Universities Across Nigeria Lower Admission Cut-Offs After Poor 2025 JAMB Results
In response to the significant decline in candidates’ performance in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), several Nigerian universities have adjusted their admission cut-off marks to accommodate a broader range of applicants.
JAMB’s Revised Minimum Cut-Off Marks
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has set the minimum cut-off marks for the 2025 admission cycle as follows:
- Universities: 140
- Polytechnics and Colleges of Education: 100
These benchmarks serve as the baseline, allowing institutions the autonomy to set higher thresholds based on their specific admission criteria.
Factors Influencing the Adjustment
The decision to lower cut-off marks stems from the alarming statistics of the 2025 UTME results. Out of approximately 1.5 million candidates, over 50% scored below 200. Notably, only 4,756 candidates achieved scores of 320 and above, while 12,414 scored 300 and above.
Educational experts attribute this underperformance to various factors, including inadequate preparation, lack of seriousness among candidates, and insufficient parental guidance. Dr. Babangida Sa’idu from Usmanu Danfodiyo University highlighted that many candidates neglect their studies and are often distracted during examination periods.
Universities Embracing Lower Cut-Off Marks
In light of these developments, several universities have adjusted their cut-off marks to provide opportunities for more candidates:
- Federal University, Dutse (FUD): Accepts candidates with JAMB scores as low as 140.
- Kebbi State University of Science and Technology (KSUSTA): Cut-off mark set at 140.
- Sokoto State University (SSU): Admits students with scores starting from 140.
- Taraba State University (TSU): Cut-off mark established at 140.
- Adamawa State University (ADSU): Considers candidates with a minimum score of 140.
- Bauchi State University (BASU): Accepts scores from 140 upwards.
- Ondo State University of Science and Technology (OSUSTECH): Set its cut-off mark at 150.
These adjustments aim to ensure that a larger pool of candidates can access tertiary education despite the overall decline in UTME performance.
Ongoing Debates and Concerns
While the reduction in cut-off marks is seen as a necessary step to accommodate more students, it has sparked debates among educators and stakeholders. Some lecturers argue that lowering standards may compromise the quality of education and academic excellence.
Conversely, proponents believe that this approach provides a second chance for students who may have underperformed due to various challenges, emphasizing the need for support systems to help them succeed in their academic pursuits.
Conclusion
The adjustment of cut-off marks by Nigerian universities reflects a responsive approach to the current educational landscape, aiming to balance inclusivity with academic standards. As institutions navigate these changes, continuous evaluation and support will be crucial to ensure that the quality of education remains uncompromised.
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