How to Prepare Effectively for Post-UTME

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News.

Every year, thousands of Nigerian students sit for the Post-UTME screening exercise after successfully passing the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). For many universities such as Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), the Post-UTME is the decisive factor that determines who eventually secures admission.

Unfortunately, many candidates underestimate this stage and end up disappointed. To stand out, you need a clear and practical strategy. In this guide, Akahi News outlines tested steps on how to prepare effectively for Post-UTME.

Understand the Nature of the Post-UTME

The first step to success is knowing what you’re preparing for. Post-UTME is usually a computer-based test (CBT) that covers:

• English Language
• Mathematics
• Relevant subjects related to your chosen course
• In some schools, general knowledge or current affairs

Akahi News gathered that universities like OAU, UI, UNILAG, and UNN maintain high standards, and their screening is designed to test both speed and accuracy.

Start with Past Questions

One of the most effective strategies is studying past Post-UTME questions. Most schools repeat question patterns, and familiarity with these will give you an edge.

According to Akahi News, students who consistently practise with real past questions tend to score higher. Beyond the questions, these materials help you understand the timeframe, difficulty level, and marking style.

Build Strong Foundations in Core Subjects

Don’t just cram – understand the basics. For example:

• Science students should focus on Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics.
• Arts students should polish Literature, Government, CRS/IRS, and English.
• Social science students need mastery of Economics, Government, Mathematics, and English.

Akahi News reports that candidates often lose marks in simple topics because they ignore fundamentals.

Develop a Time Management Strategy

Since Post-UTME exams are time-bound, practising with a stopwatch is essential. If you have 60 minutes for 100 questions, train yourself to answer each question in under one minute.

Akahi News has advised candidates to avoid getting stuck on a single question. Instead, skip difficult ones and return later.

Stay Updated with Reliable Information

Misinformation has cost many candidates their admission. Some students fall victim to fake registration portals or miss deadlines due to unreliable sources.

To avoid this, follow trusted platforms like Akahi News for:

• Registration updates
• Exam dates and venues
• Cut-off marks
• Result announcements

Create a Study Schedule

Effective preparation requires discipline. Design a timetable that allocates specific hours to each subject daily. For instance:

• Morning – English practice
• Afternoon – Core subject focus (Physics, Economics, etc.)
• Evening – Past questions and revision

According to Akahi News, breaking your study into smaller, consistent sessions is far more effective than last-minute cramming.

Avoid Common Mistakes

Akahi News identified some mistakes candidates often make:

• Registering late or on the wrong portal
• Ignoring O’Level upload on JAMB CAPS
• Focusing only on JAMB materials instead of Post-UTME-specific prep
• Poor exam day preparation (e.g., arriving late or without required documents)

Practical Exam Day Tips

To perform at your best:

1. Get enough rest the night before.
2. Eat light but energising meals.
3. Arrive early at the venue to avoid stress.
4. Carry all required documents, including your Post-UTME slip, JAMB result, and valid ID.
5. Stay calm, read instructions carefully, and manage your time.

For detailed guidance, candidates can always check Akahi News.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for Post-UTME goes beyond intelligence—it requires strategy, discipline, and access to the right information. If you practise past questions, manage time wisely, and stay updated via Akahi News, you stand a very high chance of securing admission into your dream university.

Always remember: admission is not just about scoring high in JAMB; it is about crossing every stage successfully, and the Post-UTME is one of the most critical steps.

For more updates on OAU Post-UTME, eligibility, cut-off marks, and admission news, keep following Akahi News.

Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org