For Nigerian students navigating the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS), understanding the various admission statuses is crucial. Two of the most frequently misunderstood statuses are “Admission in Progress” and “Admission is Being Processed.”
Many candidates mistakenly think they are the same, but each has a distinct meaning and implication for your chances of gaining admission into a Nigerian university, polytechnic, or college of education.
This comprehensive guide explains the differences, similarities, timelines, implications, and steps students should take to manage their admission status effectively.
Understanding JAMB CAPS and Its Role in Nigerian Admissions
Before diving into the differences, it is essential to understand what JAMB CAPS is and why it matters:
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JAMB CAPS is the official platform that monitors and processes all admission recommendations for Nigerian tertiary institutions.
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It ensures transparency, fairness, and compliance with admission quotas and guidelines.
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CAPS displays admission status for each candidate, including “Not Admitted,” “Admission in Progress,” “Admission is Being Processed,” and “Admitted.”
Knowing the meaning of these statuses allows students to track their progress and take necessary actions when needed.
What “Admission in Progress” Means on JAMB CAPS
Admission in Progress is one of the most optimistic statuses a candidate can have. It signifies that:
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Your institution has recommended you for admission.
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JAMB is verifying your UTME scores, O’level results, and eligibility.
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Your admission is provisional, not final.
Key Points:
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Provisional Status: You are on the school’s recommendation list, but final approval depends on JAMB verification.
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High Likelihood of Admission: Most candidates with this status eventually get admitted.
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Potential for Reversal: Rarely, your status may revert to Not Admitted if discrepancies are found.
What “Admission is Being Processed” Means on JAMB CAPS
Admission is Being Processed is often a source of confusion because it seems similar to “Admission in Progress.”
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This status indicates that the school has forwarded your recommendation to JAMB, and JAMB is reviewing it.
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It usually appears before Admission in Progress, marking the first stage of the verification process.
Key Points:
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Initial Stage of Verification: Your admission documents and results are under review.
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Not a Guarantee: Being processed does not imply a recommendation by the school yet.
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Pre-Admittance Stage: If everything checks out, your status may change to Admission in Progress and eventually Admitted.
Key Differences Between the Two Statuses
| Feature | Admission in Progress | Admission is Being Processed |
|---|---|---|
| Stage in Admission | Post-school recommendation | Initial JAMB verification stage |
| Guarantee of Admission | High likelihood but not 100% | Not guaranteed; still under review |
| Reversal Potential | Possible but rare | Can revert to Not Admitted if errors occur |
| Implication for Candidate | Encouraging; indicates school support | Neutral; candidate is still being considered |
| Action Required | Verify results and await final admission | Monitor status; ensure all documents are accurate |
Similarities Between Admission in Progress and Admission is Being Processed
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Both are Provisional Statuses
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Neither status guarantees final admission.
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Require Monitoring by Candidates
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Students should frequently check CAPS to stay updated.
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Dependent on Verification
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Both statuses are influenced by document verification and quota availability.
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How JAMB CAPS Processes Admission Statuses
Understanding how JAMB processes admission helps explain why these statuses exist:
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School Recommendation
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The institution uploads recommended candidates to JAMB CAPS.
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Initial Verification
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JAMB reviews O’level results, UTME scores, and other eligibility criteria.
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Status Update
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If verification passes, the status moves from Admission is Being Processed → Admission in Progress.
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Final Approval
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JAMB approves the admission and the candidate is marked Admitted.
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Exception Cases
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Errors, quota issues, or incorrect results can cause status reversal.
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Timeline for Status Changes on CAPS
| Status | Expected Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Admission is Being Processed | 1–3 days | Depends on batch processing by school and JAMB |
| Admission in Progress | 3–14 days | Most candidates move to Admitted within 1–2 weeks |
| Admitted | Final | No further action required |
Factors Influencing Status Changes
Verification of O’level Results
Incomplete or incorrect O’level results can delay or reverse statuses.
UTME and Post-UTME Scores
Discrepancies between your UTME, Post-UTME, or school assessment can affect CAPS status.
Quota Limitations
Each course has a limited number of available slots. Over-enrollment can lead to status adjustments.
Institutional Withdrawal
Schools may withdraw recommendations if administrative errors are detected.
Steps to Safeguard Your Admission Status
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Verify Your O’level Results
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Ensure WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB results are correctly uploaded on JAMB.
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Check Personal Information
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Confirm that names, date of birth, and UTME subject combinations are accurate.
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Follow Up With Your Institution
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Regularly contact your school to ensure your recommendation remains valid.
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Avoid Third-Party Agents
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Only JAMB and the admitting institution control admission.
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Monitor CAPS Frequently
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Immediate action can be taken if errors are detected early.
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Summary Table: CAPS Status Comparison
| CAPS Status | Meaning | Stage | Guarantee | Action Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Admission is Being Processed | School forwarded recommendation; JAMB reviewing | Initial verification | Not guaranteed | Monitor, ensure documents are accurate |
| Admission in Progress | School recommended; JAMB verifying | Post-recommendation | High likelihood | Verify results, await final approval |
| Admitted | JAMB approved admission | Final stage | 100% confirmed | Accept admission |
| Not Admitted | Rejected or not recommended | No chance | 0% | Consider alternative courses or institutions |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Admission in Progress the same as Admission is Being Processed?
No, they are distinct stages. Being Processed is initial verification, while Admission in Progress indicates school recommendation with JAMB verification ongoing.
2. Can my status revert from Admission in Progress?
Yes, in rare cases due to errors, quota issues, or document discrepancies.
3. How long does it take to move from Being Processed to Admission in Progress?
Typically 1–3 days, depending on school and JAMB batch processing.
4. What does Admitted mean?
It is the final approval; your admission is officially confirmed.
5. Does Being Processed guarantee admission?
No, it is an early review stage; final approval depends on verification.
6. Can I speed up my CAPS status change?
No, only JAMB and the institution control the process. Candidates should focus on accuracy and monitoring.
7. Why does my status remain in Being Processed for weeks?
High volume of candidates, quota verification, or document checks can cause delays.
8. Should I contact my school if my status is slow?
Yes, it is advisable to ensure no errors in your recommendation or documentation.
9. Can a third-party agent help?
No, only JAMB and the admitting school manage CAPS statuses.
10. What happens if my status changes back to Not Admitted?
Verify your documents and contact the school. If errors are found, corrections may be submitted to JAMB for reconsideration.
Conclusion: Understanding CAPS Statuses is Crucial
The difference between Admission in Progress and Admission is Being Processed lies in the stage of verification and the likelihood of admission:
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Being Processed: Early review stage, neutral implication.
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Admission in Progress: School recommendation received, high likelihood, still provisional.
By monitoring CAPS, verifying results, and staying in communication with your school, candidates can maximize their chances of moving smoothly from provisional to final admission. Understanding these statuses removes confusion and helps students plan effectively for their academic future.