Every year, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) sets a minimum benchmark for university admissions. For 2025, JAMB fixed the national cut-off mark for universities at 150.
But here’s the truth: many universities demand much higher scores, especially for courses like Medicine, Law, and Engineering. In this article, we’ll look at the top universities with the highest JAMB cut-off marks in 2025, why they set these standards, and what students can do to meet them.
Why Cut-Off Marks Differ Across Universities
Although JAMB sets a baseline, schools decide their own departmental cut-off marks. Several factors influence this:
- Course Popularity – Medicine, Law, Nursing, and Engineering always attract higher competition.
- Institution Reputation – Older, prestigious schools like UI or UNILAG generally demand more.
- Quota System – Limited slots force universities to raise their cut-off to filter candidates.
- Performance Trends – If more students score higher in UTME, cut-offs rise accordingly.
Top Nigerian Universities with High JAMB Cut-Off Marks in 2025
Here are universities that stand out for demanding higher JAMB scores this year:
| University | General JAMB Cut-Off (2025) | Notes |
| University of Ibadan (UI) | 200+ | Nigeria’s oldest university, famous for high competition. Medicine & Law often require 270–280+. |
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | 200+ | Highly competitive courses demand 250+. Popular among UTME candidates nationwide. |
| Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | 200+ | Medicine, Pharmacy, and Law top the list with 260+. |
| University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | 200+ | Known for tough requirements in Medicine, Law, and Health Sciences. |
| Covenant University | 200+ | Leading private university, selective in Engineering and Tech programs. |
| Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria) | 180–200 | One of the largest universities, competitive in Engineering and Medicine. |
| University of Benin (UNIBEN) | 200+ | Cut-off for Law and Medicine often pushes above 260+. |
| Babcock University | 200+ | Private university with strong demand in Medicine and Law. |
Note: These figures vary by department. Always check the departmental cut-off from your school before applying.
Courses with the Highest JAMB Cut-Off Marks in 2025
Even within universities, some courses require much higher scores than others:
- Medicine and Surgery – 270–280+ in most federal universities.
- Law – 260+ across many competitive schools.
- Pharmacy & Nursing – 250–270+.
- Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical) – 240–260+.
- Mass Communication – 230+ in popular schools like UNILAG.
Tips to Beat High Cut-Off Marks
If your dream course or school is competitive, here’s how to increase your chances:
- Aim for 250+ in UTME – Even if JAMB sets 150, go well above average.
- Prepare for Post-UTME – Schools like UNILAG, UI, and OAU use Post-UTME to screen further.
- Strong O’Level Grades – Five credits in core subjects (especially English & Mathematics) boost your aggregate.
- Choose Courses Wisely – If your UTME score is low, consider less competitive courses or schools.
- Stay Updated – Always check official school portals for departmental cut-offs and Post-UTME dates.
Final Thoughts
The top universities with the highest JAMB cut-off marks in 2025 include UI, UNILAG, OAU, UNN, UNIBEN, and some top private universities like Covenant and Babcock. If you’re targeting competitive courses like Medicine or Law, you’ll need a score of 250+ or higher.
For success, combine a strong UTME score, excellent O’Level results, and a good Post-UTME performance.
See also: How to prepare for Post-UTME exams.