Universities That Accept 140, 160, and 170 Cut-Off Marks in Nigeria (2026/2027)

Every year, thousands of Nigerian students anxiously await admission into universities.

The stress often comes from JAMB UTME scores, as students wonder which universities they can gain admission into based on their marks. Some students score below 180, and many believe their dreams are over.

The truth is, Nigeria has several universities that accept lower JAMB scores, especially private institutions and some state universities.

In 2026/2027, JAMB has approved universities to set their own minimum cut-off marks, which means you can gain admission with a score as low as 140, 160, or 170, depending on the institution and course.

This guide provides a detailed overview of these universities, helping students make informed decisions.

Understanding JAMB Cut-Off Marks

A cut-off mark is the minimum UTME score a university considers for admission screening. It is important to note that:

• Meeting the minimum cut-off does not guarantee admission.

• Universities also consider Post-UTME scores, O’Level results, and course competitiveness.

• Some courses like Medicine, Law, and Engineering have higher internal cut-offs, even in universities accepting 140–170 UTME scores.

Understanding cut-off marks helps students target the right schools and avoid wasting time on universities where their scores are too low.

Check Also: How to Win Scholarships With WAEC or JAMB Results (Full Guide)

Schools That Accept 140 Cut-Off Marks

A JAMB score of 140 is considered low but not useless. Several universities consider candidates with 140 and above for less competitive programmes.

Federal and State Universities

Some state and federal universities allow candidates with 140 marks in courses like education, arts, social sciences, and management. Examples include:

• Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU)

• Adamawa State University (ADSU), Mubi

• Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA), Akungba

• Akwa Ibom State University of Technology (AKUTECH)

• Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma

• Delta State University, Abraka (DELSU)

• Ebonyi State University (EBSU)

• Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT)

These universities often combine UTME scores with Post-UTME results and WAEC/NECO results to select candidates.

Private Universities

Private universities are generally more flexible with low JAMB scores. Many accept 140 marks for less competitive courses. Examples:

• Achievers University, Owo

• Adeleke University, Ede

• Caleb University, Imota

• Caritas University, Amorji-Nike

• Fountain University, Osogbo

• Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo

• Veritas University, Abuja

Most of these universities require candidates to sit for internal screening exams or Post-UTME, which can improve admission chances regardless of low UTME scores.

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Schools That Accept 160 Cut-Off Marks

A score of 160 is considered moderate. With 160, students have more options for courses and universities.

Federal Universities

Universities with approximate 160 cut-offs include:

• Federal University, Dutse (FUD)

• Federal University, Otuoke (FUOTUOKE)

• Federal University, Lokoja (FULOKOJA)

• Federal University, Ndufu-Alike (FUNAI)

• Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE)

These universities use a combination of UTME score, Post-UTME, and O’Level performance to determine final admission.

State Universities

State universities also accept 160 scores for many courses:

• Ekiti State University (EKSU)

• Gombe State University (GSU)

• Enugu State University of Science & Technology (ESUT)

Private Universities

Several private universities set 160 as their minimum cut-off:

• American University of Nigeria (AUN)

• Baze University

• Covenant University

• Lead City University

• Nile University of Nigeria

Candidates with 160 scores can increase their chances with strong Post-UTME performance and excellent WAEC results.

Schools That Accept 170 Cut-Off Marks

A score of 170 is safer and opens doors to more competitive courses, except the highly competitive ones like Medicine or Law.

Federal Universities

Examples include:

• Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi

• Federal University, Kashere

• Federal University, Lafia (FULAFIA)

State Universities

• Delta State University, Abraka (DELSU)

• Kaduna State University (KASU)

• Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED)

• Plateau State University (PLASU)

Private Universities

Private universities with 170 cut-off marks include:

• Babcock University

• Renaissance University, Ojiagu-Agbani

• Samuel Adegboyega University, Ogwa

• Summit University, Offa

• Tansian University, Umunya

• University of Mkar, Mkar

With 170, candidates can compete for mid-level courses while still being considered for top private universities.

Tips for Students with 140–170 UTME Scores

1. Check Official School Portals

Universities update their cut-offs every session. Always verify the latest requirements on the school’s official portal or JAMB portal.

2. Focus on Less Competitive Courses

If your score is 140–160, consider arts, education, social sciences, or management courses. These are more likely to accept lower UTME scores.

3. Prepare for Post-UTME or Screening Exams

Universities often weight Post-UTME scores heavily, especially if your UTME score is below 180. Preparing well can significantly boost your admission chances.

4. Keep Your O’Level Results Ready

Strong WAEC or NECO results can compensate for low UTME scores. Ensure you have at least 5 credits including English and Mathematics.

5. Avoid Scams

Some agents may promise admission with low UTME scores. Only use official school channels.

Key Takeaways

• A score of 140 is low but still usable for less competitive courses, mostly in private or state universities.

• 160 opens doors to moderate courses in federal, state, and private universities.

• 170 is generally safe for mid-level courses and some competitive programmes.

• Medicine, Law, and Engineering still require higher scores, usually 200+.

• Always combine UTME, Post-UTME, and O’Level results to maximize your chances.

Final Advice

Your JAMB score does not have to end your university dreams. With careful planning, you can still gain admission into reputable Nigerian universities with scores between 140 and 170.

By following these steps, even students with low or moderate UTME scores can secure admission in 2026/2027 and start their journey toward higher education success in Nigeria.