Understanding how Nigerian university cutoff marks work is one of the most important steps for any student aiming to gain admission into a higher institution. Each year, thousands of candidates write the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), but only a fraction are offered admission—often due to not meeting the required cutoff marks.
Here are ten key facts every prospective student should know about Nigerian university cutoff marks in 2025.
- What Are Cutoff Marks?
Cutoff marks are the minimum scores a candidate must achieve in UTME or post-UTME to qualify for admission into a course or institution. These marks vary depending on the institution, department, and level of competition.
- JAMB’s National Minimum Score
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) sets the minimum benchmark for all institutions each year. For 2025, the expected benchmark is:
- Universities: 140 and above
- Polytechnics: 100 and above
- Colleges of Education: 100 and above
It’s important to note that these are only the minimum; many universities set much higher departmental scores. For official updates, visit the JAMB website.
- Competitive Schools Set Higher Cutoffs
Top universities such as the University of Lagos (UNILAG), University of Ibadan (UI), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), and University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) typically have much higher cutoff marks. In 2024, UNILAG set Medicine at 280 and Law at 270. These figures are expected to remain high in 2025.
- The Course You Choose Matters
Popular courses like Medicine, Nursing, Law, and Engineering often have the highest cutoff marks. This is due to high demand and limited admission slots. Candidates applying for such courses need to score significantly above the national benchmark to have a chance.
- Catchment Area and Quota Policies
Federal and state universities often operate with catchment area policies and educationally less developed state (ELDS) quotas. If you are from a recognized ELDS, your required score may be slightly lower than for others. This helps balance regional access to education.
- Post-UTME Still Influences Admission
Many institutions conduct post-UTME screening to further filter applicants. Your final admission score is often a weighted combination of your UTME score and post-UTME performance. Failing to perform well in the post-UTME could still disqualify you even if you passed the UTME.
- Private Universities Have More Flexibility
If your UTME score falls below the cutoff for public universities, private institutions may offer more lenient requirements. Though more expensive, they provide an alternative path to quality education without the intense competition of public schools.
- Scored Low? Consider Other Options
Candidates who don’t meet the required Nigerian university cutoff marks still have alternatives. You can:
- Apply for a less competitive course
- Choose a different institution with lower requirements
- Enroll in a polytechnic or college of education
- Retake UTME the following year
Read our full guide on what to do if you don’t meet the university cutoff on Naijabaze.
- Watch for Supplementary Admissions
Many schools offer supplementary admissions for candidates who didn’t make the first list but meet requirements for related courses. Stay updated with announcements from your chosen institution and apply when the opportunity arises.
- Always Check Official and Trusted Sources
Cutoff marks are updated yearly and can change without prior notice. To avoid relying on rumors, visit your university’s admission portal or trusted education platforms like Naijabaze’s Admissions Portal.
Conclusion: Get the Edge You Need
Gaining admission into a Nigerian university goes beyond just passing UTME. Understanding Nigerian university cutoff marks allows you to plan effectively and aim higher. At Naijabaze, we bring you real-time updates, school-specific cutoff trends, and expert admission advice—all in one place.
Visit Naijabaze.com now to stay ahead with reliable admission news, UTME updates, and educational resources that can help you succeed.
