Admission season is also scam season. Each year, candidates and parents lose money to people selling fake Post-UTME forms, “expo” questions and so-called guaranteed admission. Knowing the common tricks is the best protection.
Scam 1: Fake Post-UTME forms
Scammers post “forms out” messages on WhatsApp and social media with a bank account for payment, sometimes before the real form is released.
- How to spot it: payment to a personal account, or a link that isn’t the university’s own website.
- Protect yourself: pay screening fees only through the payment page on the university’s portal, usually with a Remita reference.
Scam 2: “Expo” and leaked questions
People sell “this year’s Post-UTME questions” for a fee. These are either fake or recycled past questions. Using them is also exam malpractice, and candidates can be disqualified.
Scam 3: Guaranteed admission
Some people claim they can “help” you get admission or move you onto the admission list for money. No legitimate admission is sold. All admissions in Nigeria must be processed and accepted through JAMB CAPS.
Scam 4: Fake admission letters
A printed letter means nothing if your admission isn’t on CAPS. Always confirm your status on the JAMB portal yourself.
Scam 5: Hostel and fee scams
After admission, scammers offer hostel spaces or “discounted” school fees. Pay hostel and school fees only through invoices generated on your student portal. See our guide to paying fees safely.
Warning signs
- Pressure to pay “today” or “before slots finish”.
- Payment into a personal account.
- Promises of high scores or guaranteed admission.
- Messages full of spelling errors or using the school’s logo on a personal WhatsApp account.
If you’ve been scammed
- Stop all further payments.
- Report to your bank immediately and ask them to flag the receiving account.
- Report to the university’s admissions office and keep all messages as evidence.
- Warn others so they don’t fall for the same trick.
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