When will JAMB release 2025 admission cut-off marks? Here’s what you need to know

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has confirmed that the 2025 admission cut-off marks for universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and monotechnics will be released on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. Announced via the official JAMB X account, this update signals the final key milestone for UTME candidates nationwide. This article outlines everything you need to know about the announcement, the cut-off process, and what candidates should prepare next.

Scheduled Policy Meeting on July 8

JAMB’s annual policy meeting, scheduled for July 8, 2025, at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja, is when the admission benchmarks will be formally ratified. During this meeting, representatives from tertiary institutions across Nigeria will collaborate to review and approve minimum Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) scores required for admission into 2025/2026 academic programs.

Attendees and Live Coverage

Attendance at the meeting is limited to invited stakeholders, including vice-chancellors, rectors, and provosts. However, the public can access live coverage through JAMB’s social media channels, ensuring transparency in the decision-making process.

Institutions Covered by Cut-Off Marks

The cut-off marks will apply to a wide range of institutions: federal and state universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and monotechnics. These scores represent the minimum acceptable UTME marks, but individual institutions may set higher thresholds to manage competitive admission pools.

Why July 8 Marker Matters to Candidates

For UTME candidates, the July 8 announcement is crucial. It triggers the admission application timeline, signaling the start of institution-specific Post-UTME screening, deadline tracking, and final placement decisions. Without knowing the cut-off, applicants cannot gauge their eligibility or prepare application materials, making this date essential planning criterion.

JAMB Registrar’s Confirmation

Registrar Professor Ishaq Oloyede officially confirmed the date via JAMB’s X handle, noting the meeting will also reveal the top-performing UTME candidates. This dual announcement enhances transparency and helps recognize outstanding student performance.

How Cut-Off Marks Are Determined

During the policy meeting, JAMB and tertiary institution leaders analyze UTME performance data, available capacity, and issues from previous admission cycles. National baseline standards typically mirror those from 2024, 140 for universities and 100 for polytechnics/colleges of education, but this is subject to upward adjustments based on current demand and performance metrics.

Bearing on Institutional Autonomy

Institutions retain the power to adopt cut-off marks above JAMB’s benchmark to manage enrolment pressures. However, they cannot go below the national minimum. After July 8, each school will communicate Post-UTME requirements and screening timelines, enabling candidates to tailor their preparation effectively.

Post-Cut-Off Next Steps for Candidates

Once JAMB releases the cut-off, candidates should:

• Compare their UTME scores against the announced thresholds.
• Visit target institution websites for Post-UTME registration deadlines.
• Organize academic records and exam results (WAEC, NECO).
• Update JAMB CAPS to accept admission offers when they arrive.

These steps ensure alignment with admission timelines and maximize chances of securing placements.

Cut-Off Announcement Drives Public Reaction

Social media and educational forums have been buzzing, with UTME candidates and parents expressing both anticipation and anxiety. Queries range from anticipated mark thresholds to questions about registration processes. Educators often advise maintaining minimum scores plus buffer to compensate for higher institutional thresholds.

Looking Back at Previous Cut-Off Trends

Historical data shows cut-off marks have traditionally hovered around 140 (university) and 100 (polytechnic). However, competitive courses in top schools often require significantly higher scores, sometimes above 200, due to oversubscription and space limitations. This year’s candidates are urged to monitor both national and institutional updates closely.

With JAMB set to announce the 2025 admission cut-off marks on July 8, 2025, candidates are on the cusp of the next critical phase in their academic journey. Understanding this timeline, the stakes involved, and strategic next steps can make the difference between admission success and disappointment. As the clock counts down, UTME candidates should stay informed, prepared, and ready to act once the benchmarks are officially released.