Are you wondering if you can gain admission into a federal university in Nigeria with a JAMB score of 120? If you’re among the many candidates who scored 120 in the 2025 UTME, you’re probably searching for federal universities that will accept your score. This blog post will clear up the confusion and explain what options are realistically available for you.

Federal Universities Accept 120 Cut-Off Mark

JAMB 2025/2026 Official Cut-Off Marks

Each year, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) sets a minimum cut-off mark for admissions into tertiary institutions in Nigeria. These minimum benchmarks guide universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

For the 2025/2026 admission cycle, JAMB has approved the following general cut-off marks:

• Federal and State Universities: 140

• Polytechnics: 100

• Colleges of Education: 100

• Innovative Enterprise Institutions: 100

This means that no federal university in Nigeria is allowed to admit candidates with a UTME score lower than 140.

Can I Get Admission Into Any Federal University with 120?

No, you cannot gain admission into any federal university with a JAMB score of 120 for the 2025/2026 session. The minimum score accepted for universities is 140, as mandated by JAMB. Federal institutions strictly adhere to this policy.

Even in past years where institutions had more freedom to set their own benchmarks (like in 2017), most federal universities still chose 180 or higher for their competitive courses.

Why the Confusion?

Over the years, several blog posts and rumors have circulated online claiming that some federal universities accept scores as low as 120. These claims are often:

• Based on outdated information.

• Referring to polytechnics or private universities, not federal universities.

• Meant to drive traffic without providing accurate data.

As of the current 2025/2026 academic session, no federal university has published any admission guidelines accepting 120 as a valid UTME score.

What Are My Options If I Scored 120?

Scoring 120 doesn’t mean your academic journey has ended. Here are realistic and attainable pathways to continue your education:

1. Apply to a Polytechnic

Polytechnics in Nigeria are excellent for technical and vocational education and accept 100 as the minimum UTME score. Some good polytechnics you can consider include:

• Federal Polytechnic, Nekede

• Rufus Giwa Polytechnic

• Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti

• Auchi Polytechnic

• Yaba College of Technology (often higher than 100 but still lower than universities)

These institutions offer National Diploma (ND) programs which can later serve as a bridge to university through Direct Entry.

2. Consider a College of Education

If you’re interested in teaching or education-related careers, consider:

• Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka

• College of Education, Zuba

• Adeyemi College of Education

They accept UTME scores of 100 and above and offer NCE certificates which also qualify you for university admission through Direct Entry.

3. Look Into Private Universities

Some private universities may accept 120 for certain programs. However, be aware that:

• Tuition is often significantly higher.

• Not all private universities are accredited or offer high academic quality.
  Always verify their accreditation status through the National Universities Commission (NUC) before applying.

4. Try IJMB, JUPEB, or Pre-degree Programs

Several universities offer pre-degree, IJMB, or JUPEB programs that let you gain admission without needing to sit for UTME again. These programs typically last one year and allow direct entry into 200 level after completion.

The key is to choose wisely, prepare well, and don’t give up.

Frequently Asked Questions About Federal Universities Accept 120 Cut-Off Mark

1. Can I get into a university with 120?

No. For the 2025/2026 admission year, the minimum UTME score for universities (federal and state) is 140.

2. What schools accept 120?

Polytechnics, Colleges of Education, and some private universities may accept 120. No federal university accepts it.

3. Can I still go to university if I scored 120?

Yes — but through alternate pathways like IJMB, JUPEB, polytechnic ND + Direct Entry, or pre-degree programs.

4. Should I rewrite JAMB?

If your score is far below 140 and you’re aiming for a federal university, rewriting JAMB might be your best option.

Conclusion

Don’t be misled by false claims online. The truth for 2025/2026 is clear: federal universities require a minimum UTME score of 140. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Polytechnics, Colleges of Education, and bridge programs can still help you build a strong academic future.