Navigating the complexities of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) cut-off mark system can be overwhelming for prospective students looking to gain admission into Nigerian universities. With a score of 160, many students may wonder if they have the opportunity to attend a reputable institution in the country. The good news is that there are several universities, both federal and state-owned, as well as private institutions, that accept this score as their minimum cut-off mark for admission. In this comprehensive guide, I will walk you through the universities that accept 160 as a cut-off mark in the 2025/2026 academic session and how you can increase your chances of gaining admission.
TL;DR (Summary Box)
If you’ve scored 160 in the 2025/2026 JAMB exams, you still have a chance to secure admission into various universities across Nigeria. In this article, we break down the list of federal, state, and private universities that accept this cut-off mark, as well as practical steps to improve your admission chances. Read on for more details!
Understanding the JAMB Cut-Off Mark System in Nigeria
The JAMB cut-off mark is the minimum score a candidate must achieve to be eligible for admission into Nigerian universities. Each university determines its cut-off mark based on various factors, including the number of applicants, the level of competition, and available spaces for admission. The JAMB-approved national minimum cut-off mark typically sets the baseline for all institutions, but universities can adjust this mark, with some accepting lower scores.
For the 2025/2026 session, a cut-off mark of 160 might not be competitive at top-tier universities, but it still opens up doors to several good institutions, especially when combined with strong post-UTME performance.
Federal Universities That Accept 160 as Cut-Off Mark
There are several federal universities that allow candidates with a JAMB score of 160 to apply. These institutions offer quality education and provide an opportunity to pursue various degree programs. Here’s a closer look at some of them:
1. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
FUNAAB is renowned for its focus on agricultural sciences and related fields. It accepts candidates with a minimum score of 160 for certain programs. As a federal university, it offers quality education and a wide range of facilities.
Courses Available:
Agricultural Economics
Animal Science
Crop Protection
Environmental Management
2. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
Located in the northeast of Nigeria, the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) is another federal institution that accepts 160 as its cut-off mark. With a focus on innovation and research, UNIMAID offers several degree programs.
Courses Available:
Social Science
Sciences
Education
Engineering
3. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
UNN, one of Nigeria’s oldest and most prestigious universities, offers admission with a 160 JAMB score for certain programs, particularly in the social sciences and humanities.
Courses Available:
Business Administration
History
Psychology
Sociology
4. Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)
FUTMINNA, a leading technological university, is open to candidates with a score of 160. Known for its engineering and technological programs, it offers a variety of courses.
Courses Available:
Computer Science
Civil Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
5. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
Located in Awka, Anambra State, UNIZIK offers a 160 cut-off mark for a range of degree programs. With a strong emphasis on research, UNIZIK is one of the best universities in southeastern Nigeria.
Courses Available:
Law
Medicine
Computer Science
Mass Communication
6. Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
FUTO is an excellent choice for students interested in technology-related courses. With a 160 cut-off mark, it provides quality education in various technical fields.
Courses Available:
Information Technology
Biotechnology
Mechanical Engineering
Petroleum Engineering
7. Modibbo Adama Federal University of Technology (MAUTECH)
Located in Yola, Adamawa State, MAUTECH accepts candidates with a JAMB score of 160. It is well known for its focus on technical and agricultural courses.
Courses Available:
Agricultural Engineering
Geology
Chemical Engineering
Architecture
State Universities That Accept 160 as Cut-Off Mark
Several state universities across Nigeria also accept a 160 JAMB score as a minimum requirement for admission. These institutions are often more affordable and provide a variety of degree programs.
Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU)
Benue State University, Makurdi (BSUM)
Delta State University, Abraka (DELSU)
Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti (EKSU)
These universities typically offer competitive programs at more affordable tuition rates than federal institutions.
Private Universities That Accept 160 as Cut-Off Mark
Private universities provide another option for students who score 160 in JAMB. They offer a wide range of courses, though the tuition fees may be higher. Some private institutions that accept 160 include:
Baze University, Abuja
Covenant University, Ota
Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD)
Madonna University, Elele
While these universities offer quality education, it’s important to consider the cost of tuition before applying.
Popular Courses You Can Apply for with a 160 Cut-Off
With a 160 JAMB score, you may not be eligible for competitive programs like Medicine or Law at top-tier universities, but there are still many interesting courses you can pursue:
Social Sciences: Courses in Psychology, Sociology, and Economics.
Engineering: Various branches of Engineering, including Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical.
Humanities: English, History, and Philosophy.
Science: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
Each university may have different requirements and thresholds for admission to specific courses, so it’s important to research carefully before choosing your course of study.
How to Increase Your Chances of Admission
Even with a 160 JAMB score, there are several ways to increase your chances of gaining admission to your chosen university.
1. Perform Well in Post-UTME
Many universities conduct a post-UTME screening process where candidates are assessed further through written exams or interviews. Perform exceptionally well in this stage to improve your chances.
2. Ensure You Meet O’Level Requirements
Ensure that you meet the necessary O’level requirements, such as having a minimum of five credits in relevant subjects. Many universities will only admit candidates who meet both JAMB and O’level requirements.
3. Choose the Right Course
Consider selecting a course with less competition. While courses like Medicine and Law are highly competitive, you may have a better chance with courses in the humanities, sciences, or social sciences.
Things to Note
Research Specific University Requirements: Each university may have unique additional requirements, including specific subject combinations for your chosen course.
Follow Up on Admission Status: After applying, stay updated on your admission status through official university portals.
Alternative Options: Consider applying for a pre-degree or foundation program if you do not meet the direct entry requirements.
Disclaimer
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors such as pricing, hours, or location details. Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
