Are you worried because you scored below 180 in JAMB? You don’t need to panic. Many Nigerian polytechnics accept low JAMB scores for admission, and you can still secure a place in 2025 with the right strategy.
In this guide, you will discover a full list of polytechnics that accept low JAMB score in Nigeria, their official cut-off marks, and tips to help you gain admission successfully this year.
What Is a Low JAMB Score for Polytechnic Admission?
A low JAMB score in Nigeria is generally considered to be anything below 180. However, the good news is that polytechnics have lower JAMB cut-off marks than universities.
According to JAMB guidelines for 2025:
Universities: Minimum cut-off is 140
Polytechnics: Minimum cut-off is 120
Colleges of Education: Minimum cut-off is 100
Some polytechnics even accept candidates with JAMB scores as low as 100, especially for less competitive programs.
Can I Gain Admission into a Polytechnic with 100, 120 or 130 in JAMB?
Yes, absolutely. Many federal, state, and private polytechnics in Nigeria accept candidates with scores between 100 and 130. You can gain admission into ND (National Diploma) programs and later proceed to HND or even Direct Entry into a university.
You only need to choose the right institution and course combination.
List of Polytechnics That Accept Low JAMB Scores in Nigeria 2025
Below is a carefully researched list of polytechnics in Nigeria that accept low JAMB scores (100 to 130) for admission into ND programs.
1. Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa
Location: Nasarawa State
Cut-off Mark: 120
Type: Federal
Notes: One of the most accessible polytechnics in Northern Nigeria.
2. Federal Polytechnic, Offa
Location: Kwara State
Cut-off Mark: 120
Type: Federal
Notes: Highly rated for Business and Engineering courses.
3. Kaduna Polytechnic (KADPOLY)
Location: Kaduna State
Cut-off Mark: 120
Type: Federal
Notes: Large student population and wide course offerings.
4. Auchi Polytechnic
Location: Edo State
Cut-off Mark: 120–150 (varies by course)
Type: Federal
Notes: Competitive courses like Engineering require higher scores.
5. Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH)
Location: Lagos State
Cut-off Mark: 150
Type: Federal
Notes: Very competitive. 150+ preferred for top courses.
6. The Polytechnic, Ibadan
Location: Oyo State
Cut-off Mark: 120
Type: State
Notes: Accepts low scores for several programs, especially in Science and Arts.
7. Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri
Location: Borno State
Cut-off Mark: 100
Type: State
Notes: Accepts one of the lowest JAMB scores in Nigeria.
8. Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro
Location: Delta State
Cut-off Mark: 120
Type: State
Notes: Now upgraded to a university, but 2025 admission still accepts low JAMB scores for ND.
9. Abia State Polytechnic
Location: Aba, Abia State
Cut-off Mark: 120
Type: State
Notes: Flexible course options and admission.
10. Imo State Polytechnic
Location: Umuagwo, Imo State
Cut-off Mark: 120
Type: State
Notes: Known for Agriculture, Engineering, and Business.
11. Federal Polytechnic, Nekede
Location: Owerri, Imo State
Cut-off Mark: 120
Type: Federal
Notes: High student demand but still accepts 120+ scores.
12. Kwara State Polytechnic
Location: Ilorin, Kwara State
Cut-off Mark: 120
Type: State
Notes: Wide range of ND programs available.
13. Nasarawa State Polytechnic (now Isa Mustapha Agwai Polytechnic)
Location: Lafia
Cut-off Mark: 120
Type: State
Notes: Great option for North Central applicants.
14. Kogi State Polytechnic
Location: Lokoja
Cut-off Mark: 120
Type: State
Notes: Accepts low JAMB scores for most courses.
15. Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade
Location: Ogun State
Cut-off Mark: 120
Type: State
Notes: Tech-focused institution with flexible admission policy.
Summary Table: Polytechnics That Accept Low JAMB Scores in Nigeria (2025)
| Polytechnic Name | Location | Type | Minimum Cut-Off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Poly Nasarawa | Nasarawa | Federal | 120 |
| Federal Poly Offa | Kwara | Federal | 120 |
| Kaduna Polytechnic | Kaduna | Federal | 120 |
| Auchi Polytechnic | Edo | Federal | 120–150 |
| YABATECH | Lagos | Federal | 150 |
| The Polytechnic Ibadan | Oyo | State | 120 |
| Ramat Polytechnic | Borno | State | 100 |
| Delta State Poly Ozoro | Delta | State | 120 |
| Abia State Polytechnic | Abia | State | 120 |
| Imo State Polytechnic | Imo | State | 120 |
| Fed Poly Nekede | Imo | Federal | 120 |
| Kwara State Polytechnic | Kwara | State | 120 |
| Isa Mustapha Agwai Polytechnic | Nasarawa | State | 120 |
| Kogi State Polytechnic | Kogi | State | 120 |
| Gateway ICT Polytechnic | Ogun | State | 120 |
Admission Tips for Candidates with Low JAMB Scores
If your JAMB score is between 100 and 130, here are a few tips to improve your chances:
Apply to polytechnics that accept your score range
Choose less competitive courses like Agricultural Tech, Statistics, or Library Science
Ensure your O’level (WAEC or NECO) results are complete with relevant credits
Be ready to write Post-UTME or screening test if required
Consider pre-ND or part-time programs if full-time is not possible
Alternative Options If You Don’t Meet the Cut-Off
If you don’t meet the minimum cut-off for a polytechnic ND program, consider:
Part-Time ND Programs – Most schools don’t require JAMB
Pre-ND/Foundation Programs – Prepare for next year with confidence
Colleges of Education – Cut-off can be as low as 100
Open Distance Learning (ODL) – Study from anywhere without JAMB
Change of Institution/Course on JAMB Portal – Realign your choices quickly
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I enter a polytechnic with 100 JAMB score?
Yes. Ramat Polytechnic and some state polytechnics accept 100 in JAMB. However, ensure your O’level result meets the course requirements.
Which polytechnic is best for low JAMB scores?
Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa, Federal Poly Offa, and Kaduna Polytechnic are great choices with friendly admission policies for low scorers.
What is the minimum JAMB score for polytechnic admission in 2025?
The minimum JAMB score approved by JAMB is 120. Some schools accept lower for less competitive courses.
Can I change my polytechnic choice after seeing my JAMB score?
Yes. You can use the JAMB Change of Institution/Course portal to select a polytechnic that matches your score.
Are private polytechnics easier to gain admission into?
Yes. Private polytechnics generally have more flexible admission requirements and may admit candidates with lower JAMB scores.
Final Thoughts on Polytechnics That Accept Low JAMB Score in Nigeria 2025
Scoring low in JAMB does not mean your academic journey is over. There are many polytechnics that accept low JAMB score in Nigeria, especially in the 100 to 130 range. What matters most is choosing the right school, the right course, and taking timely action.
With the information in this article, you now have everything you need to make the right admission decision in 2025. Choose wisely and act fast.