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JAMB Cut Off Mark: For All Nigerian Universities

JAMB Cut Off Mark
JAMB Cut Off Mark For Universities. See Official Scores For All Nigerian Universities, How It Works, And How To Get Your Admission.

Are you confused about the JAMB cut off mark and how it determines your admission fate? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of aspiring Nigerian students are left anxious, trying to decode the minimum scores required for their chosen university and course. This comprehensive guide will demystify the JAMB cut off mark for 2024, providing you with the official information, strategic insights, and actionable steps you need to navigate the admission process successfully and secure your spot.

The JAMB cut off mark is the minimum Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) score set by a university, polytechnic, or college of education for admission into any of its courses. It is the first major hurdle in your journey to gaining admission into any Nigerian tertiary institution. Understanding how it works is not just important, it’s critical for your planning and success.

What Is The JAMB Cut Off Mark?

The JAMB cut off mark is a baseline score. Think of it as a qualifying exam score. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) sets a general minimum score that all institutions must adhere to (e.g., 140 for universities, 100 for polytechnics/colleges). However, individual universities and even specific faculties within them have the autonomy to set their own JAMB cut off marks significantly higher than this general minimum. For instance, while the general minimum might be 140, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) might set its institutional cut-off at 200, and its Faculty of Medicine might require a score of 250 and above for competitive courses like Medicine and Surgery.

Official JAMB Cut Off Mark For 2024

For the 2024/2025 academic session, JAMB has announced a general minimum cut-off mark of 140 and above for Universities, and 100 and above for Polytechnics and Colleges of Education. It is crucial to note that this is just the absolute minimum. Most federal and state universities set their own standards much higher.

Below is a table showcasing the anticipated institutional cut-off marks for some top universities based on previous years. Please note: These are projections and each university will announce its official score after its annual policy meeting. More universities uploading soon.

UniversityProjected Institutional Cut-Off Mark (2024)
University of Lagos (UNILAG)200
University of Ibadan (UI)200
Covenant University180
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)200
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)160
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)180
University of Benin (UNIBEN)180
Lagos State University (LASU)190

How The JAMB Cut Off Mark Works

Your journey to admission is a two-step process, and the JAMB cut off mark is just the first step:

  1. Meet the UTME Score Threshold: You must score equal to or higher than your chosen institution’s stated cut-off mark. This makes you eligible to purchase their Post-UTME screening form.
  2. The Composite Score Calculation: Admission is rarely based on your UTME score alone. Institutions combine your UTME score, your Post-UTME score, and sometimes your O’Level grades to create a composite or aggregate score. The formula often looks like this:
    • UTME Score: Divided by 8 (e.g., a score of 240 becomes 30 points).
    • Post-UTME Score: Usually out of 100% (e.g., a score of 70% becomes 70 points).
    • O’Level Grades: Graded (A1=10%, B2=9%, B3=8%, etc.) and averaged.

The candidates with the highest composite scores are offered admission first. This means even if your JAMB cut off mark is high, a poor Post-UTME performance can cost you your slot.

Factors That Influence The JAMB Cut Off Mark

Several factors determine why cut-off marks vary:

  • University Prestige: More prestigious universities (e.g., UNILAG, UI, OAU) have higher cut-offs due to intense demand.
  • Course Competitiveness: Courses like Medicine, Law, Engineering, and Pharmacy have the highest cut-off marks because they are the most sought-after.
  • Admission Capacity: The number of available spaces (quota) for a course directly affects the cut-off mark. Fewer spaces mean a higher required score.
  • Overall Performance: The general performance of all students in that year’s UTME can influence the decision.

Read: 5 Best Schools To Learn Computer & Internet Skills In Hausa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is The Lowest JAMB Score To Enter University?

The absolute lowest JAMB cut off mark for any university in Nigeria for the 2024 session is 140, as set by JAMB. However, most universities will not accept this score for any course.

Can I Enter University With 120?

No, you cannot gain admission into a university with a score of 120. This score is below the national minimum of 140 for degree-awarding institutions. You should consider applying to a polytechnic or college of education, or preparing to retake the JAMB UTME.

How Can I Check The Cut Off Mark For My School?

The official JAMB cut off mark for your chosen institution will be announced on the school’s official website and their admissions portal after their policy meeting. You can also find reliable updates on educational resource platforms like Simas Academy.

Does My O Level Result Affect My Admission Chance?

Absolutely. Your O’Level results are a critical part of your composite score. Excellent grades (especially with key relevant subjects for your course) can significantly boost your aggregate score and compensate for a slightly lower UTME score.

What If My Score Is Below My School Cut Off?

If your score is below your institution‘s stated cut-off, you will not be eligible for their Post-UTME screening. Your best options are to either change your institution to one with a lower cut-off via the JAMB portal during the change-of-institution window or prepare to retake the exam the following year.

Is Post UTME More Important Than JAMB?

They are both crucial. Think of JAMB as the key that unlocks the door to Post-UTME. Your Post-UTME performance often carries a significant weight (sometimes 50%) in the final aggregate score that determines your admission. You must excel in both.

What Is The JAMB Cut Off Mark For Medicine And Surgery?

The JAMB cut off mark for Medicine and Surgery is typically the highest. For top universities like UNILAG, UI, and OAU, you should aim for a score of 250 and above to be competitive, alongside a flawless O’Level result and an excellent Post-UTME performance.

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