JAMB Cut Off Mark for Engineering: What You Must Know in 2025
If you plan to study engineering at a Nigerian university, one of the most important things you must know is the JAMB cut off mark for engineering. This figure determines whether you can apply for your dream course in top universities like UNILAG, UI, FUTMINNA, etc. The JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) annually releases general cut-off marks for all disciplines. However, each university sets specific departmental cut-off marks, especially for competitive courses like engineering.
This blog post will explore the official JAMB cut-off mark for engineering courses across Nigerian institutions for the 2025/2026 admission session. We’ll also discuss the factors that influence these scores, the role of post-UTME, and tips on increasing your admission chances.
Photo credit: PUNCH NG
What Is a JAMB Cut Off Mark?
A JAMB cut off mark is the minimum score a candidate must obtain in the UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) to qualify for post-UTME screening or admission into a particular institution. It serves as the baseline requirement.
The general JAMB cut-off mark for universities in 2025 is 140; for polytechnics, it’s 100, and for colleges of education, it’s 100. However, most top federal universities require much higher scores for engineering courses—sometimes as high as 250 or above.
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Why Is the Cut Off Mark for Engineering Higher?
Engineering is one of the most competitive fields in Nigerian universities. Several factors contribute to the high cut-off marks for engineering courses:
- High number of applicants
- Limited number of available slots
- Course popularity
- Institutional standards
- Academic rigor required
These factors push universities to set higher departmental cut-off marks to screen out underqualified candidates early.
General JAMB Cut Off Mark for Engineering in 2025
JAMB does not assign individual course cut-offs but provides a national minimum benchmark. For 2025, the general guideline is:
- Universities: 140
- Polytechnics: 100
- Colleges of Education: 100
However, top universities go beyond this to set departmental cut-off marks for engineering courses. Below, we’ve compiled a detailed list from top-performing institutions.
Departmental JAMB Cut Off Mark for Engineering Courses in Top Nigerian Universities (2025)
1. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
UNILAG is one of the most sought-after engineering universities in Nigeria. Here are the likely departmental cut-off marks for 2025:
Engineering Course Cut-Off Mark
Mechanical Engineering 250
Electrical/Electronics Eng. 255
Civil Engineering 248
Chemical Engineering 250
Computer Engineering 260
2. University of Ibadan (UI)
UI sets high standards, and its engineering courses reflect this in their admission requirements.
Engineering Course Cut-Off Mark
Mechanical Engineering 250
Civil Engineering 245
Electrical Engineering 252
Petroleum Engineering 255
3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
OAU has a strong reputation in engineering education. The cut-off marks for 2025 may follow the trend below:
Engineering Course Cut-Off Mark
Mechanical Engineering 240
Electrical/Electronics Eng. 245
Civil Engineering 238
Chemical Engineering 242
4. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
FUTA attracts thousands of engineering hopefuls annually as a university focused on science and technology.
Engineering Course Cut-Off Mark
Electrical Engineering 230
Civil Engineering 225
Mechanical Engineering 228
Metallurgical Engineering 215
5. Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)
FUTMINNA is known for its practical-oriented engineering programs.
Engineering Course Cut-Off Mark
Civil Engineering 220
Mechanical Engineering 230
Electrical Engineering 235
Computer Engineering 240
6. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
UNN is another highly ranked institution with excellent engineering faculties.
Engineering Course Cut-Off Mark
Electrical Engineering 250
Civil Engineering 245
Mechanical Engineering 248
7. Lagos State University (LASU)
While LASU is a state university, its engineering program has grown significantly.
Engineering Course Cut-Off Mark
Mechanical Engineering 230
Civil Engineering 225
Electronics Engineering 235
Engineering Cut Off Marks in Polytechnics (2025)
For students who may not meet university cut-off marks but still want to pursue engineering, polytechnics offer a practical alternative. Here are the cut-off marks for top polytechnics:
Polytechnic General Cut-Off Engineering Cut-Off
Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) 100 120 – 150
Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro 100 120 – 140
Auchi Polytechnic 100 130 – 150
Federal Polytechnic, Nekede 100 120 – 140
Private Universities Offering Engineering
Private universities typically set their own criteria, often slightly lower, to encourage more applicants.
Private University Suggested Cut-Off for Engineering
Covenant University 200
Babcock University 180
Afe Babalola University 180
Landmark University 180
JAMB Cut Off Mark for Engineering by Course Specialization
Not all engineering courses are equal in terms of competitiveness. Here’s a general overview:
Course Specialization Typical Range
Mechanical Engineering 240 – 260
Electrical/Electronics Eng. 245 – 265
Civil Engineering 230 – 250
Computer Engineering 250 – 270
Petroleum Engineering 250 – 275
Chemical Engineering 240 – 260
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How to Beat the Engineering Cut-Off Mark
If you’re aiming for a top engineering school, here are proven strategies to increase your chances:
1. Aim High in UTME
Don’t settle for average scores. Aim for 260 and above to have a good shot at competitive programs.
2. Perform Well in Post-UTME
Some schools weigh post-UTME scores heavily. Score high to balance any UTME shortcomings.
3. Choose Less Competitive Universities
Consider universities with slightly lower cut-off marks but accredited programs. This increases your chances of admission.
4. Use the JAMB Change of Institution Option Wisely
If you scored below your dream school’s cut-off, use the JAMB portal to switch to schools where your score fits better.
5. Prepare Early
Start preparing months before the UTME. Use JAMB past questions, register for CBT training, and take mock tests.
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Conclusion
Studying engineering is a noble and promising decision. However, gaining admission to this competitive field requires excellent preparation, good decision-making, and an understanding of the JAMB cut off mark for engineering. While JAMB provides a general minimum score, your dream university might expect much more. The higher your score, the better your chances of landing a spot in a top-tier engineering program.
FAQs About JAMB Cut Off Mark for Engineering
Q: Can I study engineering with a JAMB score of 180?
Yes, but only in select private universities or polytechnics. Most public universities won’t accept students with engineering degrees below 220.
Q: Does JAMB decide the final cut-off mark?
No. JAMB sets the general minimum, but individual universities set their departmental cut-offs.
Q: Is post-UTME still necessary?
Many universities still conduct post-UTME to screen candidates for engineering programs further.