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University of Benin (UNIBEN)

UNIBEN Information

Logo
Name University of Benin
Former Name Information not available
NickName/Alias Information not available
Acronym UNIBEN
Motto “Knowledge for Service“
Founded 23rd November 1970
Type Federal University
Category Public, Research
Accreditation Fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC)
Affiliation Association of African Universities
Campus Ugbowo Campus and Ekehuan Campus
Color Royal Blue and Gold
Founder Federal Government of Nigeria
Owner Federal Government of Nigeria
Visitor Information not available
Chancellor Tor TIV, Professor James Ortese Ayatse
Vice Chancellor Prof. Lilian Salami
Population 77,000
Address University of Benin, P.M.B. 1154, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
City Ugbowo
State Edo State
Location Benin City, Edo State
Faculty Agriculture, Arts, Law, Medicine, Engineering, Education, Social Sciences, etc.
Hostel Hall 1, Hall 2, Hall 3, Hall 4, Hall 5, etc.
Tuition Fee Information not available
Alumni Babatunde Fashola, Godwin Obaseki etc.
Cut off Mark 200 (General) | 250 (Medicine/Law)
Phone Information not available
Email registrar@uniben.edu
Website https://uniben.edu/

The University of Benin, popularly known as UNIBEN, stands as a titan in the landscape of Nigerian higher education. Since its inception, it has cultivated a reputation for academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and producing graduates who become leaders in their fields. This comprehensive hub provides everything you need to know about this prestigious institution, from admission requirements to the vibrant student life that defines the Ugbowo and Ekehuan campuses.

The University of Benin is a first-generation federal university in Nigeria. It was founded in 1970 as an Institute of Technology before a change in status to a full-fledged university by the National Universities Commission (NUC) on July 1, 1971. The university’s core mission is to develop the human mind to be creative, innovative, and competent in areas of specialization, and knowledgeable in entrepreneurship. Its vision is to be a model institution in Africa, excelling in teaching, research, and public service. UNIBEN is particularly notable for its highly competitive programs in Medicine, Law, Engineering, and Pharmacy, making it one of the most sought-after universities in the country.

UNIBEN Faculties and Departments

UNIBEN’s academic structure is vast, comprising several colleges, faculties, institutes, and schools, ensuring a comprehensive range of study options.

  • College of Medical Sciences (includes Faculties of Medicine, Dentistry, and Basic Medical Sciences)
  • Faculty of Agriculture
  • Faculty of Arts
  • Faculty of Education
  • Faculty of Engineering
  • Faculty of Environmental Sciences
  • Faculty of Law
  • Faculty of Life Sciences
  • Faculty of Management Sciences
  • Faculty of Pharmacy
  • Faculty of Physical Sciences
  • Faculty of Social Sciences

Each faculty houses multiple departments dedicated to specialized fields of study.

UNIBEN Programmes

UNIBEN offers a diverse array of fully accredited programs designed to meet both national and global demands.

  • Undergraduate Programs: Over 100 undergraduate degree programs are available across its faculties.
  • Postgraduate Programs: The Postgraduate School offers a robust selection of PGD, Masters (M.Sc, M.A, M.Eng, LL.M), and Doctoral (Ph.D.) programs.
  • Diploma / Certificate Programs: The university runs various diploma and certificate courses through its institutes and affiliated programs.
  • High-Demand Courses: UNIBEN is highly revered for its professional and competitive courses, including:
    • Medicine and Surgery (MBBS)
    • Law
    • Pharmacy
    • Computer Engineering
    • Accounting
    • Mass Communication
    • Computer Science

UNIBEN Admission Information

Gaining admission into UNIBEN is highly competitive. Prospective students must meet specific criteria set by both JAMB and the university.

  • General Admission Requirements: Candidates must have at least five (5) O’Level credit passes in relevant subjects, including Mathematics and English Language, obtained in not more than two sittings.
  • Post-UTME Guidelines: After scoring the required JAMB cut-off mark, candidates must register for and participate in the UNIBEN Post-UTME screening exercise. The final admission is based on an aggregate of JAMB and Post-UTME scores.
  • Direct Entry Guidelines: Candidates with A’Level passes, NCE, ND, or HND in relevant fields can apply for Direct Entry admission into the 200-level of their chosen course.
  • Application Portal: All admission processes are handled via the official UNIBEN Kofa portal.
  • Tips for Prospective Students: Ensure your O’Level and JAMB subject combinations perfectly match your desired course requirements as listed on the official UNIBEN website. Prepare thoroughly for the Post-UTME, as it is a crucial component of the admission process.

UNIBEN Cut off Mark

UNIBEN cut-off mark are a key determinant for admission eligibility and vary annually based on performance metrics.

  • General Cut-Off Mark: The minimum JAMB score required to be eligible for the Post-UTME screening is typically 200. However, this is not a guarantee of admission.
  • Departmental Cut-Off Marks: Each department has its own merit cut-off mark based on the number of applicants and their performance. Highly competitive courses like Medicine, Law, and Engineering often have cut-off marks significantly higher than 200, sometimes reaching aggregates of 75% and above.
  • How to Calculate Eligibility: The final admission score is usually a weighted average of your JAMB score (50%) and your Post-UTME score (50%).

UNIBEN Academic Calendar

The UNIBEN academic calendar is structured into two semesters, typically running as follows:

  • First Semester (Harmattan): Usually commences around October/November and ends in March/April. It includes registration, lectures, and examinations.
  • Second Semester (Rainy): Typically starts around April/May and concludes in August/September, followed by a session break.
  • Key Dates: The official calendar, released annually, contains specific deadlines for registration, fee payment, and examination periods.

UNIBEN School Fees and Financial Aid

As a federal university, UNIBEN’s tuition fees are highly subsidized and affordable compared to private or state universities.

  • Tuition Fees: School fees vary depending on the course and level of study but are generally within an affordable range for fresh and returning students. For specific figures, always check the official UNIBEN portal.
  • Payment Methods: Payments are made online through the university’s student information portal (Kofa).
  • Scholarships & Grants: Various scholarship opportunities are available from government bodies, corporations (e.g., Agbami, Shell, NLNG), and philanthropic organizations for eligible students.
  • Financial Aid: The university encourages students to explore opportunities like federal student loans and state bursaries where applicable.

UNIBEN Campus and Student Life

Life at UNIBEN is a vibrant and unforgettable experience, offering a perfect blend of academic rigor and social engagement.

  • Hostels / Accommodation: The university provides on-campus accommodation in its halls of residence at both Ugbowo and Ekehuan campuses. These include Halls 1, 2, 3, 4, Queen Idia Hall, and Queen Amina Hall. Accommodation is limited and highly sought after. Many students live off-campus in nearby communities like Ekosodin and BDPA.
  • Campus Facilities: UNIBEN is equipped with modern facilities, including the expansive John Harris Library, state-of-the-art laboratories, lecture theatres, a sports complex, health centers providing medical care, and numerous cafeterias.
  • Student Associations & Clubs: The Students’ Union Government (SUG) champions student interests. There are also hundreds of faculty, departmental, religious, and social clubs that allow students to explore their interests and develop leadership skills.
  • Campus Events: The academic year is filled with events like Matriculation for new students, the prestigious Convocation ceremony, cultural days, faculty weeks, and academic seminars.

UNIBEN Research and Innovation

UNIBEN is a hub for research and innovation, with a strong commitment to solving societal problems.

  • Research Centers: The university is home to several research centers, including the Centre for Forensic Programs and DNA Studies (CFPDS) and the Centre for Gender Studies.
  • Notable Research: Faculty and students are actively engaged in impactful research across various fields, particularly in medicine, environmental science, and engineering.
  • Collaborations: UNIBEN collaborates with numerous national and international institutions and industry partners to foster innovation and knowledge exchange.

UNIBEN Alumni and Achievements

UNIBEN has produced a vast network of successful alumni who are leaders and change-makers globally.

  • Notable Alumni:
    • Babatunde Fashola: Former Governor of Lagos State and former Federal Minister.
    • Godwin Obaseki: Executive Governor of Edo State.
    • Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD): Veteran Nollywood Actor and Politician.
    • Osondu Adorbah: Renowned author and winner of the Caine Prize for African Writing.
  • University Rankings: UNIBEN consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in Nigeria by various ranking bodies and has a growing presence on the global stage.

UNIBEN Direction and Map

The main campus of the University of Benin is strategically located and easily accessible.

  • Full Address: University of Benin, Ugbowo Campus, Benin-Lagos Expressway, P.M.B. 1154, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
  • Directions: The Ugbowo campus is situated along the major Benin-Lagos expressway, making it easily accessible by road. The Ekehuan campus is located in the city center. Public transport options are readily available from major points in Benin City.

UNIBEN Gallery and Media

A visual tour of UNIBEN showcases its beautiful campuses and dynamic student life. The gallery would typically feature:

  • Photos of iconic landmarks like the main gate, faculties, and the library.
  • Images of students engaged in lectures, sports, and social events.
  • Videos of past convocation ceremonies and campus tours.

UNIBEN Events and Calendar

The university’s calendar is marked by key annual events that are central to the student experience.

  • Upcoming Events: Key events to look out for include the annual Matriculation and Convocation ceremonies, the Vice-Chancellor’s Cup (sports), and various public lectures and conferences.
  • Past Events: The university has a rich history of hosting national and international conferences, workshops, and cultural festivals.

UNIBEN News, Updates and Announcements

Stay updated with the latest information directly from the university administration. For all official news, including admission updates, policy changes, and campus development projects, prospective and current students should regularly check the official UNIBEN website and its social media channels.

UNIBEN Guides and Articles

  • Official List of UNIBEN Courses and Requirements
  • UNIBEN Post-UTME: A Step-by-Step Application Guide
  • Understanding UNIBEN Departmental Cut Off Mark
  • How to Apply for UNIBEN Hostel Accommodation
  • Top Scholarship Opportunities for UNIBEN Students