Nigerian Universities Cut-Off Marks 2026

With the coming 2026/2027 academic year, thousands of Nigerian students are getting ready to be offered an opportunity to enter federal, state, and private higher learning institutions. Knowledge of the cut-off marks is one of the most important in the admission process. The applicants might not even be allowed to take post-UTME or screening exercises, not to mention being offered a place.

This is a step-by-step guide offering breakdown of the Nigerian Universities Cut-Off Marks 2026, such as general JAMB cut-offs, departmental cut-offs, state-by-state examination, poly-techniques cut-offs and college of education cut-offs, as well as tips to ensure you increase your chances to be accepted.

What Are Cut-Off Marks?

Cut-off marks are the minimum scores that a student must achieve to be considered eligible for admission. In Nigeria, universities generally consider two types of cut-off marks:

1. JAMB Cut-Off Mark
   The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) sets a general baseline score for all universities. Students must meet this minimum score to apply for any university admission.
2. Departmental Cut-Off Mark
   Each university department sets its own minimum score based on factors like:
   • Number of applicants
   • Course competitiveness
   • Performance trends of candidates
   • Available slots approved by regulatory bodies (NUC, MDCN, etc.)

Important Note: Meeting the JAMB cut-off alone does not guarantee admission. Departmental cut-offs and post-UTME/screening performance also play a crucial role.

RECOMMENDED: JAMB 2026 Registration Guide for Candidates

Factors Influencing Cut-Off Marks

Universities consider several factors when determining cut-off marks:

1. Carrying Capacity of the Program
   Professional courses such as Medicine, Nursing, Law, and Engineering have limited slots approved by regulatory bodies. This naturally drives up the cut-off.
2. Number of Applicants
   If a course receives thousands of applications but has very few slots, the cut-off mark will rise to ensure only the most qualified candidates are considered.
3. Performance of Candidates
   When many students score high in UTME, universities raise their cut-offs to select the top-performing candidates.
4. University Policy
   Universities may prioritize candidates from certain regions, catchment areas, or educationally less developed states. O’level grades may also influence departmental cut-offs.
5. Professional Accreditation Requirements
   Courses like Medicine and Engineering follow standards set by professional bodies, which indirectly affect cut-off marks.

Expected JAMB Cut-Off Marks for 2026

While official cut-offs for 2026 will be announced after the JAMB Policy Meeting, past trends allow us to make projections.

University Type	Expected JAMB Cut-Off 2026
Federal Universities	180–200
State Universities	160–180
Private Universities	140–170
Polytechnics	100–150
Colleges of Education	90–120

Observation: Federal universities remain the most competitive due to high academic standards and demand.

Federal Universities Cut-Off Marks 2026

Federal universities are among the most sought-after in Nigeria. Below is the projected departmental cut-off marks for 2026.

Course	Expected Cut-Off (Federal)
Medicine & Surgery	270–320
Dentistry	260–300
Nursing	250–300
Pharmacy	240–280
Law	240–270
Engineering	220–260
Computer Science	220–260
Business/Accounting	180–230
Social Sciences	180–220
Arts & Humanities	160–200

Popular Federal Universities:

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• University of Ibadan (UI)
• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

Note: Medicine and other professional courses consistently have the highest cut-offs due to high competition.

State Universities Cut-Off Marks 2026

State universities offer alternatives for candidates who may not meet federal university cut-offs.

Course	Expected Cut-Off (State)
Medicine & Surgery	250–290
Law	220–260
Nursing	230–270
Engineering	200–240
Science & Social Sciences	160–220
Arts & Education	160–200

Popular State Universities:

• Lagos State University (LASU)
• Delta State University (DELSU)
• Abia State University (ABSU)
• Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
• Rivers State University (RSU)

Observation: Some state universities use screening exercises instead of Post-UTME exams.

Private Universities Cut-Off Marks 2026

Private universities are known for more flexible cut-offs, making them viable alternatives for candidates with moderate scores.

Course	Expected Cut-Off (Private)
Medicine & Surgery	220–250
Nursing	200–240
Law	190–230
Engineering	180–220
Computer Science	170–220
Business/Management	150–200
Arts & Social Sciences	140–180

Popular Private Universities:

• Covenant University
• Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
• Babcock University
• Bowen University
• Redeemer’s University

State-by-State Cut-Off Marks Analysis

South-West

• UNILAG & UI: 200 (most competitive)
• LASU, EKSU: 160–180
• OOU: 160–180

South-East

• UNN: 180–200
• UNIZIK: 180–200
• ABSU, EBSU: 160–180

South-South

• UNIBEN: 200
• UNIPORT: 180–200
• DELSU, NDU: 160–180

North-Central

• UNILORIN: 180–200
• UNIJOS: 180
• BSU, Kogi State University: 160–180

North-East

• UNIMAID: 160–180
• MAUTECH: 160–180
• Gombe State University: 160

North-West

• ABU: 180
• BUK: 180
• UDUSOK, KASU: 160–180

Observation: Federal universities in every zone set the highest cut-offs, particularly for Medicine, Law, and Engineering.

Polytechnics & Colleges of Education Cut-Off Marks

Polytechnics

Type	Expected Cut-Off
Federal	140–150
State	120–140
Private	100–120

Colleges of Education

Type	Expected Cut-Off
Federal	100–120
State	100–120
Private	90–110

Observation: Polytechnics and Colleges of Education provide opportunities for candidates with lower UTME scores. Many COEs allow Direct Entry into 200L after completing NCE.

Cut-Off Marks for Popular Courses 2026

Medicine & Surgery

• Federal: 270–320
• State: 250–290
• Private: 220–250

Nursing

• Federal: 250–300
• State: 230–270
• Private: 200–240

Law

• Federal: 240–270
• State: 220–260
• Private: 190–230

Engineering

• Federal: 220–260
• State: 200–240
• Private: 180–220

Computer Science

• Federal: 220–260
• State: 180–230
• Private: 170–220

Business & Social Sciences

• Federal: 180–230
• State: 160–210
• Private: 150–200

Post-UTME & Screening Guide 2026

1. Understand Your School’s Admission Method
   • Post-UTME exam: UNILAG, UI, OAU, UNN, UNIBEN, UNIPORT
   • Online screening: LASU, ABSU, RSU, UNIOSUN
   • Hybrid screening (documents + exam): ABU, BUK, FUNAAB
2. Focus on Past Questions
   • Core subjects: English, Mathematics, General Knowledge, and course-related subjects
3. Prepare O’level Results
   • Ensure correct subject combinations
   • Strong grades in core subjects
4. Aim for High Aggregate Scores
   • Post-UTME scores can compensate for slightly lower UTME scores
5. Avoid Scams
   • Only use official school portals for payments and registration

How to Strategically Beat Cut-Off Marks

Understanding cut-off marks is one thing; beating them is another. Here’s a step-by-step guide for candidates aiming for 2026 admission:

Step 1: Choose Your Courses Wisely

• Pick courses you are academically strong in.
• Consider flexibility: If a course is highly competitive (e.g., Medicine), have a backup (e.g., Nursing or Pharmacy).

Step 2: Maximize Your UTME Score

• Aim well above the general cut-off (e.g., 230+ for federal universities).
• Focus on English, Mathematics, and subject-related questions.

Step 3: Post-UTME Preparation

• Practice past questions.
• Study topics frequently tested in your chosen course.
• Time your practice to improve speed and accuracy.

Step 4: Perfect Your O’level Results

• Ensure core subjects are strong (A1–C6).
• Avoid mistakes like wrong subject combinations or pending results.

Step 5: Leverage Polytechnic and COE Options

• If your UTME score is below 180, consider polytechnics or Colleges of Education.
• Many polytechnic programs allow direct entry into degree programs later.

Step 6: Track State and Federal Trends

• Federal universities in competitive zones (South-West, South-East) require higher scores.
• State universities in less competitive zones may accept lower scores.

Step 7: Prepare Financially

• Private universities and some state universities have high post-UTME or screening fees.
• Budget accordingly to avoid last-minute stress.

Step 8: Avoid Scams

• Only pay through official university portals.
• Never trust unofficial agents promising guaranteed admission.

Detailed Course-by-Course State Comparisons

Here’s a quick guide for high-demand courses by state zone:

Course	South-West	South-East	South-South	North-Central	North-East	North-West
Medicine	280–320	270–310	270–300	270–310	260–300	270–310
Law	240–270	240–270	240–260	240–270	230–260	240–270
Engineering	220–260	220–250	220–260	220–250	210–240	220–250
Nursing	250–300	240–280	240–280	240–280	230–270	240–280
Computer Science	220–260	210–250	220–250	220–250	210–240	220–250

Observation:

• Medicine and Law consistently top the cut-off charts.
• Engineering, Nursing, and Computer Science remain highly competitive in federal universities.
• Arts, Education, and Social Sciences have relatively lower cut-offs (160–220) across all zones.

Alternative Pathways for Admission

If your UTME score is below university cut-offs, there are alternative pathways:

1. Polytechnic Education
   • Federal polytechnics: 140–150 cut-offs
   • State polytechnics: 120–140
   • Many polytechnic diplomas allow direct entry into 200L of university programs.
2. Colleges of Education (COEs)
   • Federal COEs: 100–120
   • State COEs: 100–120
   • Private COEs: 90–110
   • NCE holders can later apply for direct entry into degree programs.
3. Private Universities
   • Offer flexible cut-offs (140–170)
   • Some provide scholarships for high-performing students.
4. Change of Course or Institution via JAMB
   • Candidates who missed cut-offs can change their course or institution post-UTME registration, depending on availability.

Expert Tips for 2026 Admission Success

• Start Early: Start UTME and after UTME preparation months before.
• Major in Subjects: English and Mathematics are highly valued in most universities.
• Practice Time Management: This is particularly in exams such as post-UTME which have timings.
• Keep up with it: A cut-off announcement can be made on official JAMB and university portals.
• Apply Broadly: Pick a combination of federal, state and private universities to maximize probability.
• Keep Track of Departmental Cut-Offs: In certain courses there is a higher cut-off than in the university in general.
• Utilize Online Resources: Free past questions, tutorials, and webinars are tools that can be used to enhance performance.

Step-by-Step 2026 University Admission Checklist

To ensure you meet all requirements and maximize your chances, follow this detailed checklist:

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• Check your JAMB UTME score against general university cut-offs.
• Verify that your O’level subjects meet the minimum requirement for your course.
• Ensure you meet any age or residency restrictions, if applicable.

Step 2: Select Universities Strategically

• Choose a mix of federal, state, and private universities.
• Include courses with slightly lower cut-offs as backup options.
• Factor in location, tuition fees, and personal preferences.

Step 3: Prepare for Post-UTME

• Review past questions and syllabi.
• Focus on time management and practice under exam conditions.
• Ensure you have all required documents ready (O’level certificates, JAMB slip, passport photo).

Step 4: Submit Post-UTME Registration

• Pay fees through the official school portal.
• Complete online registration accurately to avoid mistakes that could disqualify you.

Step 5: Attend Screening / Exams

• Arrive early on the exam day.
• Bring all required documents, including IDs and JAMB registration slip.
• Avoid stress—stay calm and focused during the exam.

Step 6: Monitor Admission Status

• Check university portals regularly for post-UTME results.
• Keep track of cut-off updates and available slots.
• Respond promptly if your application is shortlisted for interviews or additional screening.

Step 7: Accept Admission Offer

• Once offered admission, accept it immediately through the official portal.
• Pay necessary acceptance fees.
• Complete registration requirements before deadlines.

Tip: Missing deadlines can result in losing your admission, even if you met all cut-offs.

Additional Tips to Maximize Admission Chances

1. Apply to Multiple Courses / Schools:
   • Don’t limit yourself to one university. Apply to 3–5 universities for higher chances.
2. Focus on High-Demand Courses Early:
   • Popular courses like Medicine, Nursing, Law, and Engineering are extremely competitive.
   • Early preparation gives you a better advantage.
3. Use High-Quality Study Materials:
   • Access past questions, textbooks, and online tutorials for post-UTME preparation.
4. Practice Mock Exams:
   • Simulate post-UTME conditions at home to improve speed and accuracy.
5. Stay Updated with Official Information:
   • Follow JAMB and university official websites to avoid misinformation.
6. Consider Scholarship Options:
   • Some private universities offer scholarships for candidates with high UTME or post-UTME scores.
7. Leverage Catchment Area Quotas:
   • Some federal and state universities reserve slots for candidates from their local state or region.

Projected 2026 Cut-Off Summary by University Type

University Type	Minimum UTME Score	Competitive Courses
Federal	180–200	Medicine, Law, Nursing, Engineering
State	160–180	Medicine, Nursing, Law, Science
Private	140–170	Medicine, Nursing, Engineering, Business
Polytechnics	100–150	Engineering, Computer Science, Business
Colleges of Education	90–120	Education, Arts, Sciences

Observation:

• Federal universities dominate the highest cut-offs due to limited slots and high competition.
• State universities are moderately competitive but offer strong alternatives.
• Private universities provide flexibility, especially for candidates with moderate scores.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Admission

1. Ignoring Cut-Off Updates
   • Always confirm cut-off marks for the current year. Relying on old information may lead to failed applications.
2. Incorrect O’level Subjects
   • For example, applying for Medicine without Biology or Chemistry will invalidate your application.
3. Late Post-UTME Registration
   • Missing deadlines can automatically disqualify candidates.
4. Falling for Admission Scams
   • Only use official portals for payments. No legitimate university guarantees admission for a fee.
5. Focusing Only on UTME Scores
   • Remember: post-UTME results, departmental cut-offs, and O’level grades matter too.
6. Neglecting Backup Options
   • Always apply to multiple universities or courses to avoid total disappointment.

Why Understanding Cut-Off Marks Is Critical

Understanding cut-off marks is more than knowing the minimum UTME score. It allows candidates to:

• Plan strategically for course and university selection.
• Prepare effectively for post-UTME exams.
• Avoid wasted applications to highly competitive programs they are unlikely to gain admission to.
• Identify alternative pathways through polytechnics, Colleges of Education, or private universities.

Pro Tip: Always aim 5–10 points above projected cut-offs to strengthen your chances.

Final Thoughts and Conclusion

The 2026 university admission process in Nigeria is competitive, but candidates who understand cut-off marks, prepare strategically, and leverage alternative pathways stand a higher chance of success.

Key takeaways:

1. Cut-offs in federal universities are the highest and especially with Medicine, Law and Engineering.
2. The state universities are good alternatives and their cut-offs are a bit lower.
3. The flexibility of the private universities can also be suitable and they may be suitable to average candidates who have moderate scores.
4. Colleges of Education and Polytechnics could be considered as good alternatives to lower UTME scores and be used as direct entry to university.
5. O-level grades and post UTME preparation are also fundamental factors as well as UTME scores.
6. Keeping track of cut-off updates and portals are the guarantee that you are not disqualified.

By following this comprehensive 2026 guide, candidates can strategically select courses, maximize scores, avoid common pitfalls, and successfully gain admission into their desired Nigerian universities.