Top 10 Nigerian Universities That Consider Low JAMB Scores (160–180)

Scoring between 160 and 180 in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) may feel discouraging, but many reputable Nigerian universities offer admission opportunities for students within this score range. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) sets the minimum university cutoff at 140, allowing several federal, state, and private institutions to accept lower scores for various programs. Below is a curated list of 10 Nigerian universities known for accepting JAMB scores between 160 and 180, along with insights into their programs and admission processes.

Top 10 Nigerian Universities That Consider Low JAMB Scores (160–180)

1. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

• Location: Ilorin, Kwara State

• Minimum JAMB Score: 180

• Overview: Known for its fast academic calendar and large student intake, UNILORIN admits around 12,000 students annually. It’s a top choice for candidates with lower JAMB scores due to its consistent 180 cutoff for many courses.

• Courses Available: Estate Management, Education, Criminology, Urban and Regional Planning, Islamic/Christian Studies, Yoruba, Comparative Studies, Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Geography.

• Why Choose UNILORIN?: Its diverse programs and stable academic schedule make it a reliable option for students seeking quality education with a 180 JAMB score.

2. Nigerian Police Academy (POLAC)

• Location: Wudil, Kano State

• Minimum JAMB Score: 180

• Overview: POLAC combines academic rigor with physical training, ideal for students interested in law enforcement careers. It maintains a 180 cutoff across all programs.

• Courses Available: Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Forensic Science, English, History, Linguistics, Accounting, Sociology, Psychology.

• Why Choose POLAC?: Offers unique career-focused training alongside academics, appealing to students with a 180 score aiming for a disciplined profession.

3. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)

• Location: Akure, Ondo State

• Minimum JAMB Score: 180

• Overview: FUTA is a leading technology-focused institution that welcomes candidates with a minimum JAMB score of 180, particularly for less competitive courses.

• Courses Available: Life Sciences, Social Sciences, Arts, Agriculture.

• Why Choose FUTA?: Its reputation for innovation and high admission rates for candidates with 180 makes it a strong option for tech-oriented students.

4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria

• Location: Zaria, Kaduna State

• Minimum JAMB Score: 180

• Overview: ABU is one of Nigeria’s premier universities, offering a wide range of programs with a 180 cutoff, making it accessible for students with lower scores.

• Courses Available: Agricultural Science, Humanities, Sciences, Economics, Geography, Political Science.

• Why Choose ABU?: Its academic prestige and diverse course offerings provide opportunities for students scoring 180 to pursue quality education.

5. University of Calabar (UNICAL)

• Location: Calabar, Cross River State

• Minimum JAMB Score: 180

• Overview: UNICAL is known for its diversity and flexible cutoffs, typically ranging from 180 to 190, depending on the course.

• Courses Available: Arts, Social Sciences, Education, Law.

• Why Choose UNICAL?: Its accommodating admission policies and vibrant academic environment make it suitable for students with scores in this range.

6. Bayero University Kano (BUK)

• Location: Kano, Kano State

• Minimum JAMB Score: 160

• Overview: BUK is a prominent northern university with a focus on research and innovation, accepting scores as low as 160 for certain programs.

• Courses Available: Agriculture, Radiography, Physiotherapy, Arts, Humanities.

• Why Choose BUK?: Its low cutoff and research-driven programs make it an excellent choice for students with scores as low as 160.

7. University of Uyo (UNIUYO)

• Location: Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

• Minimum JAMB Score: 180

• Overview: UNIUYO offers flexible admission rules and a variety of programs, accepting scores around 180.

• Courses Available: Social Sciences, Arts, Petroleum Engineering, Architecture, Pharmacy, Sciences.

• Why Choose UNIUYO?: Its diverse academic offerings and lenient admission criteria appeal to students with 180 scores.

8. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)

• Location: Maiduguri, Borno State

• Minimum JAMB Score: 180

• Overview: UNIMAID is known for affordable tuition and a diverse student body, with cutoffs ranging from 180 to 190.

• Courses Available: Social Sciences, Arts, Pharmacy, Sciences, Veterinary Medicine.

• Why Choose UNIMAID?: Its affordability and range of programs make it a practical choice for students with lower JAMB scores.

9. Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)

• Location: Owerri, Imo State

• Minimum JAMB Score: 180

• Overview: FUTO, a technology-focused institution, accepts a minimum JAMB score of 180 for various programs.

• Courses Available: Engineering, Sciences, Arts, Social Sciences, ICT.

• Why Choose FUTO?: Its emphasis on technology and innovation suits students interested in STEM fields with a 180 score.

10. Federal University Lafia (FULAFIA)

• Location: Lafia, Nasarawa State

• Minimum JAMB Score: 170–180

• Overview: FULAFIA, a newer federal university, has a growing reputation and accepts scores between 170 and 180 for many courses.

• Courses Available: Sciences, Engineering, Social Sciences.

• Why Choose FULAFIA?: Its emerging academic excellence and flexible cutoffs make it a viable option for students in this score range.

How to Apply for Admission

To secure admission into these universities with a JAMB score of 160–180, follow these steps:

1. Visit the University’s Admission Portal: Check the official website of your chosen institution for admission requirements.

2. Confirm Eligibility: Ensure your JAMB score meets the minimum cutoff and verify departmental requirements.

3. Register for Post-UTME/Screening: Complete the Post-UTME or screening form online, paying any required fees.

4. Upload Documents: Submit your UTME result, O’Level results, and passport photograph.

5. Prepare for Screening: Some universities conduct Post-UTME exams, while others use online screening based on JAMB and O’Level results.

6. Monitor Admission Status: Check the university’s portal or JAMB CAPS for updates on your admission status.

Tips for Success

• Research Departmental Cutoffs: Some courses may have higher cutoffs than the university’s general minimum.

• Consider Less Competitive Courses: Programs like Education, Arts, and Social Sciences often have lower cutoffs.

• Explore Change of Course/Institution: If your score is slightly below the cutoff, JAMB’s change of course or institution option can help you target more accessible programs or schools.

• Prepare for Post-UTME: A strong Post-UTME performance can boost your chances, as many universities combine JAMB and Post-UTME scores.

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FAQs

What is the JAMB minimum cutoff mark for 2025?

The JAMB minimum cutoff for universities in 2025 is 140, but individual institutions may set higher cutoffs.

Can I gain admission with a JAMB score of 160?

Yes, universities like Bayero University Kano (BUK) and several state universities accept scores as low as 160 for certain courses.

Do I need to write Post-UTME with a low JAMB score?

Most universities require a Post-UTME or screening process, even for low scores. Performing well in this can improve your admission chances.

Can I study Medicine or Nursing with a 180 JAMB score?

Some universities, like UNIMAID and UNIUYO, may accept 180 for Medicine or Nursing, but competition is high, and a strong Post-UTME score is crucial.

What courses can I study with a 180 JAMB score?

You can study courses like Chemistry, Physics, Education, Social Sciences, Arts, and Agriculture in universities with 180 cutoffs.