For 2026 admissions, JAMB set the minimum UTME score at 150 for universities and colleges of nursing, and 100 for polytechnics and monotechnics. These are only the lowest scores an institution may consider. Each university then sets its own, usually higher, cut-off, and competitive courses like Medicine or Law often need scores well above 250 at popular schools.
Every year, thousands of candidates celebrate crossing "the cut-off" and then don't get admitted. The reason is simple: the national cut-off is the floor, not the target.
What were the JAMB cut-off marks for 2026?
At its 2026 policy meeting in May, JAMB and heads of institutions fixed these minimum scores, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria:
| Institution type | Minimum UTME score (2026) |
|---|---|
| Universities | 150 |
| Colleges of nursing | 150 |
| Polytechnics and monotechnics | 100 |
The same meeting set admission deadlines for the 2026 session: 31 October 2026 for public universities, 30 November 2026 for private universities, and 31 December 2026 for polytechnics, monotechnics and colleges of education.
Why the national cut-off isn't your real target
The national figure is the lowest score any institution is allowed to consider. Then:
- Each institution sets its own minimum, often higher than 150 at popular universities.
- Each course has its own competition. Medicine, Law, Nursing, Pharmacy and Engineering attract the most applicants, so their effective cut-offs climb high.
- Post-UTME screening and your O'level results are often combined with your UTME score into an aggregate.
How do I find my course's real cut-off?
- Check your chosen university's official website and admission list announcements
- Ask students currently in that department what their UTME scores were
- Look at the previous year's post-UTME eligibility list, which often states the minimum score invited
When will the 2027 cut-off marks be released?
JAMB usually holds its policy meeting after the UTME results are released. In 2026 that was May. Expect the 2027 figures around a similar time, and confirm them on jamb.gov.ng.
Don't aim for the line. Aim past it.
The candidates who get their first-choice course are rarely the ones who just crossed 150. They're the ones who planned for a score with room to spare. If you're targeting a competitive course, read how to score 300 in JAMB and start with a full mock to see where you stand today.
Frequently asked questions
What is the JAMB cut-off mark for universities?
For 2026 admissions, JAMB set 150 as the minimum UTME score for universities and colleges of nursing. Individual universities can, and usually do, set higher cut-offs.
What is the JAMB cut-off mark for polytechnics?
For 2026, the minimum was 100 for polytechnics and monotechnics.
When is the JAMB cut-off for 2027 announced?
JAMB fixes minimum cut-off marks at its annual policy meeting, usually held after the UTME results are out. The 2026 meeting held in May 2026. Watch jamb.gov.ng and reliable news outlets for the 2027 figures.
Is 150 enough to get admission?
150 makes you eligible to be considered at a university that accepts that minimum, but it rarely secures a competitive course. Aim for your chosen school's departmental cut-off plus a margin.
Last checked 22 October 2026. JAMB changes dates and rules from year to year. Always confirm on jamb.gov.ng.
Sources: News Agency of Nigeria — JAMB fixes 2026 cut-off marks · JAMB