Brief History and Evolution of the School of Preliminary Studies, University of Ilorin
Background Information
The school began in 1998 as the Centre for Remedial Studies, and in 2006, the name was changed to the School of Preliminary Studies (SPS) following the approval of the University Senate. In 2009, the school relocated to its current site in Fufu, Ilorin South Local Government Area, Kwara State.
The School primarily serves applicants from the University’s catchment areas—Benue, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Sokoto, and Zamfara States—as well as other Nigerians. SPS admits students into eight (8) faculties: Agriculture, Arts, Communication and Information Sciences, Education, Engineering and Technology, Environmental Sciences, Life Sciences, and Physical Sciences. The school provides a critical academic foundation for students’ success in their future university education. It is also one of the revenue-generating units of the University.
Activities, Achievements, and Functions
The school has consistently fulfilled its mandate of preparing students for entry into 100-level university programs, subject to successful completion of the school’s final examination and meeting other university admission requirements.
It provides foundational knowledge and skills that facilitate a smooth academic transition. In addition, SPS offers a range of academic support services, including tutoring, counseling, mentoring, and academic advising, all aimed at empowering students to succeed and thrive in their undergraduate studies.