Are you worried about your low JAMB score in 2025? You're not alone. Thousands of students across Nigeria score between 140 and 170 every year and still gain admission successfully. The good news is, there are universities that accept low JAMB scores in 2025 — you just need to know where to look and how to apply smartly.
In this detailed guide, you will discover a full list of Nigerian universities that accept low JAMB scores in 2025, including their cut-off marks, available courses, and tips to boost your admission chances even with a low score.
What Is Considered a Low JAMB Score in 2025?
A low JAMB score in 2025 is generally anything below 180, especially if you are applying to competitive universities or courses like Medicine, Law, or Engineering.
However, many institutions have lower minimum requirements:
Federal Universities: 140–180
State Universities: 140–160
Private Universities: 140 and above
Polytechnics: 120 and above
Colleges of Education: 100 and above
If your score is between 140 and 170, don’t panic. There are universities that still offer admission within this range.
Can I Still Gain Admission with a Low JAMB Score?
Yes, absolutely. There are many universities in Nigeria that accept low JAMB scores and are fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
Your score may not take you to UNILAG or UI, but it can still get you into other reputable state or private universities, especially if you're open to changing your course or institution.
Let’s now look at the full list.
Full List of Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores in 2025
Below is a well-researched and updated list of universities that accept low JAMB scores in Nigeria for the 2025 academic session.
1. Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma
Cut-off Mark: 140 and above
Type: State University
Location: Edo State
Notes: Some departments require 150+
2. Delta State University (DELSU)
Cut-off Mark: 150 and above
Type: State University
Location: Delta State
Notes: Admission is easier in less competitive courses
3. Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK)
Cut-off Mark: 140+
Type: State University
Location: Nasarawa State
Notes: Offers wide range of courses with moderate competition
4. Federal University, Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA)
Cut-off Mark: 140+
Type: Federal University
Location: Katsina State
Notes: Accepts low scores for most courses
5. Benue State University (BSU)
Cut-off Mark: 150+
Type: State University
Location: Benue State
Notes: Accepts 140–150 for some programs
6. Kogi State University (KSU)
Cut-off Mark: 140–150
Type: State University
Location: Kogi State
7. Rivers State University (RSU)
Cut-off Mark: 150
Type: State University
Location: Rivers State
8. Abia State University (ABSU)
Cut-off Mark: 140
Type: State University
Location: Abia State
9. Lagos State University (LASU) – For Special Programmes
Cut-off Mark: 160–170
Type: State University
Location: Lagos
Notes: Some part-time and diploma programs accept 140+
10. Taraba State University (TASU)
Cut-off Mark: 140
Type: State University
Location: Taraba State
11. Edo State University, Uzairue
Cut-off Mark: 140
Type: State University
Location: Edo State
12. Bayelsa Medical University
Cut-off Mark: 140–150
Type: State Medical University
Location: Bayelsa State
13. Private Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores (140–160)
Most private universities in Nigeria accept low JAMB scores for admission. Some examples:
Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu
Lead City University, Ibadan
Wellspring University, Benin
Caleb University, Lagos
Crescent University, Abeokuta
Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji
Novena University, Ogume
Madonna University, Okija
Courses You Can Study with Low JAMB Scores
Even if your score is low, some courses have lower competition and are easier to get into.
Popular examples include:
Educational Management
History and International Studies
Religious Studies
Environmental Biology
Botany
Sociology
Agric Economics
Library and Information Science
Avoid highly competitive courses like Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Law.
What If Your First Choice Doesn’t Accept Low Scores?
Use the JAMB Change of Course/Institution feature to switch to a school that matches your score. You can do this on the JAMB portal for a small fee.
Make sure to:
Confirm school’s current cut-off
Choose realistic course options
Act fast — before admission closes
Admission Tips If You Scored Below 180
Choose a less competitive school
Change to a realistic course
Apply to private or state universities
Perform well in Post-UTME if required
Consider pre-degree, JUPEB, or part-time
Check JAMB CAPS regularly for updates
Focus on your O’level result — some schools use it to screen candidates
Alternatives If No University Accepts Your Score
If you still don’t get admission, consider:
Polytechnics or Colleges of Education: Accept 100–120 and above
JUPEB/IJMB: Gain admission into 200 level via Direct Entry
NOUN or Distance Learning: Study without JAMB
Diploma/Pre-degree Programs: Bridge gap for university entry
These options are valid and recognized in Nigeria.
Summary Table: Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores in 2025
| University | Type | Minimum Cut-Off | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| AAU Ekpoma | State | 140 | Accepts most scores |
| DELSU | State | 150 | Course dependent |
| NSUK | State | 140 | Competitive edge possible |
| FUDMA | Federal | 140 | Friendly cut-off |
| BSU | State | 150 | Accepts low score for some |
| KSU | State | 140 | Flexible choices |
| RSU | State | 150 | Some courses above 150 |
| ABSU | State | 140 | Accepts many low scores |
| TASU | State | 140 | Low competition |
| Oduduwa University | Private | 140 | Admission with ease |
| Lead City University | Private | 140 | Flexible courses |
| Madonna University | Private | 140 | Open to various scores |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which universities accept 140 in JAMB 2025?
Some schools that accept 140 include Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Nasarawa State University (NSUK), Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA), and Oduduwa University.
Can I gain admission into a university with 150 JAMB score?
Yes. Universities like DELSU, BSU, and RSU accept 150, depending on your course. Many private universities also accept this score.
What courses can I study with a low JAMB score?
Courses like Sociology, Agric Economics, Religious Studies, Education, and Library Science are good options for low JAMB scores.
Do private universities accept low JAMB scores?
Yes, most private universities in Nigeria accept 140 and above. They are often more flexible in their admission process.
Is 160 a good JAMB score in 2025?
It’s considered average. While you may not get Medicine or Engineering, you can still gain admission in less competitive courses or schools.
What should I do if no university accepts my score?
Consider changing course or institution, apply to a polytechnic, take a diploma or pre-degree, or register for JUPEB/IJMB to gain 200-level entry.
Final Thoughts on Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores in 2025
Scoring low in JAMB is not the end of your academic dreams. With the right strategy and correct information, you can still gain admission into a recognized Nigerian university in 2025.
There are many universities that accept low JAMB scores, and by being flexible, proactive, and informed, you’ll find the best path for yourself. Don’t waste the opportunity — apply smart, act fast, and choose wisely.