Universities That Accept Second Class Lower for Master’s in Nigeria In 2025

Earning a master’s degree in Nigeria with a Second Class Lower (2:2) CGPA is possible, but it depends on the university and the course of study. While many universities prefer Second Class Upper (2:1) or higher, several institutions accept candidates with Second Class Lower (2:2) for master’s programs, especially if they have work experience, strong references, or additional qualifications.

This is a list of Nigerian universities that accept Second Class Lower for master’s programs, their requirements, and how applicants can improve their chances of admission.

1. Can You Do a Master’s with a Second Class Lower (2:2) in Nigeria?

Yes, many Nigerian universities accept applicants with a Second Class Lower (2:2) degree for master’s programs, though additional requirements may apply. Some conditions include:

Relevant Work Experience (One to three years may be required).
Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) (If the CGPA is very low, some universities require PGD before MSc admission).
Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) (Explaining academic performance and career goals).
Professional Certifications (Additional qualifications may improve admission chances).
Higher CGPA in Final Year Courses (Some universities consider improved performance in the final year).

2. List of Universities That Accept Second Class Lower (2:2) for Master’s in Nigeria

Several federal, state, and private universities in Nigeria accept applicants with Second Class Lower (CGPA 2.5 – 3.49 on a 5.0 scale) for master’s programs.

2.1 Federal Universities That Accept Second Class Lower for Master’s

The following federal universities accept Second Class Lower for master’s programs, with some requiring work experience or PGD:

University of Lagos (UNILAG) – Accepts 2:2 for some programs with work experience.
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria – 2:2 accepted, but PGD may be required for some courses.
University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) – 2:2 accepted for some MSc programs, especially in social sciences.
Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) – Some science and technology courses accept 2:2 with PGD.
University of Benin (UNIBEN) – 2:2 accepted for some programs with additional requirements.
Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) – 2:2 accepted for agriculture-related master’s programs.
University of Calabar (UNICAL) – Accepts 2:2 for some postgraduate programs.
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife – Some courses accept 2:2, but work experience may be required.
University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) – Accepts 2:2 for certain programs with relevant experience.

2.2 State Universities That Accept Second Class Lower for Master’s

Several state universities in Nigeria are flexible with Second Class Lower admissions:

Lagos State University (LASU) – Accepts 2:2, especially in business and social sciences.
Rivers State University (RSU) – Some programs accept 2:2 if the candidate has relevant experience.
Ekiti State University (EKSU) – Accepts 2:2 for most programs with additional requirements.
Delta State University (DELSU) – Offers master’s admission to 2:2 graduates, depending on the course.
Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ogun State – 2:2 is accepted for some postgraduate programs.
Benue State University (BSU) – Allows 2:2 holders to apply for master’s degrees in various disciplines.
Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) – 2:2 accepted for some MSc programs.
Nasarawa State University (NSUK) – Accepts 2:2 for certain courses, often requiring work experience.
Kwara State University (KWASU) – Some master’s programs allow 2:2 admissions.

2.3 Private Universities That Accept Second Class Lower for Master’s

Private universities in Nigeria tend to have more flexible admission requirements, making them a good option for candidates with Second Class Lower.

Covenant University, Ota – Some master’s programs accept 2:2 with work experience.
Babcock University, Ogun State – Allows 2:2 for several master’s programs.
Bowen University, Iwo – Offers MSc admission to candidates with a 2:2 in some courses.
Igbinedion University, Okada – Accepts 2:2 for many postgraduate programs.
Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) – Provides postgraduate opportunities for 2:2 graduates.
American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola – Flexible admission policy for postgraduate programs.

3. Additional Requirements for 2:2 Holders Seeking Master’s Admission

If you have a Second Class Lower, you may need to fulfill additional requirements to improve your admission chances.

3.1 Postgraduate Diploma (PGD)

Some universities require PGD before progressing to MSc.

PGD typically lasts one year.
Required if your CGPA is below 2.75 on a 5.0 scale.

3.2 Relevant Work Experience

Many universities consider applicants with at least one to three years of work experience.
Particularly beneficial for MBA, public administration, and social science courses.

3.3 Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)

Clearly explain why you want to pursue a master’s degree.
Highlight any professional or academic achievements.

3.4 Professional Certifications

Certifications like CIPM, PMP, CISA, ACCA can strengthen your application.
Especially useful for business, finance, and technology programs.

3.5 Higher CGPA in Final Year Courses

Some universities consider improved academic performance in the final year.

4. How to Apply for a Master’s with a Second Class Lower in Nigeria

If you have a Second Class Lower (2:2), follow these steps to improve your admission chances:

Step 1: Research Universities and Programs

Identify universities that accept 2:2 for master’s programs.
Check if your preferred course has additional requirements.

Step 2: Check If PGD is Required

Some universities require PGD before MSc if the CGPA is too low.

Step 3: Prepare Application Documents

Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts.
Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your goals.
Work experience certificates (if required).
Professional certifications (if available).
Letters of Recommendation from lecturers or employers.

Step 4: Apply Online or Through the University’s Admission Office

Fill out the university’s online application form.
Pay the application fee (varies by institution).

Step 5: Attend Screening or Interviews (If Required)

Some universities require an interview or entrance exam.

5. Can You Get a Master’s in Nigeria with a Second Class Lower?

Yes, many federal, state, and private universities in Nigeria accept applicants with a Second Class Lower (2:2) CGPA for master’s programs. However, applicants may need to provide work experience, a strong SOP, professional certifications, or complete a PGD before progressing to an MSc.