Federal Universities in Nigeria and Their Cut-Off Marks for 2025/2026
Federal Universities in Nigeria and Their Cut-Off Marks for 2025/2026
Introduction
Gaining admission into a federal university in Nigeria requires meeting specific cut-off marks set by each institution. These benchmarks serve as a standard to ensure that only candidates who meet the academic requirements are considered for admission. For the 2025/2026 academic session, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has set a minimum cut-off mark of 140 for universities. However, individual universities have the autonomy to set higher cut-off marks based on the competitiveness of their programs and other institutional criteria.
This article provides an extensive list of federal universities in Nigeria along with their respective cut-off marks for the 2025/2026 academic session. Additionally, it includes testimonies from students who have navigated the admission process and a section addressing frequently asked questions to assist prospective students in their application journey.
Understanding Cut-Off Marks
Before delving into the specific cut-off marks of various federal universities, it’s essential to understand what a cut-off mark represents. A cut-off mark is the minimum score a candidate must achieve in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to be eligible for admission into a particular institution. Meeting this score does not guarantee admission but qualifies the candidate to proceed to the next stages of the admission process, which may include post-UTME screenings and other assessments.
List of Federal Universities and Their Cut-Off Marks for 2025/2026
Below is a comprehensive list of federal universities in Nigeria along with their respective cut-off marks for the 2025/2026 academic session:
| University Name | Cut-Off Mark |
|---|---|
| Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi (ATBU) | 170 |
| Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (ABU) | 180 |
| Bayero University, Kano (BUK) | 180 |
| Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE) | 170 |
| Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) | 180 |
| Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMinna) | 150 |
| Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) | 160 |
| Federal University, Dutse, Jigawa State (FUD) | 150 |
| Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, Katsina (FUDutsinma) | 140 |
| Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State (FUKashere) | 150 |
| Federal University, Lafia, Nasarawa State (FULafia) | 170 |
| Federal University, Lokoja, Kogi State (FULokoja) | 140 |
| Alex Ekwueme University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State (FUNAI) | 150 |
| Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa (FUOtuoke) | 140 |
| Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State (FUOYE) | 150 |
| Federal University, Wukari, Taraba State (FUWukari) | 150 |
| Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) | 140 |
| Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola (MAUTECH) | 140 |
| National Open University of Nigeria, Lagos (NOUN) | 140 |
| Nigeria Police Academy, Wudil | 180 |
| Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna (NDA) | 180 |
| Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (UNIZIK) | 180 |
| Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (OAU) | 200 |
| University of Abuja, Gwagwalada (UNIABUJA) | 180 |
| Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) | 140 |
| University of Agriculture, Makurdi (FUAM) | 140 |
| University of Benin (UNIBEN) | 200 |
| University of Calabar (UNICAL) | 150 |
| University of Ibadan (UI) | 200 |
| University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) | 180 |
| University of Jos (UNIJOS) | 180 |
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | 200 |
| University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) | 150 |
| University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | 200 |
| University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) | 150 |
| University of Uyo (UNIUYO) | 150 |
| Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUSOK) | 140 |
| Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Delta State | 140 |
| Air Force Institute of Technology, Kaduna (AFIT) | 140 |
| Nigerian Army University, Biu | 140 |
| Federal University of Health Technology, Otukpo, Benue State | 140 |
| Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru, Kebbi State | 140 |
| Federal University of Technology, Babura, Jigawa State | 140 |
| Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State | 140 |
| Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare, Bauchi State | 140 |
| Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila Orangun, Osun State | 140 |
Please note that these cut-off marks are subject to change. It’s advisable to consult the official websites of the respective universities or contact their admissions offices for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Federal Universities in Nigeria and Their Cut-Off Marks for 2025/2026
Success Stories: Testimonies from Students
Navigating the admission process can be challenging, but many students have successfully gained admission into their desired federal universities. Here are some testimonies:
1. Oluwaseun Adeyemi – University of Ibadan (UI)
“I was initially anxious about meeting the cut-off mark for UI, especially since it’s one of the top universities in Nigeria. However, with dedicated preparation and understanding the requirements, I scored above the 200 cut-off mark and secured admission into the Faculty of Law. My advice to prospective students is to focus on their studies and stay informed about the admission criteria.”
2. Fatima Mohammed – Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
*”Applying to ABU was a dream come true. Knowing that the cut-off mark was 180, I set that as my target and worked diligently towards it. Achieving a score above the cut-off gave me confidence during the post-UTME screening. Today, I’m proud to be a student of Mass Communication at ABU.”
3. Emeka Okafor – Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
“When I checked the cut-off mark for UNIZIK and saw that it was 180, I knew I had to put in extra effort. I dedicated myself to studying past questions and attending tutorials. I ended up scoring 210 in my UTME, which made me eligible for the post-UTME screening. Today, I’m a Computer Science student at UNIZIK, and I encourage every aspiring student to stay focused and never give up.”
4. Hauwa Abubakar – University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
“Many people discouraged me from applying to UNIMAID due to the challenges in the region, but I was determined. I scored 170 in my UTME, which met the university’s cut-off mark. The admission process was transparent, and today, I am studying Political Science at UNIMAID. If you are determined, you can achieve your goal regardless of obstacles.”
5. Blessing Ojo – Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
“Getting into FUTA was not easy because of its strong reputation in science and technology courses. I had to score above the 180 cut-off mark, and after putting in hard work, I succeeded. The post-UTME was also competitive, but I made it through. My advice is that preparation is key—read, practice past questions, and stay updated with admission requirements.”
6. Abdulrahman Sani – Bayero University, Kano (BUK)
“I applied for admission at BUK to study Medicine. Knowing that the university had a high cut-off mark for my course, I worked hard and exceeded the 180 cut-off mark. Although Medicine required a much higher score, I was eventually admitted into Biochemistry, which I plan to use as a stepping stone. If you don’t get your first choice, there are always other options.”
7. Chioma Nweke – University of Lagos (UNILAG)
“Getting into UNILAG was highly competitive, as the university set a 200 cut-off mark for most courses. I aimed for 250+ in my UTME and exceeded my target. The post-UTME was also tough, but with proper preparation, I secured admission into the Faculty of Business Administration. If you want to get into a highly competitive university, set a high target for yourself.”
Federal Universities in Nigeria and Their Cut-Off Marks for 2025/2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the general JAMB cut-off mark for Nigerian universities in 2025/2026?
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has set a general cut-off mark of 140 for universities, but individual universities may have higher cut-off marks depending on the competitiveness of their programs.
2. Does meeting the cut-off mark guarantee admission?
No, meeting the cut-off mark only makes you eligible for further screening processes such as post-UTME and departmental screenings. Admission is based on merit, available slots, and the candidate’s performance in all required assessments.
3. Can I get admission if my score is below the university’s cut-off mark?
It is unlikely, but some universities may consider candidates with lower scores for less competitive courses or through supplementary admission lists. It is best to aim for a score higher than the stated cut-off mark.
4. Do all universities conduct post-UTME screening?
Not all universities conduct post-UTME exams. Some institutions rely on JAMB scores and O’level results, while others conduct online or physical screening. Always check the university’s admission requirements.
5. What should I do if I do not meet the cut-off mark?
If you do not meet the cut-off mark for your preferred university, you can:
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Consider applying for a less competitive course within the same university.
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Apply for a change of institution to a university with a lower cut-off mark.
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Prepare and retake the UTME in the next admission cycle.
6. Are there federal universities that accept 140 as a cut-off mark?
Yes, some federal universities accept 140 as their cut-off mark for less competitive courses. Examples include Federal University, Otuoke; Federal University, Lokoja; and Federal University, Kashere. However, specific departments may have higher requirements.
7. Can I apply for multiple federal universities at the same time?
No, JAMB allows candidates to choose only one federal university as their first choice. However, you can change your institution after UTME results are released if necessary.
8. How do I prepare effectively for post-UTME screening?
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Study past post-UTME questions for your chosen university.
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Focus on your UTME subjects as most universities test similar topics.
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Stay updated with official announcements from the university.
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Attend tutorials or online preparatory classes if available.
9. What happens if I pass my post-UTME but still do not get admitted?
Admission depends on the number of available slots, departmental cut-off marks, and competition. If you meet all requirements but do not gain admission, you can consider:
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Supplementary admission options.
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A change of course or institution.
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Private universities or polytechnics as alternatives.
10. When will the admission process for 2025/2026 start?
The admission process usually begins a few months after JAMB results are released. It is important to monitor JAMB’s official website and your chosen university’s portal for updates.
Conclusion
Securing admission into a federal university in Nigeria requires careful planning, preparation, and staying informed about the latest cut-off marks and admission processes. While JAMB sets a general minimum score, each university has the authority to determine its own cut-off marks based on competition and institutional policies.
This guide has provided an in-depth look at the cut-off marks for various federal universities, real-life testimonies from successful students, and answers to frequently asked questions. Prospective students should ensure they prepare adequately for UTME, aim for scores above the set benchmarks, and follow the admission process diligently.
If you are an aspiring university student, stay focused, study hard, and keep checking your university’s website for the latest updates. Good luck with your admission journey!
