JAMB cut-off marks change every year. But some courses always stay at the top. These courses get more applicants than others. That’s why their cut-off marks are higher.
In this post, we list the courses with the highest cut-off marks in the 2025 UTME. We also explain why they are hard to get and how you can improve your chances.
Contents
What Is a High Cut-Off Mark?
A high cut-off mark is usually 200 and above. Some schools may set theirs at 250 or higher for certain courses.
This depends on:
- The number of students applying.
- The school’s reputation.
- The course demand.
If a course has many top scorers, the cut-off will rise.
1. Medicine and Surgery
This is the most competitive course in Nigeria.
Why the cut-off is high:
- Many students want to become doctors.
- Limited spaces in most universities.
- Needs high JAMB and post-UTME scores.
Cut-off range:
- 270–320 in top schools like UNILAG, UI, UNN, and OAU.
- 250+ in other federal universities.
2. Law
Law is popular among art students.
Why the cut-off is high:
- It has status.
- Many want to become lawyers or judges.
- Limited slots.
Cut-off range:
- 250–290 in top schools like UNILAG, UI, UNN, and OAU.
- Some state universities accept 230.
3. Pharmacy
Pharmacy is one of the toughest science courses.
Why the cut-off is high:
- Students see it as an option to Medicine.
- It has strong career options.
Cut-off range:
- 260–300 in top universities.
- 240+ in others.
4. Engineering
Not all engineering courses have high cut-offs. But certain ones do.
Most competitive ones:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical/Electronics Engineering
- Civil Engineering
Why the cut-off is high:
- Many students want to work in oil or tech.
- Engineering schools have limited space.
Cut-off range:
- 240–290 in UNILAG, UI, UNILORIN, and FUTA.
- Other schools may accept 220+.
5. Nursing Science
Nursing has become very popular in recent years.
Why the cut-off is high:
- Job demand in Nigeria and abroad.
- Seen as a good backup to Medicine.
Cut-off range:
- 250–290 in top schools.
- 220+ in others.
6. Computer Science
This course is getting more competitive.
Why the cut-off is high:
- Tech jobs are in demand.
- Students see it as a quick route to work or freelancing.
Cut-off range:
- 240–280 in schools like UNILAG, FUTA, UI, and UNIBEN.
- Private schools may accept 180.
7. Accounting
Accounting remains one of the top courses in Nigeria.
Why the cut-off is high:
- It opens doors in banks, firms, and companies.
- Many commercial students apply for it.
Cut-off range:
- 230–270 in schools like UNILAG, UI, and UNIBEN.
- Some polytechnics accept lower scores.
8. Economics
This is another popular social science course.
Why the cut-off is high:
- It is offered in almost all universities.
- Many students apply for it as a first or second choice.
Cut-off range:
- 240–270 in top schools.
- 200+ in many state schools.
9. Mass Communication
Mass Comm is still a hot course for art students.
Why the cut-off is high:
- It links to media, radio, TV, and journalism.
- It attracts many students.
Cut-off range:
- 230–260 in UNILAG, UNN, and UI.
- 200+ in others.
10. Dentistry
Dentistry is not offered by all schools, but where it is, it’s tough to get in.
Why the cut-off is high:
- Closely related to Medicine.
- Very limited slots.
Cut-off range:
- 260–310 in universities like UNILAG, UI, and UNN.
Why These Courses Are Hard to Get
- They have fewer slots. Schools can only admit a set number of students.
- They get many top scorers. This pushes the cut-off up.
- They need strong WAEC results. Most of these courses ask for five credits in one sitting.
- They require high post-UTME scores. JAMB alone is not enough.
Tips to Beat High Cut-Off Courses
- Score 270 and above in JAMB. This gives you a real chance.
- Do well in post-UTME. Some schools give it more weight than JAMB.
- Apply to less competitive schools. Avoid popular schools if your score is average.
- Pick the right subject combination. Don’t lose marks because of wrong UTME subjects.
- Consider related courses. Instead of Medicine, try Anatomy or Physiology.
- Have a strong WAEC result. Some schools use O’level grades in screening.
Final Thoughts
Courses like Medicine, Law, Pharmacy, and Engineering always top the list. If you want any of them, you must work extra hard. These courses need top scores, not just in JAMB but in all parts of the admission process.
Don’t guess. Know the cut-off for your chosen school and course. Use past data to guide your choices. If your score is low, choose less competitive courses or try again.
Getting into a top course in 2025 is possible. You just need the right score and plan.
