Universities That Accept Low JAMB Score in Nigeria:
Scoring low in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination can be discouraging, especially when you are aiming for admission into a Nigerian university. Many candidates believe that once their score is below 180, their chances of getting into a university are gone. However, this is not entirely true.
There are several universities in Nigeria that accept low JAMB scores, particularly state and private institutions. With the right information and strategy, you can still secure admission and continue your academic journey.
In this NSP Media guide, we will explore universities that accept low JAMB scores, what options are available, and how you can improve your chances of gaining admission.
What Is Considered a Low JAMB Score?
Before discussing the universities, it is important to understand what qualifies as a low JAMB score.
Generally:
180 and above is Competitive for many universities
150–179: Moderate chances depending on the course and institution
140–149: Low, but still accepted by some schools
120–139: Very low, mostly accepted by private institutions and polytechnics
While federal universities usually have higher cut off marks, many state and private universities are more flexible.
Do Universities Really Accept Low JAMB Scores?
Yes, some universities accept low JAMB scores. However, it depends on several factors:
🎓The institution admission policy
🎓The course you choose
🎓Your performance in post-UTME
Some universities set their cut off marks as low as 140 or even 120, especially for less competitive courses.
Federal Universities That Accept Low JAMB Score
Most federal universities in Nigeria are highly competitive and typically require a minimum of 160–180. However, some may accept lower scores for less competitive courses.
Examples include:
- Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK)
- Federal University Gusau (FUGUS)
- Federal University Dutse (FUD)
These schools may consider candidates with lower scores for courses like Education, Agriculture, or Arts.
State Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores
State universities are generally more flexible than federal universities. Many accept scores starting from 140 or 150, depending on the course.
Some examples include:
🎓Ekiti State University (EKSU)
EKSU is known to accept candidates with scores around 140–150 for certain courses.
🎓 Kaduna State University (KASU)
KASU offers admission opportunities for candidates with moderate to low scores, especially in less competitive departments.
🎓 Benue State University (BSU)
BSU accepts candidates with relatively low scores, particularly for arts and education courses.
🎓 Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT)
ESUT is another state university where candidates with scores around 150 may be considered.
🎓 Niger Delta University (NDU)
NDU provides opportunities for candidates with lower scores, depending on the course.
Private Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores
Private universities are the most flexible when it comes to JAMB scores. Many accept scores as low as 120 or 140, and some may even offer admission without JAMB under certain conditions.
Examples include:
🎓 Bowen University
Bowen University accepts candidates with lower JAMB scores and focuses more on overall performance.
🎓 Babcock University
Babcock offers admission opportunities for candidates with moderate scores and provides alternative entry options.
🎓 Igbinedion University
This university is known for accepting lower JAMB scores and offering a wide range of courses.
🎓 Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
ABUAD provides flexible admission options and considers candidates with lower scores.
🎓 Lead City University
Lead City University accepts candidates with low scores and offers various programs.
Universities That Accept 140 JAMB Score
If your score is around 140, you still have good chances in several institutions, especially state and private universities.
Apply for less competitive courses
Consider state universities with flexible cutoffs
Explore private university options
Universities That Accept 120 JAMB Score
Candidates with scores around 120 have fewer options but can still gain admission.
Your best options include:
Private universities
Colleges of education
Pre-degree or foundation programs
Some private universities may admit you directly, while others may require additional screening.
Best Courses to Choose With Low JAMB Score
Choosing the right course is just as important as choosing the right school.
Less competitive courses include:
Education courses
Agricultural Science
Sociology
Religious Studies
Home Economics
Avoid highly competitive courses like Medicine, Law, and Pharmacy if your score is low.
Tips to Increase Your Admission Chances
Even with a low JAMB score, you can improve your chances by following these strategies:
1. Apply for Less Competitive Courses
Switching to a less competitive course increases your chances of admission.
2. Consider Changing Institution
If your chosen school is too competitive, consider switching to a less competitive one.
3. Perform Well in Post-UTME
A high post-UTME score can boost your overall aggregate and improve your chances.
4. Use JAMB Change of Course/Institution
Take advantage of this option to make better choices after seeing your result.
5. Apply to Multiple Schools
Having multiple options increases your chances of getting admitted.
Alternative Options If You Don’t Get Admission
If you are unable to gain admission with your current score, consider these alternatives:
1. Pre-Degree Programs
These programs prepare you for admission in the next academic session.
2. JUPEB or IJMB Programs
These allow you to gain direct entry into 200 level without writing JAMB again.
3. Polytechnics
Polytechnics offer practical education and accept lower scores.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When dealing with a low JAMB score, avoid these mistakes:
🎓Refusing to change your course
🎓Applying only to highly competitive schools
🎓Ignoring private universities
🎓Falling for admission scams
Being flexible and informed is key to success.
You can read also:
- Schools That Don’t Require JAMB in Nigeria
- Benefits of JAMB 2026 Mock Exam Explained
- JAMB Cut Off Marks 2026/2027 for All Universities in Nigeria
Conclusion
A low JAMB score is not the end of your academic journey. There are many universities in Nigeria especially state and private institutions that accept low scores and provide quality education.
The most important thing is to make smart decisions, choose the right course, and explore all available options. With determination and the right strategy, you can still achieve your academic goals.
Remember, success is not defined by where you start, but by how you make use of the opportunities available to you.
Author Note
This article was written by the editorial team of Nigerian Student Portal (NSP Media) to help Nigerian students find accurate information. We regularly update our content based on official announcements from institutions and examination bodies.