The 2026 admission season is gradually taking shape following the latest policy meeting involving the <entity>Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board</entity> (JAMB) and heads of tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
During the meeting, universities across the country announced their approved minimum UTME cut-off marks for the 2026 admission exercise. These scores will serve as the baseline for candidates seeking admission into various institutions.
While meeting the cut-off mark does not automatically guarantee admission, it gives candidates the opportunity to participate in Post-UTME screenings and other admission processes.
Here is a breakdown of institutions based on their approved cut-off marks.
Universities with 220 Cut-Off Mark
Only one institution announced 220 as its minimum benchmark:
Pan-Atlantic University
This places the institution among the most competitive universities for the 2026 admission exercise.
Universities with 200 Cut-Off Mark
The following institutions fixed their minimum score at 200:
Air Force Institute of Technology
Covenant University
Federal University of Medicine and Medical Sciences
Obafemi Awolowo University
University of Benin
University of Ibadan
University of Lagos
University of Nigeria
These institutions are traditionally among the most sought-after universities in Nigeria.
Universities with 195 Cut-Off Mark
Lagos State University of Science and Technology
Lagos State University
Universities with 185 Cut-Off Mark
Lagos State University of Education
Universities with 180 Cut-Off Mark
Institutions under this category include:
Afe Babalola University
Ahmadu Bello University
University of Ilorin
Universities with 170 Cut-Off Mark
Some notable institutions with 170 benchmark include:
University of Jos
Augustine University
Babcock University
Federal University of Applied Sciences
Federal University, Lafia
Ladoke Akintola University of Technology
Nasarawa State University
Veritas University
Universities with 160 Cut-Off Mark
A large number of federal, state, and private universities fixed their minimum score at 160. Some of them include:
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University
African Aviation and Aerospace University
Bayero University
Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
Imo State University
Kwara State University
Landmark University
Lead City University
Nnamdi Azikiwe University
Olabisi Onabanjo University
Osun State University
Redeemer’s University
Tai Solarin University of Education
University of Ilesa
Many institutions in this category are expected to attract thousands of applicants due to their flexible admission benchmark.
Universities with 150 Cut-Off Mark
Several universities adopted 150 as their minimum score, including:
Adeleke University
Akwa Ibom State University
Alex Ekwueme Federal University
Anchor University
Baze University
Bowen University
Ebonyi State University
Ekiti State University
Nile University of Nigeria
University of Maiduguri
University of Uyo
Usmanu Danfodiyo University
Yobe State University
Universities with 145 Cut-Off Mark
Dominican University
Universities with 140 Cut-Off Mark
Institutions under this category include:
Abdullahi Fodio University of Science and Technology
American University of Nigeria
Arthur Jarvis University
Atiba University
Bingham University
Coal City University
Federal University, Dutsin-Ma
Federal University, Gashua
Hensard University
Important Things Every Candidate Should Know
Before celebrating or worrying about your score, here are a few important things to remember:
1. Cut-Off Marks Are Minimum Scores
Scoring the exact cut-off mark only makes you eligible for consideration. Competitive courses like Medicine, Law, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Engineering usually require far higher scores.
2. Post-UTME Still Matters
Most universities will still conduct screening or Post-UTME exercises. Your O’Level results and aggregate score may also influence admission chances.
3. First Choice Matters
Many institutions prioritize candidates who selected them as first choice during UTME registration.
4. Upload Your O’Level Results
Candidates are advised to upload their WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB results on the JAMB CAPS portal to avoid admission issues.
The 2026 JAMB policy meeting has provided clearer direction for candidates preparing for admission into Nigerian universities. Whether your preferred institution fixed its benchmark at 220, 200, 180, or 140, the key is to stay informed and complete every admission requirement on time.
Candidates should continue monitoring official announcements from their chosen institutions regarding Post-UTME forms, screening dates, and departmental cut-off marks.
The admission process has officially begun, and preparation remains the best strategy for success.

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