Every year, thousands of Nigerian students use the JAMB Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) to monitor their admission status. CAPS provides real-time updates so that candidates can see whether they have been admitted or not.
But one of the most common and confusing questions students ask is: “Can my JAMB CAPS status change from Not Admitted to Admission in Progress?”
This question arises because many candidates initially see Not Admitted when they log in, but later, they begin to hear stories of people whose statuses changed to Admission in Progress after some time. The uncertainty leaves candidates worried, anxious, and sometimes misinformed.
This 2025 guide provides the full explanation of whether this transition is possible, why it happens, the factors involved, and what candidates should do while waiting.
Understanding JAMB CAPS Statuses
To understand if it is possible to move from Not Admitted to Admission in Progress, you must first know the meaning of each status.
1. Not Admitted
This means:
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Your school has not yet recommended you for admission.
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JAMB has not found your name in the admission list.
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You are still in the general pool of candidates.
It does not always mean rejection. Sometimes it simply means “wait.”
2. Admission in Progress
This means:
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Your school has forwarded your name to JAMB.
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JAMB is currently verifying your details.
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You are being considered for final approval.
It is one step before “Admitted.”
3. Admitted
This means:
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JAMB has approved your admission.
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You can now accept the offer officially.
Is It Possible to Move from Not Admitted to Admission in Progress?
The simple answer is: Yes, it is possible.
Many candidates start with Not Admitted and later see Admission in Progress. This happens because admission is released in batches, and schools forward names to JAMB gradually.
So, if you see Not Admitted today, you may still see Admission in Progress tomorrow, next week, or even next month.
Why Does This Transition Happen?
There are several reasons why a candidate can move from Not Admitted to Admission in Progress:
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Batch Processing: Schools release admission lists in stages. Early candidates may see “Admitted,” while others remain “Not Admitted” until later.
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O’level Upload Delays: If your WAEC/NECO results were uploaded late, JAMB may not consider you immediately. Once corrected, your status may change.
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Quota Adjustments: Admission quotas are filled gradually based on merit, catchment area, and ELDS (Educationally Less Developed States).
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Error Correction: If an earlier issue (wrong subject combination, missing details) is resolved, your case may move forward.
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System Updates: Sometimes, JAMB’s portal refreshes after institutions upload a new batch, changing many candidates’ statuses at once.
How Long Can It Take to Move from Not Admitted to Admission in Progress?
There is no fixed timeline, but based on past trends:
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Fast Track: 1–2 weeks after institutions start uploading names.
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Average Wait: 3–6 weeks, especially for universities with high competition.
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Long Delay: Up to 2–3 months in some cases.
It all depends on your school, your course, and JAMB’s processing speed.
Does “Not Admitted” Always Mean Rejection?
Many candidates wrongly assume that Not Admitted means final rejection. This is not true.
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If admission is still ongoing, Not Admitted is just temporary.
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Only when admission is fully closed and you still see Not Admitted can you conclude that you were not given admission.
So, patience is key.
Factors That Determine If You Will Move to Admission in Progress
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UTME Score: Higher scores increase your chances of being considered.
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Post-UTME Performance: Schools rank students by performance before sending lists to JAMB.
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O’level Results: Incomplete or poor results can delay or block admission.
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Course Competitiveness: Medicine, Law, and Engineering often take longer due to stricter checks.
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School Quota: If quotas fill up quickly, you may remain Not Admitted.
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Catchment & ELDS: Federal universities apply these policies strictly, affecting transitions.
What Should You Do If You See Not Admitted?
While waiting, candidates should:
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Check CAPS regularly: Admission status can change anytime.
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Verify O’level uploads: Visit a JAMB CBT center to confirm correctness.
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Follow school updates: Institutions often announce when lists are sent to JAMB.
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Stay patient: Admission processing can take months.
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Avoid scammers: Nobody can force JAMB to change your status.
Difference Between Moving to Admission in Progress and Directly to Admitted
Not all candidates will pass through “Admission in Progress.”
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Some move directly from Not Admitted → Admitted.
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Others pass through Not Admitted → Admission in Progress → Admitted.
Both paths are normal.
Pros and Cons of Moving from Not Admitted to Admission in Progress
✅ Pros
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Shows your name has been forwarded by your school.
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Increases your chances of final admission.
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Gives hope to candidates who were initially worried.
❌ Cons
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It is not 100% guaranteed.
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Waiting time can cause stress.
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You may still end up Not Admitted.
Summary Table: From Not Admitted to Admission in Progress
| Status | Meaning | Possibility of Change | Final Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Not Admitted | Candidate not yet offered admission | Can change to Admission in Progress if recommended later | Admitted or remain Not Admitted |
| Admission in Progress | Candidate recommended, awaiting JAMB approval | Usually changes to Admitted | Admitted (most times) |
| Admitted | JAMB has finalized admission | 100% confirmed | Admission secured |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can JAMB CAPS move from Not Admitted to Admission in Progress?
Yes, it is very possible once your institution forwards your details to JAMB.
2. How long does it take for the change to happen?
It may take from a few days to several weeks.
3. Does Not Admitted mean final rejection?
Not always. It only means rejection when admission is fully over.
4. Why is my CAPS still showing Not Admitted while others are admitted?
Admission is released in batches. Your turn may come later.
5. Can I skip Admission in Progress and move directly to Admitted?
Yes. Some candidates never see Admission in Progress.
6. Does Admission in Progress mean guaranteed admission?
It is a strong sign, but not 100% guaranteed.
7. What if I see Not Admitted throughout the process?
It means you were not offered admission for that year.
8. Should I keep rechecking CAPS daily?
Yes, because admission updates can change suddenly.
9. Can JAMB or my school withdraw my admission?
Yes, if errors are detected or quotas are exceeded.
10. How can I increase my chances of moving from Not Admitted to Admission in Progress?
Ensure correct O’level upload, meet cut-off marks, and choose realistic courses.
Final Thoughts: Patience and Preparation Are Key
Moving from Not Admitted to Admission in Progress on JAMB CAPS is absolutely possible. Many candidates experience this transition every year. However, it is not automatic for everyone — it depends on your school’s recommendation, JAMB’s checks, and your eligibility.
If you see Not Admitted, don’t panic. Keep checking, ensure your documents are correct, and wait for your turn. Admission is a process, and as long as schools and JAMB are still releasing lists, your status can change.
Stay hopeful, stay alert, and be ready to accept your admission once it comes.