The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) serves as the central body overseeing university admissions in Nigeria. It conducts the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), a key step for students aspiring to higher education. For the 2026/2027 academic session, the JAMB cut-off mark acts as the minimum UTME score required for eligibility to apply for admission into various courses, including Performing Arts. This benchmark ensures institutions maintain standards while admitting qualified candidates.
Performing Arts encompasses disciplines like theatre, dance, music, and film studies. It attracts creative individuals passionate about expression and culture. In Nigeria, programs often appear under names such as Theatre Arts, Performing Arts, or Theatre and Film Studies. The cut-off mark for these fields varies by institution and session, influenced by applicant numbers and performance.
As of October 2025, official details for the 2026/2027 session remain unannounced, with JAMB typically revealing them after the policy meeting in mid-2026. Based on trends from the 2025/2026 session, where the general university cut-off stands at 150, expectations point to similar figures. Departmental cut-offs for Performing Arts, however, tend to range higher, often between 180 and 200, to filter competitive applicants. This guide explores these marks, preparation strategies, and more to help aspirants navigate the process.
Understanding cut-off marks is vital. The general JAMB score qualifies candidates for Post-UTME screenings, where universities set specific thresholds. For Performing Arts, a blend of artistic talent and academic scores matters. High demand in creative fields pushes cut-offs up, especially in prestigious federal universities.
What is JAMB Cut-Off Mark?
JAMB cut-off mark represents the lowest UTME score allowing candidates to proceed to the next admission stage. It applies nationally but institutions adjust for departments. For universities, it starts at a benchmark like 150, while polytechnics and colleges use 100 to 140.
In Performing Arts, the mark reflects course competitiveness. Theatre Arts, a common variant, requires scores aligning with arts faculties. JAMB sets no course-specific nationals; universities decide based on merit, catchment areas, and educationally less developed states (ELDS) concessions.
For 2026/2027, anticipate a general university mark of 150 or slight adjustments. Performing Arts aspirants should target 180 plus to stay safe, as aggregates from UTME (50 percent), Post-UTME (30 percent), and O-levels (20 percent) determine final selection.
General JAMB Cut-Off for 2026/2027
Projections for 2026/2027 draw from prior sessions. In 2025/2026, JAMB fixed 150 for universities, 140 for nursing colleges, and 100 for polytechnics and education colleges. This shift from previous 140 aimed to broaden access amid economic factors.
For Performing Arts, no isolated general mark exists, but arts courses follow university benchmarks. Federal institutions like University of Ibadan demand 200 for Theatre Arts, while state ones like Kwara State University accept 180. Private universities often stick to 180.
Changes could arise from policy meetings considering exam difficulty and candidate performance. If inflation or education reforms occur, marks might rise to uphold quality. Aspirants must monitor JAMB’s official channels for updates in 2026.
Specific Cut-Off for Performing Arts
Performing Arts cut-offs emphasize creativity alongside scores. The minimum UTME often hits 160 to 180 across federal and state universities for Theatre Arts equivalents.
In 2025/2026 guidelines:
- Federal universities: 160 baseline, but departmental like 180 to 200.
- State universities: 170 to 190.
- Private: 180 uniform.
For related programs:
- Theatre and Film Studies: 180 to 200 (e.g., University of Nigeria at 200).
- Theatre and Media Studies: 180 (e.g., Adekunle Ajasin University).
Post-UTME aggregates add layers. University of Ibadan uses 55.75 merit for Theatre Arts, converting UTME 200 plus to qualify. Delta State University sets 170 aggregate.
For 2026/2027, expect stability unless announced otherwise. Aim above 200 for top schools to compete.
Factors Affecting Cut-Off Marks
Several elements shape cut-offs:
- Applicant Volume: High interest raises bars.
- Institutional Type: Federal schools are stricter due to prestige.
- Performance Trends: Strong UTME cohorts increase marks.
- Quota Systems: Merit (45 percent), catchment (35 percent), ELDS (20 percent) influence.
- Program Popularity: Performing Arts grows with entertainment industry boom.
- Economic Factors: Access policies may lower benchmarks.
State origins help via catchment, reducing effective cut-offs by 10 to 20 points for locals.
University-Specific Cut-Off Marks
Universities set individual marks. Below is a table of sample institutions offering Performing Arts or equivalents, based on 2025/2026 data (likely similar for 2026/2027).
| University | Program | JAMB Cut-Off Mark | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Ibadan | Theatre Arts | 200 | Merit aggregate 55.75 |
| University of Nigeria | Theatre and Film Studies | 200 | Competitive federal |
| University of Lagos | Theatre Arts | 140 general, dept 180+ | Post-UTME required |
| University of Ilorin | Performing Arts | 180 | State advantages apply |
| Nnamdi Azikiwe University | Theatre Arts | 180 | Arts faculty baseline |
| University of Port Harcourt | Theatre and Film Studies | 180 | Aggregate focused |
| Delta State University | Theatre Arts | 170 aggregate | Includes O-levels |
| Kwara State University | Performing Arts | 180 | Private-like flexibility |
| Afe Babalola University | Theatre Arts | 180 | Private, swift process |
| Bowen University | Theatre Arts | 180 | Christian ethos |
| University of Calabar | Theatre Arts | 180 | Southern catchment |
| Nasarawa State University | Theatre Arts | 180 | Northern ELDS benefits |
| Plateau State University | Theatre Arts | 180 | Merit-based |
| Redeemer’s University | Theatre Arts | 180 | Private faith-based |
| Elizade University | Performance and Film Arts | 180 | Modern curriculum |
| University of Jos | Theatre and Film Studies | 180 | Arts emphasis |
| Adekunle Ajasin University | Theatre and Media Studies | 180 | Media integration |
| Benue State University | Theatre Arts | 180 | State university |
| Igbinedion University | Theatre Arts | 180 | Private pioneer |
| Akwa Ibom State University | Performing Arts | 180 | Regional focus |
This table covers major offerings; check institution portals for updates.
How to Meet the Requirements
To secure admission:
- Score High in UTME: Target 220 plus for buffer.
- Choose Subjects: Use English, Literature-in-English, Government/CRS, and one arts subject.
- Excel in O-Levels: Credits in English, Literature, and three others (one sitting preferred).
- Prepare for Post-UTME: Practice aptitude and subject tests.
- Apply Change of Course: If short, switch institutions.
- Leverage Quotas: Claim catchment or ELDS if eligible.
Auditions may apply for Performing Arts, showcasing talent in acting or dance.
Preparation Tips
Build a study plan:
- English: Master comprehension and vocabulary.
- Literature: Study dramas, poems, and prose (e.g., Shakespeare, Soyinka).
- Electives: Focus on history or government for context.
- Mock Exams: Use past questions.
- Time Management: Allocate 6 months pre-exam.
- Health Balance: Exercise and rest.
- Resources: JAMB syllabus, textbooks like “Essential Literature.”
- Coaching: Join tutorial centers for arts.
Aim beyond cut-offs; top scores open scholarships.
READ ALSO: JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Biochemistry 2026/2027
FAQs
What is the expected general JAMB cut-off for universities in 2026/2027?
Around 150, per recent trends, but confirm post-policy meeting.
Is Performing Arts the same as Theatre Arts?
Similar; Performing includes broader elements like dance, while Theatre focuses on stage.
Can I gain admission with 170 in a federal university?
Possible in less competitive ones, but 180 plus boosts chances.
What if I miss the cut-off?
Change to polytechnics (100 plus) or private with lower thresholds.
Are there scholarships for Performing Arts students?
Yes, via government, NGOs, or university talent programs.
How does Post-UTME affect admission?
It forms 30 to 50 percent of aggregate; strong performance compensates lower UTME.
What subjects are mandatory for JAMB?
English compulsory; add Literature and two arts/social sciences.
Does age matter?
Minimum 16 years for UTME.
Can direct entry skip UTME?
Yes, with A-levels or diplomas, but meet departmental marks.
Is Performing Arts competitive?
Moderately; creativity sets it apart from sciences.
