Several students who want to gain admission into federal universities in Nigeria may not have a high UTME score, which is why they seek universities that accept a lower cut-off mark. In Nigeria, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) conducts the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) as a prerequisite for admission into tertiary institutions. The UTME score is a crucial factor in determining the eligibility of candidates for admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
Fortunately, some federal universities in Nigeria accept a cut-off mark of 170 or lower. These universities offer admission to students who have scored 170 or above in their UTME. The cut-off mark is the minimum score required for admission into a particular institution.
While some universities have a cut-off mark of 200 or higher, some accept a lower score. Students who have scored 170 or above in their UTME can apply to these universities and stand a chance of gaining admission.
This article will provide a list of federal universities in Nigeria that accept 170 as a cut-off mark. It will also provide information about the admission process and requirements for each of the universities. Students who want to gain admission into federal universities but have a low UTME score can use this article as a guide to select universities that accept a lower cut-off mark.
Understanding Cut Off Marks
Cut off marks are the minimum scores required by candidates to be eligible for admission into a particular institution or course. In Nigeria, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) sets the cut off marks for universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
The cut off marks for federal universities are usually higher than those of state universities. However, some federal universities accept 170 as a cut off mark, providing opportunities for students who scored lower on the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to pursue their desired academic paths.
It is important to note that meeting the cut off mark does not guarantee admission into the desired institution or course. Other factors such as the number of available slots, the number of candidates who met the cut off mark, and the candidate’s choice of course also play a significant role in the admission process.
Here is a table showing some federal universities that accept 170 as a cut off mark:
| University | Cut Off Mark |
|---|---|
| Federal University Birnin-Kebbi (FUBK) | 170 |
| University Of Port Harcourt, River State | 170 |
| Federal University Of Agriculture, Makurdi (FUAM) | 170 |
| University Of Calabar (UNICAL) | 170 |
| Federal University, Lafia, Nasarawa State | 170 |
| Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi | 160 |
Federal University Gusau, Zamfara State – 170
YUSUF MAITAMA SULE UNIVERSITY KANO – 160
FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF PETROLEUM RESOURCES, EFFURUN – 170
PLATEAU STATE UNIVERSITY, BOKKOS, PLATEAU STATE – 170
NIGERIA MARITIME UNIVERSITY, OKERENKOKO, DELTA STATE – 170
VERITAS UNIVERSITY, ABUJA, FCT – 160
FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, LAFIA, NASARAWA STATE – 160
Candidates who meet the cut off mark for their desired institution or course are advised to prepare adequately for the post-UTME screening exercise. The screening exercise is usually more competitive than the UTME, and candidates are expected to perform well in order to increase their chances of admission.
Eligibility Criteria for Federal Universities Accepting 170 Cut Off
Students who wish to gain admission into federal universities that accept 170 as cut off mark must meet certain eligibility criteria. Below are the general requirements that students must meet:
JAMB UTME Cut Off Mark
In Nigeria, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) conducts the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) as a prerequisite for admission into tertiary institutions. Students who wish to gain admission into federal universities that accept 170 as cut off mark must have scored at least 170 in their JAMB UTME.
O’Level Results
Students must also possess a minimum of five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects including Mathematics and English Language in their Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) or its equivalent. The credit passes must be obtained in not more than two sittings.
Post-UTME Screening
After meeting the JAMB UTME cut off mark and O’Level requirements, students are required to participate in the post-UTME screening exercise of the federal university they wish to attend. The screening exercise is usually conducted to further assess the eligibility of students for admission into the university.
It is important to note that meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee automatic admission into the university. Admission is subject to the availability of spaces and the competitiveness of the admission process.
List of Federal Universities with 170 Cut Off Mark
Region-Specific Federal Universities
In Nigeria, there are several federal universities that accept 170 as a cut-off mark for admission. These universities are spread across different regions of the country, providing opportunities for students from various parts of Nigeria to pursue their academic goals.
Some of the federal universities that accept 170 as a cut-off mark include the Federal University Birnin-Kebbi (FUBK) in the North-West region, the University of Port Harcourt in the South-South region, and the Federal University of Agriculture in Makurdi (FUAM) in the North-Central region.
Course-Specific Acceptance Rates
It is important to note that while some federal universities accept 170 as a general cut-off mark, others may have specific cut-off marks for particular courses. For instance, the University of Calabar (UNICAL) may accept 170 as a general cut-off mark, but may require higher scores for certain courses such as Medicine and Law.
Therefore, it is advisable for prospective students to check the admission requirements of their preferred course of study in the university they intend to apply to. This will help them to determine the specific cut-off mark required for their course of interest.
In conclusion, while there are federal universities that accept 170 as a cut-off mark, it is important for students to also focus on preparing adequately for their UTME exams in order to increase their chances of gaining admission into their preferred universities and courses.
Admission Process for Low Cut Off Federal Universities
Federal Universities in Nigeria are known for their high academic standards and strict admission requirements. However, some universities accept a lower cut-off mark of 170, providing opportunities for students who scored below the average cut-off mark.
The admission process for low cut-off Federal Universities is similar to that of other universities. Prospective students must first sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and score a minimum of 170. Afterward, they must choose their desired Federal University as their first choice during the JAMB registration process.
Once the JAMB results are released, the Federal Universities will announce their respective departmental cut-off marks. Students who meet the departmental cut-off mark will be eligible to participate in the post-UTME screening exercise.
During the post-UTME screening exercise, prospective students will be tested on their knowledge of the subjects relevant to their chosen course of study. The screening exercise may include a written test, oral interview, or both.
After the screening exercise, the Federal Universities will release their admission lists based on merit order. Students who meet the requirements and pass the screening exercise will be offered admission into their desired course of study.
It is important to note that the admission process for low cut-off Federal Universities is competitive, and meeting the minimum cut-off mark does not guarantee admission. Therefore, prospective students are advised to work hard and prepare adequately for the screening exercise to increase their chances of admission.
Advantages of Lower Cut Off Marks
Lower cut off marks have several advantages for students who want to gain admission into federal universities. One of the main advantages is that it provides more opportunities for students to gain admission. With a lower cut off mark, more students are eligible to apply for admission, which increases the chances of getting admitted.
Another advantage of lower cut off marks is that it helps to reduce the pressure on students. When the cut off mark is too high, students tend to become anxious and stressed out, which may affect their performance in the examination. Lower cut off marks help to reduce this pressure, as students are more relaxed and confident when they know that they have a good chance of gaining admission.
Lower cut off marks also help to promote equity and fairness in the admission process. When the cut off mark is too high, it tends to favor students from privileged backgrounds who have had access to better educational resources and opportunities. Lower cut off marks help to level the playing field, as it gives students from diverse backgrounds an equal opportunity to gain admission.
Furthermore, lower cut off marks encourage healthy competition among students. When the cut off mark is too high, it tends to discourage students who may feel that they are not good enough to compete. Lower cut off marks help to encourage healthy competition, as students are more motivated to work hard and improve their performance in order to gain admission.
Overall, lower cut off marks have several advantages for students who want to gain admission into federal universities. It provides more opportunities, reduces pressure, promotes equity and fairness, and encourages healthy competition among students.
Challenges Facing Candidates with Lower Cut Off Scores
Candidates who scored below 170 in the UTME may face several challenges when seeking admission into federal universities that accept 170 as their cut off mark. Some of these challenges include:
- Limited Course Options: Candidates with lower cut off marks may have limited course options to choose from. This is because some courses may require higher cut off marks than 170, and candidates with lower scores may not be eligible for such courses.
- High Competition: With many candidates seeking admission into federal universities, competition for the available slots is usually high. Candidates with lower cut off marks may find it difficult to secure admission due to the high number of applicants.
- Low Chances of Getting Admission: Candidates with lower cut off marks may have lower chances of getting admission into their preferred courses. This is because many federal universities have limited admission slots, and priority is usually given to candidates with higher cut off marks.
- Need for Supplementary Exams: In some cases, candidates with lower cut off marks may be required to take supplementary exams before they can be considered for admission. This can be stressful and time-consuming, and may require additional preparation.
In summary, candidates with lower cut off marks may face several challenges when seeking admission into federal universities. However, with proper preparation and determination, it is still possible to secure admission into one’s preferred course.
Preparing for Admission with a 170 Cut Off Score
For students who have scored 170 or above in the UTME, there are several federal universities in Nigeria that accept this score as their cut off mark. However, it is important to note that admission is not guaranteed solely based on meeting the cut off score.
To increase the chances of admission, students should consider the following:
Research the University Requirements
Each university has its own specific admission requirements, including subject combinations, O’level grades, and other criteria. Students should research the admission requirements of the universities they are interested in and ensure they meet all the necessary criteria.
Apply to Multiple Universities
To increase the chances of admission, students should apply to multiple universities that accept a 170 cut off score. This increases the likelihood of receiving an admission offer from at least one of the universities.
Prepare for Post-UTME Screening
Most universities conduct a post-UTME screening exercise to further evaluate candidates for admission. To prepare for the screening, students should study past questions, review their UTME subjects, and stay up-to-date with current affairs.
Consider Other Admission Options
In addition to UTME, some universities also offer admission through Direct Entry and other alternative admission options. Students who are interested in these options should research the specific requirements and deadlines for each university.
By following these guidelines, students who have scored 170 or above can increase their chances of gaining admission into a federal university in Nigeria.
Alternative Options for Candidates Below the Cut Off Mark
For candidates who scored below 170 in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), there are still alternative options available to gain admission into a federal university in Nigeria. These options include:
Pre-Degree Programmes
Most federal universities offer pre-degree programmes for candidates who did not meet the cut-off mark for admission. These programmes usually last for a year and aim to prepare candidates for the UTME and post-UTME exams. Candidates who successfully complete the pre-degree programme and meet the required cut-off mark can then proceed to gain admission into the university.
Part-Time Programmes
Another alternative option for candidates who did not meet the cut-off mark is to enroll in a part-time programme. These programmes are designed for working-class individuals who cannot attend regular classes during the day. They usually run in the evenings or weekends and are less competitive than full-time programmes. Candidates who successfully complete a part-time programme can also earn a degree from the university.
Private Universities
Candidates who did not meet the cut-off mark for federal universities can also consider applying to private universities. Private universities in Nigeria have lower cut-off marks and are less competitive than federal universities. However, they are more expensive than federal universities and may not be affordable for everyone.
In conclusion, candidates who did not meet the cut-off mark for federal universities still have alternative options available to gain admission into a university. Pre-degree programmes, part-time programmes, and private universities are all viable options to consider. Candidates should carefully evaluate their options and choose the one that best suits their needs and circumstances.