Scored low in your JAMB UTME and worried about missing out on university admission? Don’t panic! 💡 Many students think a low JAMB score automatically ruins their chances, but that’s not true. Several courses, polytechnics, and universities accept lower scores — and you can still pursue your academic dreams.

In this blog post, we’ll explore:

• The meaning of a low JAMB score
• Courses you can study with a low score
• Universities that accept lower scores
• Alternative pathways to admission

Let’s dive in! 🚀

What Is Considered a Low JAMB Score?

A low JAMB score is typically anything below the cut-off mark for highly competitive courses. For example:

• Medicine and Surgery: 280–300+
• Law: 250–270+
• Engineering: 240–260+

But a score between 120 and 180 doesn’t automatically disqualify you — it just limits your options. Luckily, plenty of great courses and institutions accept lower scores!

💡 Tip: The official JAMB minimum cut-off mark for universities is 140, while polytechnics and colleges of education can accept as low as 100–120, depending on the institution.

Courses You Can Study with a Low JAMB Score (120–180)

If your score falls within this range, you can still get admission into many universities, polytechnics, and colleges. Below are some courses that often have lower cut-off marks:

🎯 Education Courses

• Education and Biology
• Education and Chemistry
• Education and English Language
• Physical and Health Education
• Early Childhood Education

Why Choose Education? There’s high demand for teachers, and it’s easier to switch to related courses later through a Direct Entry (DE) program.

🎯 Agricultural and Environmental Courses

• Agriculture
• Forestry and Wildlife Management
• Fisheries and Aquaculture
• Soil Science
• Environmental Management

Why Choose Agriculture? Nigeria has a booming agricultural sector, and these courses provide practical skills for self-employment or government roles.

🎯 Arts and Social Science Courses

• History and International Studies
• Political Science (in less competitive schools)
• Sociology
• Religious Studies
• Theatre Arts

Why Choose Social Sciences? Many of these courses offer broad career options in media, administration, NGOs, and government agencies.

🎯 Science and Tech-Related Courses

• Mathematics
• Statistics
• Geography
• Industrial Chemistry
• Computer Science (in polytechnics or less competitive universities)

Why Choose Science Courses? Science and tech skills are in high demand, and you can build your career through short tech certifications even before graduating.

🎯 Business and Management Courses

• Business Administration
• Public Administration
• Marketing
• Cooperative Economics and Management

Why Choose Business? These courses equip you with skills for entrepreneurship, corporate jobs, or even starting your own business!

Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores (2025/2026)

Several universities, especially state and private ones, are flexible with cut-off marks. Here are a few examples:

• Ambrose Alli University (AAU) – 140 and above
• University of Calabar (UNICAL) – 150 and above (for some courses)
• Lagos State University (LASU) – 150 and above
• Nasarawa State University (NSUK) – 140 and above
• Ekiti State University (EKSU) – 140 and above
• Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) – 150 and above (for less competitive courses)

💡 Tip: Always check your chosen university’s departmental cut-off marks — some departments set their own score requirements!

Alternative Admission Pathways with a Low JAMB Score

If your score is too low for your desired course, don’t give up! You still have options:

1. Change of Course/Institution
   If you missed your target score, consider switching to a less competitive course or school through the JAMB Change of Course/Institution portal.
2. Polytechnics and Colleges of Education
   Many polytechnics and colleges of education accept scores as low as 100–120. You can study there and later switch to a university through Direct Entry (DE).
3. Part-Time or Distance Learning Programs
   Schools like UNILAG, UI, and LASU offer part-time programs that don’t rely on JAMB scores. You can earn the same degree — just at a slower pace.
4. Pre-Degree or Remedial Programs
   Some universities offer pre-degree or remedial programs that help you improve your chances of admission the following year.
5. IJMB or JUPEB Programs
   These are A-level programs that allow you to gain Direct Entry admission into 200 level after one year of study — without rewriting JAMB!

ALSO READ: How to Check Admission Status on JAMB CAPS

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In this section, I will provide you with FAQs and answers on “Courses you can study with a low JAMB score in 2025/2026”. Keep on reading dear friend.

1. Can I gain admission with a JAMB score of 120?

Yes! Many polytechnics and colleges of education accept scores as low as 120. Some state universities also consider scores from 140–150.

2. What is the lowest JAMB score accepted by universities?

The lowest JAMB score accepted by most universities is 140, but some may set higher departmental cut-offs.

3. Should I change my course if my score is low?

If your score doesn’t meet the cut-off for your preferred course, changing to a less competitive course increases your chances of admission.

4. Can I still study Medicine with a low JAMB score?

If your JAMB score is too low for Medicine, consider starting with a related course (like Biology or Anatomy) and later apply for Direct Entry into 200 level.

5. Is it better to attend a polytechnic or wait for another JAMB?

It depends on your goals! If you want to start school right away, polytechnics are a great option — and you can upgrade to a university later via Direct Entry.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Low JAMB Score Stop You!

A low JAMB score doesn’t mean the end of your academic journey. Nigeria’s educational system offers plenty of alternatives — whether through less competitive courses, polytechnics, or Direct Entry programs.

The key is to stay flexible, explore your options, and act fast! By choosing wisely and making use of the change of course/institution option, you can still secure admission and pursue your dreams.

If you’d like help choosing the best course or school for your score — drop a comment below or reach out! I’d be happy to guide you. 🚀