MINIMUM UTME SCORE IS NOT SAME AS UNIVERSITY CUT-OFF MARK, EDUCATION MINISTER CLARIFIES

MINIMUM UTME SCORE IS NOT SAME AS UNIVERSITY CUT-OFF MARK, EDUCATION MINISTER CLARIFIES

Legitdan News reports that Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, has clarified that the Minimum Tolerable UTME Score approved during the 2026 JAMB Admission Policy Meeting is different from the actual cut-off marks set by institutions.

According to the Minister, the approved benchmark only represents the minimum score below which institutions are not permitted to admit candidates.

He explained that universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education still retain the right to determine their own admission cut-off marks based on factors such as competition, course requirements, and available admission spaces.

Using an example, the Minister noted that if the approved minimum benchmark is 150, institutions are not compelled to admit candidates with that score.

He added that schools can independently fix higher cut-off marks such as 180, 200, or more depending on the programme and admission conditions.

The clarification comes amid public reactions and confusion following the release of approved benchmark scores for the 2026/2027 admission exercise.

Stakeholders at the meeting emphasized that candidates should always confirm the specific admission requirements of their chosen institutions and courses before applying.