Last Updated on 4 weeks ago by Haruna Ayuba
JAMB 2026 UTME results have started coming out, the first batch for 632,788 candidates who sat on April 16 was released on April 17, 2026. If your result is out, the next thing you need to know is this: the JAMB minimum cut-off mark for universities in 2026 is 150, while polytechnics and colleges of education require a minimum of 100. However, competitive schools and courses set their own higher thresholds — and that is exactly what this guide covers in full.
- Key Highlights
- About the 2026 JAMB UTME Cut-Off Mark
- Official JAMB Minimum Cut-Off Marks 2026
- JAMB Cut-Off Marks by Course 2026 — All Faculties
- JAMB Cut-Off Marks for Top Federal Universities 2026
- JAMB Cut-Off Marks for Top State Universities 2026
- JAMB Cut-Off Marks for Top Private Universities 2026
- How to Check Your JAMB 2026 UTME Result Right Now
- What Happens After Your JAMB Result?
- Frequently Asked Questions — JAMB Cut-Off Mark 2026
- How These Cut-Off Marks Compare — Score Guide for Candidates
- Source & Verification
- Final Thoughts
Key Highlights
- Results status: First batch released April 17, 2026. Additional batches release progressively as marking continues
- Check your result by SMS: Send
UTMERESULTto 55019 or 66019 (use your registered phone number) - Minimum for universities: 150 (federal, state & private)
- Minimum for polytechnics: 100
- Minimum for colleges of education: 100
- Minimum for nursing colleges: 140
- Medicine & Surgery typical requirement: 250–290+
- Law & Pharmacy typical requirement: 200–220+
- Result printing: Not yet enabled — viewing only at this stage
- JAMB fraud warning: JAMB has arrested two candidates and one parent for result falsification. Do not alter your SMS result in any way
About the 2026 JAMB UTME Cut-Off Mark
The JAMB cut-off mark is the minimum UTME score a candidate must achieve to qualify for admission consideration at any Nigerian tertiary institution. It was set by JAMB and education stakeholders at the annual policy meeting.
Two things every candidate must understand:
- Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission. It only makes you eligible to proceed. Most competitive schools and courses require scores well above the national baseline.
- Every institution sets its own departmental cut-off. JAMB sets the floor; universities set the ceiling.
Official JAMB Minimum Cut-Off Marks 2026
| Institution Type | Minimum JAMB Cut-Off Mark |
|---|---|
| Federal Universities | 150 |
| State Universities | 150 |
| Private Universities | 150 |
| Colleges of Nursing | 140 |
| Federal Polytechnics | 100 |
| State Polytechnics | 100 |
| Private Polytechnics | 100 |
| Federal Colleges of Education | 100 |
| State Colleges of Education | 100 |
Note: The JAMB Registrar, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, has directed that no institution should offer admission to any candidate who scores below the stated cut-off mark. These figures are binding on all accredited institutions.
JAMB Cut-Off Marks by Course 2026 — All Faculties
These are the typical competitive score ranges for each course group. They reflect what students actually need to be shortlisted at most institutions — not just the national minimum.
Faculty of Medical Sciences
| Course | Typical Score Required |
|---|---|
| Medicine & Surgery (MBBS) | 250 – 290+ |
| Dentistry & Dental Surgery | 200 – 260+ |
| Pharmacy | 220 – 260+ |
| Nursing Science | 150 – 200 |
| Medical Laboratory Science | 160 – 200 |
| Physiotherapy | 180 – 220 |
| Radiography | 170 – 200 |
| Anatomy | 160 – 200 |
| Physiology | 160 – 200 |
| Public Health | 150 – 180 |
Faculty of Engineering & Technology
| Course | Typical Score Required |
|---|---|
| Electrical/Electronics Engineering | 200 – 240 |
| Civil Engineering | 200 – 240 |
| Mechanical Engineering | 200 – 240 |
| Chemical Engineering | 200 – 240 |
| Computer Engineering | 200 – 240 |
| Petroleum Engineering | 200 – 250 |
| Agricultural Engineering | 160 – 200 |
| Mechatronics Engineering | 180 – 220 |
Faculty of Law
| Course | Typical Score Required |
|---|---|
| Law (LLB) | 200 – 260+ |
Faculty of Science
| Course | Typical Score Required |
|---|---|
| Computer Science | 180 – 220 |
| Mathematics | 160 – 200 |
| Physics | 160 – 200 |
| Chemistry | 160 – 200 |
| Biology / Biochemistry | 160 – 200 |
| Microbiology | 160 – 190 |
| Statistics | 160 – 200 |
| Geology | 160 – 190 |
Faculty of Social Sciences & Management
| Course | Typical Score Required |
|---|---|
| Economics | 160 – 200 |
| Accounting | 160 – 200 |
| Business Administration | 150 – 190 |
| Mass Communication | 160 – 200 |
| Political Science | 150 – 180 |
| Sociology | 150 – 180 |
| Psychology | 160 – 200 |
| Banking & Finance | 150 – 190 |
Faculty of Arts & Humanities
| Course | Typical Score Required |
|---|---|
| English Language | 160 – 200 |
| History & International Studies | 150 – 180 |
| Linguistics | 150 – 180 |
| Philosophy | 150 – 175 |
| Religious Studies | 140 – 170 |
| Theatre Arts | 150 – 175 |
Faculty of Education
| Course | Typical Score Required |
|---|---|
| Education & Computer Science | 160 – 195 |
| Education & Mathematics | 160 – 195 |
| Education & Biology | 150 – 180 |
| Early Childhood Education | 150 – 170 |
| Library & Information Science | 150 – 165 |
Faculty of Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
| Course | Typical Score Required |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | 150 – 170 |
| Animal Science | 150 – 170 |
| Forestry & Wildlife | 150 – 165 |
| Fisheries | 150 – 165 |
| Environmental Management | 150 – 170 |
Important: These are the typical competitive ranges based on historical admission patterns and institutional standards. Official departmental cut-offs for the 2026/2027 admission session will be confirmed on JAMB CAPS after all results are processed and the admission policy meeting is held. Always verify on your institution’s official portal.
JAMB Cut-Off Marks for Top Federal Universities 2026
| University | State | General Cut-Off | Medicine Cut-Off |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | Lagos | 200+ | 280+ |
| University of Ibadan (UI) | Oyo | 200+ | 280+ |
| Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | Osun | 200+ | 270+ |
| Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) | Kaduna | 160 – 180 | 250+ |
| University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) | Enugu | 180+ | 260+ |
| University of Benin (UNIBEN) | Edo | 180+ | 260+ |
| University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) | FCT | 160 – 180 | 240+ |
| Bayero University Kano (BUK) | Kano | 160 – 180 | 240+ |
| UNIPORT (University of Port Harcourt) | Rivers | 180+ | 250+ |
| University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) | Kwara | 180+ | 260+ |
| Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) | Ondo | 180+ | — |
| Federal University of Technology Minna (FUTMINNA) | Niger | 160+ | — |
| University of Jos (UNIJOS) | Plateau | 160 – 180 | 240+ |
| Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) | Anambra | 170+ | 250+ |
JAMB Cut-Off Marks for Top State Universities 2026
| University | State | General Cut-Off |
|---|---|---|
| Lagos State University (LASU) | Lagos | 160 – 180 |
| Rivers State University (RSU) | Rivers | 150 – 170 |
| Ambrose Alli University (AAU) | Edo | 150 – 170 |
| Delta State University (DELSU) | Delta | 150 – 170 |
| Enugu State University (ESUT) | Enugu | 150 – 170 |
| Anambra State University (ANSU) | Anambra | 150 – 170 |
| Imo State University (IMSU) | Imo | 150 – 170 |
| Osun State University (UNIOSUN) | Osun | 150 – 165 |
| Kano State University of Science and Technology | Kano | 150 – 165 |
JAMB Cut-Off Marks for Top Private Universities 2026
| University | State | General Cut-Off | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Covenant University | Ogun | 180 – 200+ | Highly selective |
| Babcock University | Ogun | 160 – 180 | Faith-based |
| Landmark University | Kwara | 160 – 180 | |
| Redeemer’s University | Osun | 160 – 180 | |
| American University of Nigeria (AUN) | Adamawa | 160+ | |
| Madonna University | Anambra | 150 – 160 | |
| Gregory University | Abia | 150 – 160 | |
| Elizade University | Ekiti | 150 – 160 | |
| Mcpherson University | Ogun | 150 – 160 | |
| Fountain University | Osun | 150 – 160 |
How to Check Your JAMB 2026 UTME Result Right Now
Result checking is currently by SMS only. Result printing is not yet enabled.
By SMS (Fastest Method)
- Use the same phone number you registered during your JAMB exam
- Send the word UTMERESULT (in capitals) as an SMS to 55019 or 66019
- Your result will be sent back to you via SMS within minutes
- Standard SMS charges apply
By JAMB Portal
- Visit www.jamb.gov.ng
- Log in with your email and password
- Navigate to “Check Result” on your dashboard
- Enter your JAMB registration number
⚠️ JAMB Fraud Warning: JAMB has already arrested two candidates and one parent for altering result SMS messages using AI and other electronic means. Do not modify your result in any way — it is a criminal offence. Your real score is stored on JAMB’s servers and cannot be changed from the outside.
What Happens After Your JAMB Result?
| Step | What To Do | When |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Check result | SMS to 55019 / 66019 or JAMB portal | Now |
| 2. Print result slip | JAMB portal (when enabled) | After full release |
| 3. Check cut-off eligibility | Use the tables in this guide | Now |
| 4. Monitor Post-UTME dates | Check your chosen school’s website | April – July 2026 |
| 5. Register for Post-UTME | Apply on your school’s portal | School-specific deadline |
| 6. Check JAMB CAPS | Accept or reject admission offer | August – October 2026 |
| 7. Change institution/course | Via JAMB CAPS (if needed) | After results are fully out |
Frequently Asked Questions — JAMB Cut-Off Mark 2026
What is the JAMB cut-off mark for universities in 2026?
The JAMB minimum cut-off mark for all universities, federal, state, and private in 2026 is 150. However, most competitive universities set their own departmental cut-offs significantly higher. Scoring just 150 is unlikely to secure admission in any high-demand course.
What is the JAMB cut-off mark for medicine in 2026?
Medicine & Surgery is the most competitive course in Nigeria. The typical score required ranges from 250 to 290+, depending on the university. Top schools like UNILAG and UI expect 280 and above. Scoring below 250 makes admission into medicine extremely unlikely regardless of which school you apply to.
My JAMB score is below 150. What can I do?
A score below 150 makes you ineligible for university admission. Your options are: apply to a polytechnic or college of education (minimum score: 100), use the JAMB CAPS portal to change your institution to a polytechnic, or register to resit JAMB in 2027. Do not pay anyone claiming they can upgrade your score — it is a scam.
Does meeting the cut-off mark guarantee admission?
No. Meeting the cut-off only makes you eligible to proceed to Post-UTME and further screening. Final admission depends on your combined JAMB score, Post-UTME score, O’Level results, and the number of available spaces in your department.
When will JAMB release all 2026 UTME results?
JAMB is releasing results in batches as marking is completed. The first batch (Day 1 candidates — April 16) was released on April 17, 2026. Additional batches will follow progressively. Check your result via SMS daily if it is not yet available.
Can I change my JAMB institution or course after seeing my result?
Yes. If your score does not meet the cut-off for your first choice, you can change your institution or course through JAMB CAPS at caps.jamb.gov.ng. The window for changes typically opens a few weeks after all results are released. Watch for the official announcement.
What is the cut-off mark for polytechnics in 2026?
The JAMB minimum cut-off for all polytechnics in Nigeria — federal, state, and private — is 100 for the 2026 admission cycle.
Is my JAMB result enough for me to gain admission?
Your JAMB result is only one part of the admission process. Most universities will also require you to sit and pass a Post-UTME screening, have at least five O’Level credits (including English and Mathematics for most courses), and meet the age requirements. Your final admission offer comes through JAMB CAPS.
How These Cut-Off Marks Compare — Score Guide for Candidates
| Your JAMB Score | Your Realistic Options |
|---|---|
| 280 – 400 | Competitive for any course at any university including Medicine at UNILAG, UI, OAU |
| 250 – 279 | Strong. Eligible for Medicine at most federal universities, Law, Engineering at top schools |
| 220 – 249 | Good. Eligible for Law, Pharmacy, Engineering, Computer Science at most universities |
| 200 – 219 | Solid. Eligible for most courses. Post-UTME performance becomes critical |
| 180 – 199 | Average. Look at state universities and less competitive courses |
| 160 – 179 | Below average for federal universities. Strong chance at state & private universities |
| 150 – 159 | Eligible minimum. Target less competitive courses or private universities |
| 100 – 149 | Not eligible for university. Consider polytechnics and colleges of education |
| Below 100 | Not eligible for any institution. Consider resitting JAMB |
Source & Verification
The information in this guide is sourced from:
- Official JAMB 2026 UTME Result Release Statement — signed by JAMB spokesperson Fabian Benjamin, April 17, 2026
- JAMB 2025 Policy Meeting — the annual stakeholder meeting that set the 2026 minimum cut-off baselines
- JAMB Official Portal — www.jamb.gov.ng
- Institutional cut-off ranges — compiled from university admission portals and historical admission patterns
⚠️ Disclaimer: The institutional and departmental cut-off ranges in this guide are based on historical admission patterns and current JAMB policy. Official departmental cut-offs for the 2026/2027 session will be confirmed by each institution after the admissions policy meeting. Always verify on your institution’s official portal before making decisions.
Final Thoughts
The JAMB 2026 UTME results are out and the admission race has officially begun. The national minimum cut-off is 150 for universities and 100 for polytechnics — but smart candidates know that the real target is 20 to 50 points above whatever the minimum is for their chosen course. If your result is not yet available, check daily via SMS to 55019. If your score is not where you need it, the guide above tells you exactly which schools and courses remain realistic options. The next steps — Post-UTME registration, JAMB CAPS, and institution change — will all be covered in dedicated guides here on CampusNinja.
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