Federal Universities Accept 120 as Cut-Off Mark for 2025/26: What It Means for Students and Parents
TL;DR (Summary Box)
- Federal universities can now accept 120 as minimum UTME score for 2025/26 admissions
- State universities maintain a higher threshold of 140
- Polytechnics, Colleges of Education, and IEIs can admit students with scores as low as 100
- These changes aim to increase accessibility to tertiary education but come with implications for quality, competition, and strategy
Introduction: The New Admission Era
I remember my first JAMB result vividly. Scoring 187 back then was a mix of excitement and fear. Now, in 2025, the bar has shifted significantly. If you scored 120, you’re not out of the race. You might actually be university-bound.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) recently announced revised minimum cut-off marks for 2025/2026, opening up new doors for many candidates. This development has stirred up a lot of questions, hopes, and concerns, especially among students, parents, and educational stakeholders.
Let me walk you through everything you need to know about this policy shift.
2025/26 Cut-Off Marks Breakdown
Here’s a simplified and visual overview of the current accepted minimum cut-off marks across institutions in Nigeria:
| Institution Type | 2025/26 Minimum Cut-Off Mark |
|---|---|
| Federal Universities | 120 |
| State Universities | 140 |
| Polytechnics | 100 |
| Colleges of Education | 100 |
| Innovative Enterprise Institutions (IEIs) | 100 |
Source: JAMB Official Website
Why the Reduction in Scores?
From what I gathered while attending an educational summit in Abuja this year, the key reasons behind this adjustment are:
- Increased Accessibility: Thousands of students miss admission yearly despite passing UTME due to high cut-offs.
- Institutional Autonomy: Schools now determine their internal screening criteria even with lower JAMB thresholds.
- Population Growth: Nigeria’s youth population is rising, and the demand for higher education is following suit.
- Underutilized Capacity: Many public institutions fail to fill available slots due to stringent entry requirements.
A top JAMB official stated during the policy meeting: *”We want to democratize access without compromising institutional independence.”
What This Means for You
If you’re a student or parent navigating admission this year, here’s what this change implies:
- More Hope, More Options: A UTME score of 120 no longer shuts the university door.
- Competitive Programmes Still Demand More: Medicine, Law, and Engineering will still require 180+ in most cases.
- Your O’Level Still Matters: Five relevant credits (including English and Maths) remain non-negotiable.
- Post-UTME Is a Wild Card: Schools can set higher internal tests and screening benchmarks.
“With this 120, I finally stand a chance to study Mass Comm in a federal university,” says Precious, a UTME candidate from Enugu.
Federal vs State vs Private: Know Your Odds
Understanding the dynamics across these institution types can help you make a smarter application decision:
| Institution Type | Cut-Off | Admission Likelihood | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Universities | 120 | Moderate to Low | Subsidized fees, prestige, facilities | High competition |
| State Universities | 140 | Moderate | More accessible than federal, some top-rated | Often higher fees |
| Private Universities | Varies | High | Easy entry, better student-staff ratio | Expensive |
Always check the official website of your chosen school for up-to-date departmental cut-off marks.
Polytechnics and Colleges: A Smart Alternative?
A lot of students overlook polytechnics and colleges of education. But I’ve met several professionals who started there and thrived.
Key Advantages:
- Shorter courses (ND/HND or NCE)
- More practical training
- Lower tuition costs
- Easier admission route with 100 cut-off
Top-Ranked Polytechnics in 2025:
- Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH)
- Federal Polytechnic Nekede
- Kaduna Polytechnic
Leading Colleges of Education:
- Federal College of Education, Zaria
- Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo
- Federal College of Education, Kano
Innovative Enterprise Institutions (IEIs): The Underrated Option
IEIs are still unfamiliar to many. These are skill-based institutions offering diplomas in ICT, Media, Design, and more. They cater to job-ready skills and often partner with international certifiers.
Top Features of IEIs:
- Accept scores as low as 100
- Flexible schedules (online, part-time)
- Hands-on training
Some recommended IEIs for 2025:
- NIIT Nigeria
- Aptech Computer Education
- Digital Bridge Institute (DBI)
Explore the NBTE Directory for more options.
My Personal Take: A Conversation with Hopeful Applicants
At a recent mentorship event in Abuja, I asked three candidates what this new cut-off mark means to them.
“It gave me a second chance. I was already thinking of rewriting JAMB,” said Yusuf, who scored 124.
“I think it will flood schools with unserious students unless there’s proper screening,” cautioned Ada, a prospective Law student.
“I applied to an IEI because I want to start earning faster with tech skills,” shared Bola, an aspiring UI/UX designer.
This policy may not solve all problems, but it certainly opens new pathways for different kinds of learners.
Top Questions Answered (FAQs)
1. What is the JAMB cut-off mark for 2025/26?
The JAMB cut-off mark for the 2025/26 academic session has been set as follows:
-
Federal Universities: 120
-
State Universities: 140
-
Polytechnics: 100
-
Colleges of Education: 100
-
Innovative Enterprise Institutions: 100
2. Why has the cut-off mark been lowered for some institutions?
The reduction in the cut-off marks is aimed at increasing access to tertiary education for a larger pool of candidates, especially in the face of rising student numbers and the desire to make education more inclusive.
3. Does this mean the quality of education will drop?
Not necessarily. While the cut-off mark has been lowered, universities and other institutions are still expected to maintain academic standards. The cut-off mark only determines eligibility for admission, and institutions may still have their own internal criteria for selecting candidates.
4. Can I still be admitted if I score below the cut-off mark?
If you score below the set cut-off mark, you will not be considered for admission through the regular JAMB process. However, some institutions may offer remedial or foundation programs for candidates who do not meet the mark but still demonstrate potential for success in their academic careers.
5. What are the chances of admission if I meet the cut-off mark?
Meeting the cut-off mark gives you eligibility for admission, but it does not guarantee a spot, especially in highly competitive courses. Factors such as your performance in post-UTME exams, available spaces in your chosen program, and any extra criteria set by the institution will also be considered.
6. Are private universities affected by the new cut-off mark?
Private universities are not mandated to follow the same cut-off marks set by the JAMB. However, many private institutions set their own admission criteria, which could be similar or higher depending on their internal policies.
7. What is the role of the post-UTME in the admission process?
Post-UTME exams are used by many universities to further screen candidates after they have met the JAMB cut-off mark. The exam evaluates your readiness for tertiary education and may influence your chances of admission, especially if your JAMB score is near the cut-off mark.
8. How do I prepare for the JAMB exam to meet the cut-off mark?
Preparation is key to securing a spot in your desired university. Focus on:
-
Studying past JAMB questions and syllabus.
-
Practicing time management during mock exams.
-
Attending JAMB preparatory classes or online courses.
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Maintaining consistent study habits to strengthen your knowledge across all subjects.
9. Will the cut-off mark change in the future?
While the current cut-off marks for 2025/26 are as stated, JAMB may review and adjust the cut-off marks annually based on the performance of candidates and the availability of spaces in institutions. Always keep an eye on official announcements from JAMB for any changes.
10. How can I apply for admission once the cut-off mark is released?
After the release of the cut-off marks, follow the steps below:
-
Check your JAMB results to see if you meet the cut-off mark.
-
Monitor your institution’s website for any additional requirements or announcements regarding their internal application process (such as post-UTME).
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Complete the institution’s admission application as directed.
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Prepare for the post-UTME exam if required by your institution.
11. Are there any scholarships for students with low JAMB scores?
Yes, some universities and organizations offer scholarships based on academic performance, including JAMB scores. Check with individual institutions or look for government or private sector scholarship programs that may consider lower cut-off scores but still value academic excellence.
12. Where can I get more information on the 2025/26 JAMB cut-off marks?
You can get the latest information about the 2025/26 JAMB cut-off marks from the official JAMB website (https://www.jamb.gov.ng), as well as from the websites and admission offices of the respective universities, polytechnics, and other tertiary institutions.
Final Words & Official Links
The 2025/26 admission cycle is shaping up to be more inclusive and dynamic. Whether you scored 100, 120, or 180, the doors to tertiary education in Nigeria are wider than ever.
Explore. Compare. Choose wisely.
Helpful Resources:
Disclaimer:
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