.’ Candidates know that when they come to UNILORIN, four years means four years, and five years means five years, without disruptions,” Mr. Rauf added.

He reminded candidates and their parents to strictly observe examination guidelines, including dress codes and the prohibition of mobile phones and other gadgets in the hall. He also advised parents to avoid crowding venues, stressing that all necessary information is available on the university’s official website.

Mr. Rauf assured applicants that the university was fully prepared to conduct a smooth and transparent screening exercise.