JAMB cut-off marks for the 2026/2027 admission year are out, and candidates now have a clearer starting point for admission into universities, polytechnics, Colleges of Nursing, Colleges of Education, and agriculture-related programmes.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board announced the minimum admission scores during its policy meeting held on 11 May. Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa (CON), the Minister of Education, attended the meeting, along with vice-chancellors, rectors, registrars, and other education stakeholders.

JAMB fixed the following scores for the 2026/2027 academic session:

That last line changes the usual path for some candidates. Those seeking admission into Education programmes, including NCE, and Agriculture courses outside Engineering, do not need a UTME score under the new rule stated in the announcement.

What the JAMB Cut-Off Marks Mean for Candidates

A score of 150 gives a candidate the basic JAMB score needed for university admission consideration, but it does not guarantee admission. Schools can still raise their own cut-off marks based on course demand, available spaces, and their internal admission rules.

The same applies to Colleges of Nursing and polytechnics. A candidate may meet the JAMB minimum score and still need to pass the school’s screening or Post-UTME process.

For candidates aiming at NCE or Agriculture programmes covered by the exemption, the message is simple: UTME no longer stands as the entry score requirement for those listed routes. Schools will give their own admission details when they announce their forms.

Post-UTME Forms and Screening Dates

Public tertiary schools are expected to start announcing Post-UTME sales forms and screening dates after the release of the JAMB cut-off marks. Candidates should check updates from their school of choice often, since each school controls its own timeline.

Preparation should start early. Many candidates wait until forms are out before reading, then rush through past questions with little time left; a better plan starts once JAMB releases the minimum scores.