UNILAG Admission Cut-Off for Catchment & ELDS States 2025/2026

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is one of Nigeria’s premier institutions, attracting thousands of aspirants every year. For prospective students, understanding the UNILAG admission cut-off marks for catchment and ELDS states is vital to increase their chances of admission.

This comprehensive guide will explain what catchment and ELDS states mean, how cut-off marks differ for these categories, and how you can use this information to your advantage for the 2025/2026 admission session. We will also answer common questions and provide detailed tables and examples to help you grasp every aspect fully.

What Are Catchment and ELDS States in UNILAG Admission?

Catchment States Explained

Catchment states refer to the states geographically closer or historically linked to UNILAG. Students from these states typically receive some form of admission preference or advantage.

UNILAG’s catchment states include:

• Lagos

• Ogun

• Ondo

• Ekiti

• Osun

• Oyo

ELDS States Explained

ELDS stands for Educationally Less Developed States. These states are recognized by the Nigerian government as needing additional support to improve educational access. UNILAG gives some preference to candidates from ELDS states during admissions.

Some ELDS states are:

• Adamawa

• Bauchi

• Borno

• Gombe

• Jigawa

• Kebbi

• Niger

• Sokoto

• Taraba

• Yobe

Providing admission preference to these states helps balance regional educational inequalities in Nigeria.

Why Does UNILAG Have Different Cut-Off Marks for Catchment and ELDS States?

The reason for varying cut-off marks is to promote equity and inclusiveness in Nigerian higher education. Candidates from catchment states or ELDS states may face different socio-economic challenges or have different access to educational resources.

By setting different cut-off marks:

• UNILAG encourages regional diversity.

• It promotes social justice by supporting disadvantaged regions.

• Ensures candidates from all parts of Nigeria have a fair chance at admission.

Understanding UNILAG Admission Cut-Off Marks

What Is a Cut-Off Mark?

A cut-off mark is the minimum score a candidate must achieve in the combined aggregate of JAMB UTME and Post UTME to be considered for admission into a particular course.

UNILAG uses the combined scores from:

• JAMB UTME (50%)

• Post UTME (50%)

The total aggregate score must meet or exceed the departmental cut-off mark for admission eligibility.

Typical Cut-Off Marks

• The lowest cut-off mark accepted by UNILAG is usually 200 aggregate.

• Cut-off marks can vary by course, department, and category of candidate (catchment, ELDS, non-catchment).

• Candidates from catchment or ELDS states may have a slightly lower cut-off mark compared to those from non-catchment states.

UNILAG Catchment and ELDS States Cut-Off Marks: Faculty-by-Faculty Breakdown

Below is a detailed table summarizing the typical cut-off marks for catchment and ELDS states versus others across various faculties. Note that these cut-offs are subject to slight changes annually.

Note: These are indicative figures based on previous admission cycles and may vary.

How to Use This Cut-Off Information to Your Advantage

• Check Your State Category: Determine if your state is catchment, ELDS, or neither.

• Aim for the Recommended Cut-Off: If you belong to a catchment or ELDS state, understand your cut-off might be lower but still aim to exceed it.

• Choose Courses Strategically: Some courses have higher cut-offs; choose wisely based on your scores.

• Prepare Well for Post UTME: Since Post UTME contributes 50% to your aggregate, excelling here can boost your chances.

• Use the UNILAG Aggregate Calculator: Quickly calculate your aggregate score to see if you meet cut-offs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the minimum cut-off mark for UNILAG admission?

The minimum aggregate cut-off mark is usually 200.

2. Which states are considered catchment states for UNILAG?

Catchment states include Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Ekiti, Osun, and Oyo.

3. What are ELDS states?

ELDS are Educationally Less Developed States, given some admission preference to promote equity.

4. Does UNILAG have lower cut-offs for catchment or ELDS states?

Yes, candidates from these states often have slightly lower cut-off marks.

5. How is my UNILAG aggregate score calculated?

UNILAG combines your JAMB UTME score and Post UTME score, each contributing 50%.

6. Can I apply to UNILAG if I am not from a catchment or ELDS state?

Yes, but the cut-off mark is typically higher.

7. Is O’Level result considered in cut-off marks?

Yes, meeting O’Level requirements is mandatory alongside aggregate scores.

8. How do I know if I meet the cut-off mark?

Use tools like the UNILAG Aggregate Calculator for accurate assessment.

9. Does UNILAG give preference based on catchment area during admission?

Yes, to promote regional diversity and equity.

10. When are UNILAG admission lists released?

Admission lists are usually released after Post UTME screening, typically between September and December.

Summary Table: UNILAG Admission Cut-Off Overview

Conclusion

Understanding the UNILAG admission cut-off for catchment and ELDS states is crucial for planning your application and maximizing your admission chances. While candidates from catchment and ELDS states enjoy some admission advantages, all applicants must aim to score at least the minimum cut-off mark of 200 to remain competitive.

Ensure you prepare thoroughly for both JAMB and Post UTME exams, confirm your state category, and use available tools like the UNILAG Aggregate Calculator to track your progress.

Stay updated with official UNILAG announcements and guidelines to avoid mistakes during the admission process.

If you need help calculating your aggregate or want to check your course eligibility, use the UNILAG Aggregate Calculator and Course Eligibility Checker