Securing admission into Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is a competitive process, and understanding the admission catchment area and Educationally Less Developed States (ELDS) criteria is crucial for prospective applicants. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the OAU catchment area for admission and ELDS, shedding light on the states included and the allocation percentages.
OAU Catchment Area for Admission:
The OAU catchment area comprises states from which the university predominantly admits students. If you’re aspiring to join OAU, take note of the following states included in the catchment area:
- Ekiti
- Osun
- Oyo
- Lagos
- Ondo
OAU ELDS for Admission:
Apart from the catchment area, OAU also considers candidates from Educationally Less Developed States (ELDS). The ELDS in Obafemi Awolowo University are as follows:
- Kebbi
- Niger
- Nasarawa
- Taraba
- Bauchi
- Ebonyi
- Sokoto
- Kwara
- Katsina
- Kano
- Borno
- Rivers
- Yobe
- Kaduna
- Adamawa
- Kogi
- Jigawa
- Cross River
- Bayelsa
- Gombe
- Zamfara
- Plateau
- Benue
Admission Categories and Percentages:
OAU’s admission process is divided into three categories: merit, catchment areas, and ELDS. Here’s how the percentages are allocated:
- Merit Category (45%): This category is open to all candidates based on their academic excellence, irrespective of their geographic location.
- Catchment Areas (35%): Reserved for candidates from the specified catchment states.
- Educationally Less Developed States (ELDS) (20%): Allocated to candidates from the listed ELDS.
It’s essential to note that meeting the merit cut-off mark is crucial for all candidates, and a candidate from outside the catchment area can secure admission based on merit. Conversely, a candidate from a catchment state failing to meet the cut-off mark may not be admitted, emphasizing the significance of academic performance.
FAQs on OAU Catchment Area and ELDS
What is the catchment area for OAU admission?
The catchment area for OAU includes the following states:
- Ekiti
- Lagos
- Ogun
- Ondo
- Osun
- Oyo
How does OAU’s catchment area affect admission chances?
- OAU, like other federal universities, gives preference to candidates from its catchment area when admitting students. This means that students from these states may have a slightly lower cut-off mark compared to candidates from non-catchment states.
Do ELDS candidates have an advantage in OAU admission?
- Yes, candidates from ELDS benefit from a lower cut-off mark and additional consideration in the admission process as part of OAU’s effort to promote educational balance across the country.
Can candidates from non-catchment areas gain admission to OAU?
- Yes, candidates from non-catchment areas can still be admitted based on merit, provided they meet or exceed the general admission requirements and cut-off marks.
Related Article: Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Post-UTME Result For 2025/2026 Session
Conclusion
Understanding the OAU admission catchment area and ELDS is vital for prospective students. While the university provides special consideration for candidates within the catchment and ELDS, it maintains a commitment to admitting students based on merit. As you embark on your journey towards OAU admission, ensure you meet the necessary academic requirements to enhance your chances of success.
