Admission into Nigerian universities has always been highly competitive. Every year, millions of candidates sit for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination, while thousands apply through the Direct Entry (DE) route. Direct Entry is a special admission pathway designed for candidates who already hold advanced qualifications such as OND, NCE, HND, A-Level, IJMB, JUPEB, or a bachelor’s degree and wish to gain admission directly into 200 level instead of starting from 100 level.
One of the most important factors for both JAMB and Direct Entry admission is the cut-off mark. In 2025, understanding the JAMB Direct Entry cut-off mark for universities in Nigeria is crucial because it determines whether you stand a chance of being admitted into your desired course.
This guide will provide:
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A clear explanation of what JAMB Direct Entry cut-off marks mean.
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The difference between JAMB cut-off marks and university departmental cut-off marks.
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The general JAMB-approved cut-off marks for Nigerian universities.
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Direct Entry admission policies for federal, state, and private universities.
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How Direct Entry candidates are evaluated differently from UTME candidates.
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A full breakdown of competitive and less competitive courses.
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Tips to boost your chances of admission in 2025.
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A summary table for quick reference.
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A detailed FAQ section to clear all doubts.
By the end of this article, you will fully understand how JAMB Direct Entry cut-off marks work and how to position yourself for admission success.
What is JAMB Direct Entry?
Direct Entry (DE) is an admission system by JAMB that allows candidates with higher qualifications to gain admission into universities at the 200 level (second year). Unlike UTME candidates, Direct Entry applicants are not required to write the full JAMB exam but must still register through JAMB and participate in post-UTME or screening exercises conducted by universities.
Eligible Qualifications for Direct Entry
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Ordinary National Diploma (OND)
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Higher National Diploma (HND)
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Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE)
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A’ Level Certificates (IJMB, JUPEB, Cambridge A-Level)
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Bachelor’s degree (for those seeking transfer to another university or course)
What is a Cut-Off Mark?
A cut-off mark is the minimum score or grade required by JAMB and universities to qualify a candidate for admission. For UTME candidates, this is based on the JAMB score out of 400. For Direct Entry candidates, it is based on:
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Grades from OND/NCE/HND/A-Level results.
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Post-UTME or screening score conducted by the university.
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JAMB Direct Entry processing confirmation.
JAMB Cut Off Mark vs. University Cut Off Mark
There are two types of cut-off marks every candidate must understand:
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JAMB National Minimum Cut-Off Mark
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This is announced by JAMB every year after the policy meeting.
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It serves as a guideline for all Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges.
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University/Departmental Cut-Off Marks
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Each university sets its own higher cut-off mark depending on the competitiveness of the course.
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For example, Medicine at UNILAG may require a higher score than History at the same university.
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Direct Entry applicants are judged by their grades and university screening, not just JAMB’s national minimum.
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JAMB Direct Entry Cut Off Mark for Universities in Nigeria (2025)
In 2025, JAMB has maintained the general minimum cut-off mark for universities at 140. However, for Direct Entry candidates, the focus is less on JAMB UTME scores and more on qualification grades and post-UTME performance.
Federal Universities
Most federal universities in Nigeria maintain higher standards due to intense competition. Their cut-off marks for Direct Entry screening usually fall between 180 – 250 depending on the course.
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UNILAG: Highly competitive, requires distinction/upper credit for DE candidates.
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UI: Demands strong A’ Level grades and very high screening scores.
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OAU: Accepts DE with merit but requires high departmental standards.
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UNN: Very strict for Law, Medicine, Pharmacy, and Engineering.
State Universities
State universities are relatively flexible. They maintain cut-off marks around 160 – 200 for most courses, though professional programs may still demand higher.
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LASU: Accepts merit, but professional courses are competitive.
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DELSU: Moderate cut-off marks but still competitive for Medicine and Law.
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EKSU: Accepts DE widely but prioritizes strong qualifications.
Private Universities
Private universities are the most flexible in terms of cut-off marks. As long as you meet JAMB’s registration requirement and have a valid qualification, they are likely to admit you.
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Covenant University: Focuses more on interview and internal assessment.
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Babcock University: Accepts OND/NCE/ JUPEB with moderate grades.
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Bowen University: Flexible, accepts two sittings and average grades.
Cut Off Marks for Competitive Courses in Nigeria (2025)
Some courses require higher cut-off marks due to high demand. Direct Entry applicants must present very strong results to be considered.
Medicine and Surgery
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Cut-off mark: 250+ (for UTME)
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For DE: Distinction in A’ Levels or Upper Credit in OND/HND.
Law
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Cut-off mark: 220 – 250
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DE: Very strong A-Level or JUPEB grades required.
Pharmacy
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Cut-off mark: 220 – 240
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DE: Must have science qualifications with distinction.
Engineering
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Cut-off mark: 200 – 220
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DE: OND/HND Upper Credit in Engineering field.
Social Sciences & Management
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Cut-off mark: 160 – 200
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DE: NCE/OND pass or merit may be accepted.
How Direct Entry Admission Works in Nigerian Universities
Direct Entry admission involves multiple steps:
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JAMB Registration – Candidates must register DE through JAMB portal.
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University Post-UTME/Screening – Most universities conduct exams or physical screening.
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Evaluation of Credentials – Universities check OND, NCE, JUPEB, IJMB, or degree results.
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Merit List Release – Only those meeting departmental cut-off marks are admitted.
Key Differences Between UTME and Direct Entry Cut-Off Marks
| Feature | UTME | Direct Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Basis of Cut-Off | JAMB score (out of 400) | Previous qualification grades |
| Admission Level | 100 level | 200 level |
| Competition | Higher (millions of candidates) | Moderate (thousands of candidates) |
| Flexibility | Based on raw score | Based on qualification + screening |
Tips to Secure Admission with Direct Entry in 2025
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Aim for Upper Credit or Distinction in OND/HND/NCE.
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Choose less competitive courses if your grades are average.
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Apply to state or private universities if federal ones are too competitive.
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Perform excellently in post-UTME or screening since universities use this to judge DE candidates.
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Prepare your documents early (transcripts, certificates, and two sittings if applicable).
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Confirm your university’s DE policy before applying.
Summary Table – JAMB Direct Entry Cut Off Marks for Nigerian Universities (2025)
| University Type | General Cut-Off | Competitive Courses | Less Competitive Courses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal | 180 – 250 | Medicine, Law, Pharmacy, Engineering | Arts, Education, Social Sciences |
| State | 160 – 200 | Medicine, Law, Nursing | Agriculture, Education, Social Sciences |
| Private | Flexible (140+) | Medicine, Law (may be restricted) | Most courses |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the JAMB cut-off mark for Direct Entry 2025?
The general minimum is 140, but universities set higher departmental cut-off marks.
2. Do Direct Entry candidates write JAMB exams?
No, but they must register with JAMB and sit for post-UTME or screening in their chosen universities.
3. Can I gain admission with a Pass in OND through Direct Entry?
It is very unlikely. Most universities require Upper Credit or Merit.
4. Which universities are best for Direct Entry admission?
State and private universities are more flexible, while federal universities are more competitive.
5. Does UNILAG accept Direct Entry?
Yes, but only for candidates with very strong qualifications.
6. Is Direct Entry easier than UTME?
It depends. Competition is lower, but universities still demand strong results.
7. Can I apply with IJMB or JUPEB results?
Yes, both are acceptable qualifications for Direct Entry.
8. Does Direct Entry guarantee 200 level admission?
Yes, successful candidates start from 200 level.
9. Can I combine results for Direct Entry?
Yes, two sittings (WAEC/NECO) can be combined if the university accepts it.
10. Do private universities require cut-off marks?
Yes, but they are more flexible and focus on screening results.
Conclusion
The JAMB Direct Entry cut-off mark for universities in Nigeria (2025) is a vital part of the admission process. While JAMB provides a general minimum benchmark, each university sets its own departmental standards, especially for competitive courses like Medicine, Law, and Engineering.
Direct Entry gives students with higher qualifications an opportunity to start from 200 level, but success depends on grades, post-UTME performance, and the university’s admission policy.
If you are applying in 2025, ensure you:
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Understand your university’s DE requirements.
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Present strong results (Upper Credit or distinction).
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Choose wisely between federal, state, and private universities depending on your competitiveness.
With the right preparation and awareness of cut-off marks, you can maximize your chances of securing admission into your dream university in Nigeria.