Top Universities in Nigeria That Accept D7, E8, or F9 in Mathematics

For many Nigerian students, one of the biggest challenges in secondary school and O’level examinations (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB) is Mathematics. While subjects like English, Government, CRS, or Literature may seem easier, Mathematics often becomes a stumbling block. Each year, thousands of students score D7, E8, or even F9 in Mathematics, leading to frustration and fear about whether they can still gain admission into a university.

The good news is this: you can still gain admission into Nigerian universities even if you failed Mathematics or scored low (D7, E8, or F9). Many universities and specific courses do not require a credit pass in Mathematics. These schools recognize that not every discipline depends on mathematical ability.

This article will serve as your complete 2025 guide to:

• Why some universities accept D7, E8, or F9 in Mathematics

• Full list of universities in Nigeria that admit students without credit in Mathematics

• Courses you can study without Mathematics

• Admission requirements and steps to follow

• Comparison between universities with strict and flexible Mathematics policies

• Benefits and challenges of pursuing admission without Mathematics credit

• Frequently asked questions to clear every doubt

By the end of this article, you will understand how to strategically plan your university admission in 2025 without worrying about Mathematics credit pass.

Why Do Some Universities Accept D7, E8, or F9 in Mathematics?

1. Course Relevance

Not all courses depend on Mathematics. For example:

• Arts and Humanities courses (e.g., English, History, Philosophy) rely more on language and critical thinking.

• Some Education courses focus on teaching arts or social sciences.

• Law, Religious Studies, and Theatre Arts prioritize literacy and reasoning over numeric ability.

2. JAMB and University Flexibility

JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) recognizes that candidates with weak Mathematics may still excel in courses that don’t need heavy calculations. Many universities follow this guideline.

3. Inclusion and Access to Education

Universities aim to ensure that thousands of students are not denied admission simply because of a single subject. By offering alternatives, they expand access to higher education.

Admission Grades in WAEC/NECO and What They Mean

Before diving into the list of universities, let’s clarify grading:

• A1 – C6: Credit pass (standard requirement for competitive courses).

• D7: Pass (not credit, but still considered by some universities).

• E8: Weak pass (lowest passing grade but may still be accepted).

• F9: Fail (normally not accepted, but for some courses it may not matter if Mathematics is not compulsory).

Understanding this helps you know where you stand and what options remain open.

List of Top Universities in Nigeria That Accept D7, E8, or F9 in Mathematics

Here is a categorized breakdown:

1. Federal Universities

Many federal universities allow students to gain admission without Mathematics for non-science and non-commercial courses. Examples include:

• University of Lagos (UNILAG) – accepts D7 in Mathematics for courses in Arts and Humanities.

• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) – allows Arts-based students with weak Mathematics grades.

• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria) – flexible for Religious Studies, History, and Languages.

• University of Benin (UNIBEN) – accepts lower Mathematics grades for Education and Arts courses.

• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) – Arts students can apply with D7 or E8 in Mathematics.

2. State Universities

State-owned universities are often more flexible and student-friendly. Examples:

• Lagos State University (LASU) – accepts candidates with weak Mathematics for Arts and Law-related courses.

• Delta State University (DELSU) – allows Arts and Social Sciences students with D7 or E8.

• Imo State University (IMSU) – accepts Arts candidates without Mathematics credit.

• Kwara State University (KWASU) – some Education and Arts programs do not require credit pass in Mathematics.

• Osun State University (UNIOSUN) – flexible for Arts and Social Science majors.

3. Private Universities

Private universities are generally more open to students with weak Mathematics results, as long as they meet other requirements. Examples:

• Babcock University – accepts Arts-based students with D7/E8 in Mathematics.

• Covenant University – flexible in non-science courses.

• Bowen University – allows admission without credit Mathematics for Arts courses.

• Lead City University – known for admitting candidates with weak Mathematics in some programs.

• Caleb University – accepts passes in Mathematics for certain Arts and Education courses.

Courses You Can Study Without Mathematics in Nigerian Universities

Here are the main areas where Mathematics credit is not compulsory:

1. Arts Courses

• English and Literary Studies

• History and International Studies

• Philosophy

• Theatre Arts

• Linguistics

• Religious Studies

2. Law and Related Courses

• Law

• Islamic Law

• Common and Civil Law

3. Education Courses

• Education and English

• Education and CRS/IRS

• Education and History

• Education and Yoruba/Igbo/Hausa

• Guidance and Counseling

4. Social Sciences (Limited)

Some social sciences allow D7/E8 in Mathematics if you excel in other subjects:

• Sociology

• Psychology

• Political Science

Admission Requirements Without Mathematics Credit

Even if a university accepts D7, E8, or F9 in Mathematics, you must still meet the following:

1. Five O’level Credits: English Language must be a credit pass.

2. JAMB UTME: Score above your chosen university’s cut-off.

3. Correct Subject Combination: Select JAMB subjects that align with your course.

4. Post-UTME/Screening: Perform well to secure admission.

5. Other Core Subjects: For Arts, strong passes in Literature, CRS/IRS, and Government may cover for weak Mathematics.

NABTEB, WAEC, and NECO: Which Exam Boards Are Accepted?

• WAEC and NECO – widely accepted.

• NABTEB – also recognized, though some universities may require confirmation.
  All three examination boards allow students with weak Mathematics grades to pursue Arts and related fields.

Benefits of Choosing a University That Accepts D7, E8, or F9 in Mathematics

• Wider access to higher education – students are not stranded.

• Opportunity to pursue your passion – especially in arts and law.

• Reduced academic pressure – focus on your strong subjects.

• Second chance – some students later improve their Mathematics in remedial or pre-degree programs.

Challenges of Admission Without Mathematics Credit

• Limited course options – no Medicine, Engineering, Accounting, or Sciences.

• Reduced international recognition – some foreign schools demand credit Mathematics.

• Fewer professional paths – careers in science, finance, and technology are not possible.

Step-by-Step Guide to Gaining Admission Without Mathematics

1. Check your O’level result – confirm grades in English, Literature, CRS, and other relevant subjects.

2. Research courses that fit your strengths – focus on Arts, Law, and Education.

3. Choose universities with flexible admission policies – federal, state, or private.

4. Register and prepare for JAMB UTME – aim for high scores to stand out.

5. Apply for Post-UTME – meet deadlines and follow university instructions.

6. Confirm on JAMB CAPS – accept your admission when offered.

7. Complete registration – pay acceptance fees and resume academic activities.

Common Mistakes Students Make

• Believing all universities reject weak Mathematics.

• Applying for courses like Medicine, Engineering, or Accounting without credit in Mathematics.

• Ignoring JAMB subject combinations.

• Relying on hearsay instead of official university admission policies.

• Missing JAMB and Post-UTME deadlines.

Summary Table: Top Universities in Nigeria That Accept D7, E8, or F9 in Mathematics

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I study Law with D7 in Mathematics?
Yes, many universities accept Law candidates with weak Mathematics results, as long as English and other Arts subjects are strong.

2. Can I gain admission into UNILAG with E8 in Mathematics?
Yes, but only for Arts and Humanities courses. Competitive Science and Commercial courses still require credit Mathematics.

3. Is F9 in Mathematics acceptable for admission?
Some universities allow F9, but usually only for non-science courses.

4. Can I study Political Science without Mathematics?
Yes, some universities accept D7 or E8 for Political Science, but confirm requirements before applying.

5. Does JAMB allow students with weak Mathematics to register?
Yes, JAMB allows it as long as you have five other relevant credits.

6. Can I combine WAEC and NECO to cover Mathematics?
Yes, you can combine results. For example, D7 in WAEC plus C6 in NECO.

7. Do private universities accept D7/E8 in Mathematics?
Yes, many private universities are flexible for Arts and Education courses.

8. Can I study Education courses without Mathematics?
Yes, especially Education in English, CRS, and related fields.

9. Can I go for NYSC with D7 in Mathematics?
Yes, once you are admitted and graduate, NYSC accepts all valid admissions.

10. Should I still rewrite Mathematics?
If possible, yes. Rewriting improves your career opportunities and broadens course options.

Conclusion

Mathematics failure is not the end of your academic journey. With D7, E8, or even F9 in Mathematics, you can still gain admission into top Nigerian universities, especially for courses in Arts, Education, Law, and Humanities.

The key is to understand which universities accept weak Mathematics grades and choose the right course that does not rely on calculations. Whether federal, state, or private, there are schools ready to admit you.

Final Advice: Do not give up because of Mathematics. Focus on your strengths, explore the universities listed in this guide, and take bold steps toward your academic future.