JAMB Marking and Grading System Explained for Candidates (2026)

Every year, millions of students across Nigeria sit for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). For many candidates, their future dreams of studying at a university, polytechnic, or college of education depend largely on the scores they obtain in this exam.

But one of the biggest concerns that candidates often face is: How does JAMB calculate scores?

In 2026, understanding the JAMB marking and grading system has become more important than ever. Many students prepare hard, yet they feel anxious because they do not fully understand how their performance will be translated into marks. Without this knowledge, it is easy to underestimate or overestimate your results.

This guide is written to clear all doubts. We will carefully explain:

• What the JAMB marking and grading system means

• How JAMB scores each subject

• The formula JAMB uses for grading candidates

• Common myths and facts about negative marking

• How to calculate your UTME score step by step

• The role of cut-off marks and subject combinations

• Practical tips to maximize your score

• FAQs on JAMB grading

By the end of this article, you will have a complete understanding of how JAMB scores are calculated and how you can use this knowledge to perform better in your exams.

What is the JAMB Marking and Grading System?

The JAMB marking and grading system is the official method used by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board to score candidates in the UTME. It determines how many marks each question carries, how correct answers are rewarded, and how a candidate’s total score is calculated.

In simple terms, the marking system is the blueprint that translates your answers into your final UTME score out of 400.

For instance:

• If you answer a question correctly, you earn marks.

• If you leave it blank or answer wrongly, you earn no marks.

• Your total marks across all four subjects make up your UTME score.

This system ensures fairness, transparency, and standardization so that every candidate is judged by the same rules.

Why You Must Understand the JAMB Marking System in 2026

Many students spend months preparing for JAMB without ever learning how the exam is scored. This often leads to unnecessary fear or unrealistic expectations.

Here are key reasons why understanding the system is important:

1. Better Preparation – When you know how marks are awarded, you can focus your energy on the right areas.

2. Smart Time Management – Understanding the value of each question helps you plan how to allocate your exam time wisely.

3. Reduced Anxiety – Knowing there is no negative marking can reduce panic during the exam.

4. Accurate Self-Assessment – After the exam, you can estimate your likely score before results are released.

5. Admission Strategy – Knowing how grading works helps you set realistic goals for your chosen institution’s cut-off mark.

How Many Subjects Are Scored in JAMB?

JAMB UTME consists of four subjects:

1. Use of English (compulsory for all candidates)

2. Three other subjects based on the candidate’s chosen course of study

Each subject contributes to the final UTME score, making a maximum possible total of 400 marks.

• Use of English: 60 questions (worth 100 marks)

• Other three subjects: 40 questions each (worth 100 marks each)

This means:

• Use of English carries slightly more weight.

• Each of the other subjects carries equal weight.

JAMB Marking Formula Explained

JAMB uses a simple and consistent marking formula. Let’s break it down:

1. Use of English

• Number of questions: 60

• Total marks: 100

• Each question carries about 1.67 marks (100 ÷ 60).

2. Other Subjects (e.g., Mathematics, Biology, Government, Economics, etc.)

• Number of questions: 40

• Total marks: 100

• Each question carries 2.5 marks (100 ÷ 40).

3. Final Score Calculation

• Your scores across all four subjects are added together.

• Maximum possible score = 400 marks.

Example:

• Use of English: 45 correct × 1.67 = 75 marks

• Mathematics: 32 correct × 2.5 = 80 marks

• Physics: 28 correct × 2.5 = 70 marks

• Chemistry: 34 correct × 2.5 = 85 marks

• Total Score = 310 marks

Is There Negative Marking in JAMB?

One of the most common questions candidates ask is: “Does JAMB use negative marking?”

The answer is No.

• If you answer a question wrongly, you do not lose marks.

• You only gain marks for correct answers.

• Wrong answers simply carry zero marks.

This means candidates should never leave questions blank. It is always better to attempt every question, even if you are unsure of the answer.

Step-by-Step Guide to Calculating Your JAMB Score

Here’s how you can calculate your JAMB score by yourself after writing the exam:

1. Write down the number of correct answers for each subject.

2. Multiply by the mark per question.

   • For Use of English: multiply by 1.67

   • For other subjects: multiply by 2.5

3. Add up the scores for all four subjects.

4. Your total is your UTME score (out of 400).

Example:

• English: 50 correct = 83.5 marks

• Biology: 30 correct = 75 marks

• Chemistry: 28 correct = 70 marks

• Physics: 32 correct = 80 marks

• Total = 308 marks

Understanding JAMB Cut-Off Marks and Grading

Your JAMB score does not stand alone. Each year, institutions set cut-off marks to decide which candidates qualify for admission.

Types of Cut-Off Marks:

1. JAMB General Cut-Off Mark – The minimum score recommended by JAMB (usually 140–180).

2. Institutional Cut-Off Mark – Each university, polytechnic, or college sets its own benchmark.

3. Departmental Cut-Off Mark – Faculties or departments often set higher marks for competitive courses like Medicine, Law, or Engineering.

This shows why it is not enough to just pass JAMB. You must aim higher than the general cut-off if you want admission into your preferred course.

Common Misconceptions About JAMB Marking

Many candidates believe myths about JAMB scoring. Let’s clarify them:

• Myth 1: Wrong answers reduce your score.

  • False. There is no negative marking.

• Myth 2: All questions carry the same marks.

  • False. English questions carry 1.67 marks, others carry 2.5 marks.

• Myth 3: JAMB sometimes adds bonus marks.

  • False. JAMB does not give bonus marks. Every score is strictly based on correct answers.

Tips to Score Higher in JAMB 2026

1. Master Use of English – Since it carries 100 marks, performing well here boosts your overall score.

2. Practice Past Questions – This helps you understand the pattern of questions.

3. Attempt Every Question – Since no negative marking exists, always answer all questions.

4. Time Management – Spend more time on questions you know; guess wisely when unsure.

5. Check Subject Combinations – Ensure you pick the right subjects for your chosen course.

Summary Table of JAMB Marking System

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many subjects does JAMB mark?
Four subjects – English and three chosen subjects.

2. What is the highest JAMB score possible?
400 marks.

3. Does JAMB use negative marking?
No, wrong answers do not reduce your marks.

4. How many marks does each question carry?
English = 1.67 marks per question, other subjects = 2.5 marks each.

5. Can I calculate my JAMB score before results are released?
Yes, by multiplying correct answers with the marks per question.

6. What is the JAMB pass mark?
There is no fixed pass mark, but cut-off marks usually range from 140–200.

7. Do all schools use the same cut-off mark?
No, each institution and department sets its own.

8. Can I gain admission with a low JAMB score?
Yes, through less competitive courses, institutions with lower cut-offs, or polytechnics.

9. Why is Use of English compulsory?
Because it tests communication skills needed for all courses.

10. How can I score above 300 in JAMB?
By mastering English, practicing consistently, managing time wisely, and attempting all questions.

Conclusion

The JAMB marking and grading system in 2026 is simple but very important to understand. Every candidate is graded based on correct answers across four subjects, with English carrying 100 marks and other subjects 100 each, making a total of 400 marks.

Knowing how this system works helps you plan better, reduce exam anxiety, and set realistic admission goals. Remember, there is no negative marking, so always attempt all questions.

If your goal is to secure admission into a top university or a competitive course, aim for the highest possible score. With good preparation and the right strategy, achieving 300+ is possible.

Your JAMB score is the key that unlocks your admission opportunities — so understand the grading system, prepare wisely, and position yourself for success.