Graduating with a First Class degree in a Nigerian university might sound like a dream, but trust me, it is achievable. I did not even plan to study Telecommunications Engineering. I applied for Electrical Engineering, but life had other plans. Somehow, I ended up graduating top of my class at Bayero University Kano.

Looking back, it was not just about being smart. It was about setting a clear goal, working consistently, and studying smart from day one. If you are in 100 level or just starting your university journey, here is everything I learned that helped me get a First Class and how you can too.

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What Does a First Class Really Mean?

Before we dive in, let us clear the air. A First Class degree is all about maintaining a high CGPA throughout your university stay.

Most Nigerian universities use either a 4-point or 5-point CGPA scale:

• 5-point scale: 4.5 to 5.0 equals First Class
• 4-point scale: 3.5 to 4.0 equals First Class

Some universities have slight twists, so double-check your school’s grading system. The bottom line is that to get a First Class, you need consistency and discipline, not luck.

Set a SMART Goal from 100 Level

Your first-year mindset matters. Do not aim vaguely to “be the best student.” It is too broad. Instead, set a SMART goal: graduate with a First Class.

Why? Because it is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound. Your goal becomes clear and every decision, from class attendance to study hours, aligns with that goal.

Study Smart, Not Just Hard

Here is where most students go wrong. They cram at the last minute. Do not do that. Here is what worked for me:

1. Review notes immediately after every lecture. Spend 1 to 2 hours summarizing what you learned while it is fresh.
2. Practice past questions. Study at least three years of past questions for every course. Nigerian lecturers often recycle exam topics.
3. Attend classes regularly. Most lecturers check attendance and 70 percent is often required to sit exams. Missing a class occasionally will not hurt as long as you catch up consistently.

Starting to study early reduces stress and allows you to cover more material. By the time exams come, you are just revising what you already know.

Ace Continuous Assessments (CAs) and Tests

Continuous Assessments and tests usually make up 30 percent of your total grade, while exams account for 70 percent.

Example: If you score 28 out of 30 in a test, you only need about 42 to 45 marks in the final exam to get an “A”. This reduces stress and increases your chances of scoring high overall.

Do not underestimate CAs. They can make or break your First Class journey.

Understand Credit Load Weighting

Not all courses are equal. A 3-unit course carries more weight than a 2-unit or 1-unit course.

Example:

• 3 units multiplied by 5 points (A) equals 15
• 2 units multiplied by 5 points (A) equals 10

Failing a high-credit course can pull down your GPA significantly, even if you ace the smaller courses. Focus more energy on courses with heavier credit loads.

Consistency is Everything

It is better to maintain a 4.5+ CGPA each semester than to have one perfect semester and drop later.

Calculate your CGPA after every semester. It helps track your progress and adjust your study strategy early.

You can also check out this guide on calculating your GPA and CGPA in Nigerian universities:

👉 How to Calculate GPA and CGPA in Nigerian Universities (with Examples)

To calculate your GPA, you can use MonoEd GPA Calculator Tool

Join Serious Study Groups and Network

• Join study groups that actually study. Gossip and socializing will not help.
• Befriend smart seniors. They often have past questions, survival tips, and insights into lecturers’ exam patterns.

Leverage Digital Tools and AI

Use modern tools like ChatGPT to:

• Summarize lectures
• Generate practice questions
• Research concepts quickly

Check out this guide on how students can use ChatGPT for studying:
👉 Best Ways Students Can Use ChatGPT for Learning and Study (2025 Guide)

Build Skills Alongside Good Grades

Grades matter, but skills keep doors open. While aiming for a First Class:

• Learn coding, software, or technical skills relevant to your field
• Improve communication and problem-solving skills
• Participate in internships or workshops

Employers and scholarship boards notice both performance and capability.

Apply for Scholarships Early

High grades can earn you scholarships to reduce financial pressure. Check out:

• Scholarships for 100 Level Students in Nigeria (2025 Updated Guide)
• List of Undergraduate Scholarships in Nigeria (2025 Updated Guide)

Scholarships not only reduce stress but can open doors to international opportunities after graduation.

Stay Healthy and Manage Stress

Your brain works best when your body is healthy.

• Sleep adequately
• Eat well
• Exercise moderately
• Avoid distractions like excessive social media or Netflix

A healthy routine ensures you stay sharp, focused, and ready for exams.

Why a First Class Matters

Graduating with a First Class can:

• Boost your prestige and confidence
• Unlock scholarships, local and international
• Give you a job advantage
• Improve your NYSC placement opportunities
• Offer chances for graduate assistantships or academic roles

For me, it was not just about the title. Graduating with a First Class opened doors to scholarships, mentorships, and career opportunities I never imagined.

Wrap Up

If I could achieve it, in a course I did not initially choose, so can you.

Stay consistent. Study smart. Start early. Build skills. Remember that the journey to First Class begins the day you decide you want it.

Related Articles

• Scholarships for 100 Level Students in Nigeria (2025 Updated Guide)
• List of Undergraduate Scholarships in Nigeria (2025 Updated Guide)
• Best Ways Students Can Use ChatGPT for Learning and Study (2025 Guide)
• How to Calculate GPA and CGPA in Nigerian Universities (with Examples)
• The Easy Way to Get a Scholarship Fast: Step-by-Step Guide
• Essential Requirements for Applying for a Full-Funding Scholarship (MSc or PhD)

FAQs

What is a First Class degree in Nigeria?

A First Class degree is awarded to students who maintain a high CGPA throughout their university program. Most universities use either a 4-point or 5-point scale:

• 5-point scale: 4.5 to 5.0
• 4-point scale: 3.5 to 4.0

Achieving a First Class means consistently scoring high grades across all semesters, not just in one or two courses.

Can I graduate with First Class if I do not excel in every course?

Yes. You do not need perfect scores in all courses. Focus on:

• High-credit courses because they affect your CGPA more
• Maintaining consistent grades in every semester
• Doing well in tests and continuous assessments to reduce pressure during exams

When should I start aiming for First Class?

Ideally, from 100 level. Your first-year courses usually carry heavy credit loads, and starting early builds a strong foundation. Setting a SMART goal to graduate with First Class from day one keeps you focused and consistent.

Do I need to attend every lecture to get First Class?

Not necessarily every lecture, but regular attendance helps. Many lecturers require at least 70% attendance to sit for exams. Attending classes helps you:

• Understand tricky concepts
• Take notes while material is fresh
• Get insights and hints for exams

How important are Continuous Assessments and tests?

They are very important because they usually make up 30% of your total grade. Scoring high in tests reduces the pressure during exams. For example, scoring 28 out of 30 in a test only leaves you needing about 42 to 45 in the final exam to get an A.

Can studying past questions really help?

Yes. Most Nigerian lecturers recycle questions, so practicing past questions is one of the smartest ways to prepare. Aim to review at least three years of past questions per course.

Is it enough to focus only on grades for First Class?

No. While grades are essential, skills matter too. Employers and scholarship boards look at what you can do. Build complementary skills such as:

• Coding or technical skills
• Communication and problem-solving abilities
• Internships, workshops, or certifications

How can I track my CGPA effectively?

Calculate your CGPA at the end of each semester. This helps you:

• Monitor progress
• Adjust study strategies
• Identify courses that need extra focus

You can also use online CGPA calculators like MonoEd GPA Calculator or Excel sheets for convenience.

Does First Class improve scholarship and job opportunities?

Absolutely. Graduating with First Class can:

• Increase your chances for scholarships, both local and international
• Give you an advantage when applying for jobs
• Improve your NYSC placement opportunities
• Offer graduate assistantship or academic roles