JAMB cut-off marks for 2026 admissions: 6 Things all candidates should know

You must have already known that JAMB has set the minimum cut-off marks for universities at 150, 100 for polytechnics and 150 for Colleges of Nursing. We have noticed that some candidates are not quite clear on what the minimum cut-off mark actually means.

We have taken time to explain what the JAMB minimum cut-off marks means and how it relates to the various tertiary institutions and as well as the candidates seeking admission into these institutions. Below are 6 things you need to know about cut-off marks.

6 Things You Need To Know About New JAMB Cut-off Marks

1. The cut-off marks set by JAMB are called the minimum cut-off marks. It is not the same as the Post-UTME/ admission cut-off marks of institutions. Institutions will still set their own cut-off marks which is the least score you should have to qualify for the Post-UTME screening of the school.

2. Institutions are not allowed to set their admission cut-off marks lower than the JAMB minimum cut-off mark. For instance, the JAMB minimum cut-off mark for universities is 150. This means that no University is allowed to set its Post-UTME admission cut-off mark lower than 150 but they have the right to set it above 150. The same applies to Polytechnics and Colleges of Nursing.

3. Competitive schools will likely set their admission cut-off marks above the minimum JAMB cut-off mark of 150. Especially universities like UNIBEN, UI, UNILAG etc. These universities have a high number of applicants and will set their cut-off marks at 200 or above.

4. So if your JAMB score is not well above 200 and the course and institution you chose during JAMB registration is a competitive one, it will be in your best interest to change to another school or course that has a lower admission cut-off mark so you can stand a chance of securing admission.

5. This does not mean that some universities will not set their cut-off marks at 150. Some of them will surely set their cut-off marks at 150. So if the school you initially chose has a high cut-off mark, you are advised to equally change your institution to one that can accept a low JAMB score.

6. Note that JAMB score is not the only factors that determines the admission of candidates into tertiary institutions. Other factors are Post-UTME screening/test score; O’level results and grades. So you are required to do well in the Post-UTME screening and have a good O’level results to stand a chance especially if your course is a competitive one.

Now you have known what you need to know concerning the JAMB cut-off marks and how it will affect this year’s admission, it is your responsibility to make the best decision with the information you have received. Schools have already started announcing their Post-UTME sales forms and screening dates. Get the official Post-UTME Past Questions and Answers of the various schools. Click here to get yours now. Wish you all the best! Please share this post so others can get informed.

We will do our best to keep you informed on any announcement or update concerning the Post-UTME Screening of your schools of choice.