Cut-off marks explained

"Cut-off mark" can mean three different things. Mixing them up is one of the most common admission mistakes.

1. JAMB's national minimum

Each year JAMB and the institutions agree a minimum UTME score for admission into each type of institution. It's the lowest score that can be considered at all — not a score that guarantees admission. It's announced through JAMB's official channels.

2. The university's screening cut-off

Each university sets its own minimum JAMB score to apply for its Post-UTME screening. It's often higher than JAMB's national minimum, and some courses ask for more than others. The school publishes it on its official website.

3. The departmental cut-off

This is the one that actually decides admission. After screening, each department ranks candidates by aggregate and admits the best until its places are filled. The lowest aggregate admitted becomes that year's departmental cut-off.

Why cut-offs change every year

• The number of candidates applying for that course.
• How well those candidates scored.
• The number of places available.

So last year's cut-off is a guide, not a promise. Aim comfortably above it.

Other admission factors

Besides merit, many universities also consider catchment area (nearby states), and federal universities keep some places for candidates from educationally less developed states. See how admission works.

Where to find real cut-offs

Only trust figures published by the university itself. Find its official website in the university directory, and calculate your aggregate to compare.