Top Nigerian Universities & Polytechnics That Accept Low JAMB Scores in 2026 (120–180 Admission Guide)

 

Top Nigerian Universities & Polytechnics That Accept Low JAMB Scores in 2026 (120–180 Admission Guide)

Top Nigerian Universities & Polytechnics That Accept Low JAMB Scores in 2026 (120–180 Admission Guide)

If your JAMB score is between 120 and 180, don’t panic—you still have many good schools in Nigeria that can offer you admission. The key is choosing the right institution and course.

Here’s a well-researched list of universities, polytechnics, and colleges in Nigeria that are known to accept low JAMB scores 

 Federal Universities (Some Accept Lower Scores)

These schools are competitive, but some courses accept lower cut-off marks:

1. University of Maiduguri – accepts 140+ for some courses

2. Federal University Dutsin-Ma – accepts 140+

3. Federal University Birnin Kebbi – accepts 140–160

4. Federal University Gusau – accepts 140+

5. Federal University Kashere – accepts 140+

 These are newer federal universities with less competition.

 State Universities (Best for Low Scores)

State universities are your best option if your score is not too high:

1. Kaduna State University – accepts 140–170

2. Kogi State University – accepts 140+

3. Ekiti State University – accepts 140–160

3. Benue State University – accepts 140+

5. Delta State University – accepts 150+

6. Enugu State University of Science and Technology – accepts 150+

 These schools are easier to enter compared to top federal universities.

 Polytechnics (Accept 120–150)

Polytechnics are one of the best options for low JAMB scores:

1. Federal Polytechnic Nekede – accepts 120+

2. Kaduna Polytechnic – accepts 120+

3. Federal Polytechnic Ede – accepts 120+

4. Auchi Polytechnic – accepts 120+

5. Yaba College of Technology – accepts 150+

 You can later upgrade to university through Direct Entry.

 Colleges of Education (Very Low Cut-Off)

These institutions accept some of the lowest JAMB scores:

1. Federal College of Education Zaria – accepts 100–120

2. Kano State College of Education – accepts 100+

3. College of Education Ikere-Ekiti – accepts 100+

4. FCT College of Education Zuba – accepts 100+

 Great if you want to study education and become a teacher.

 Private Universities (Flexible Admission)

Private universities are more flexible with admission:

1. Madonna University – accepts 140+

2. Babcock University – accepts 160+

3. Igbinedion University – accepts 140+

4. Bowen University – accepts 150+

 These schools are easier to enter but require higher school fees.

Important Tips for Admission

Always check your school on the JAMB Portal

Choose less competitive courses

Consider change of institution/course

Make sure you have 5 credits in WAEC/NECO, including English

 Final Advice

A low JAMB score is not the end. Many students gain admission every year with scores between 120 and 170.

 What matters is making a smart choice, not just a popular one.