Not every student will score high in JAMB—and that’s okay. A low score doesn’t mean the end of your university dream. Many Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and private schools still accept students with scores between 120 and 180, and some even admit candidates with 100.
This guide explains what counts as a low JAMB score, why some schools accept them, and a full list of universities and polytechnics you can apply to in 2025/2026.
Contents
- What Is Considered a Low JAMB Score?
- Why Do Some Schools Accept Low Scores?
- Federal Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores (2025)
- State Universities That Consider 120–160
- Private Universities That Accept Low Scores
- Polytechnics and Colleges of Education
- Less Competitive Courses You Can Choose
- What To Do If Your Score Is Below 140
- FAQs on Low JAMB Scores in 2025
What Is Considered a Low JAMB Score?
- A low JAMB score is anything below 180.
- Most top universities (e.g., UNILAG, UI, OAU) require 200 and above.
- However, many federal, state, and private institutions set their cut-off marks between 120–160 to admit more students.
✅ Tip: Some schools reduce cut-off marks each year depending on overall candidate performance.
Why Do Some Schools Accept Low Scores?
- Fewer applicants compared to top schools.
- Need to fill available admission slots.
- Location in less competitive or developing areas.
- Flexible entry via part-time, diploma, or pre-degree programs.
- Private universities often relax requirements since they operate differently from public schools.
Federal Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores (2025)
| University | State | Minimum Cut-off | Notable Courses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal University, Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA) | Katsina | 140 | Science, Education, Arts |
| Federal University, Otuoke (FUOTUOKE) | Bayelsa | 140 | Engineering, Arts, Education |
| Federal University, Birnin Kebbi (FUBK) | Kebbi | 140–160 | Sciences, Social Sciences |
| Niger Delta University (NDU) | Bayelsa | 150 | Education, Agriculture |
| Federal University, Kashere (FUK) | Gombe | 140 | Arts, Science |
State Universities That Consider 120–160
| University | Location | Minimum Cut-off | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta State University (DELSU) | Abraka | 150 | Competitive courses like Medicine require higher scores |
| Ebonyi State University (EBSU) | Abakaliki | 140 | Easier admission for Education & Agriculture |
| Enugu State University (ESUT) | Enugu | 150 | Business & Social Sciences flexible |
| Abia State University (ABSU) | Uturu | 140 | Cut-off varies by course |
| Yusuf Maitama Sule University (NWU) | Kano | 140 | Science & Education focus |
Private Universities That Accept Low Scores
Private schools are more flexible. Many accept 120 and above.
- Igbinedion University, Okada – accepts 120+, offers Law & Medicine.
- Lead City University, Ibadan – accepts 120+, flexible payment plans.
- Madonna University – accepts 120+, known for discipline.
- Novena University, Delta – accepts 120+, less competitive.
- Gregory University, Uturu – open to low scores, health-related focus.
Polytechnics and Colleges of Education
If your score is below 140, polytechnics and COEs are strong alternatives. Many accept from 100 upwards.
Top Choices:
- Auchi Polytechnic
- YABATECH (Yaba College of Technology)
- Federal Polytechnic, Nekede
- Kwara State Polytechnic
- College of Education, Zuba
Less Competitive Courses You Can Choose
If your score is low, applying for less competitive courses increases your chances.
- Agriculture
- Education
- Library and Information Science
- History & International Studies
- Philosophy
- Fisheries and Forestry
✅ Strategy: You can later switch via inter-departmental transfer or Direct Entry.
What To Do If Your Score Is Below 140
- Apply to universities that accept 120–140.
- Consider private universities, polytechnics, or COEs.
- Explore pre-degree, part-time, or diploma programs.
- Use JAMB’s Change of Institution/Course option.
- Re-register next year if you prefer a higher-ranked school.
FAQs on Low JAMB Scores in 2025
Q: Can I study Medicine with a JAMB score of 150?
A: Not likely. Medicine requires much higher scores, but you can take related courses first and switch later.
Q: Do private universities require post-UTME?
A: Many don’t, making them a faster route for students with low scores.
Q: Will cut-off marks remain the same in 2025?
A: They may change slightly each year based on general performance. Always confirm with the school’s website.
A low JAMB score in 2025 doesn’t end your dream. Many universities, polytechnics, and private schools accept scores between 120–160.
👉 Be smart: apply early, choose less competitive courses, and prepare for post-UTME. Your admission chance is still alive.
