The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination is a significant milestone for students aspiring to enter higher institutions in Nigeria.
It’s a pivotal point that can shape one’s academic and career trajectory. However, not all students achieve the high scores they aim for, and this can be a source of stress and uncertainty about their educational future.
But here’s a silver lining: a low JAMB score is not the end of the road. There are numerous courses available that accept lower scores, providing an alternative route to higher education and a fulfilling career.
This blog post delves into the options available for students who find themselves in this situation.
Embracing Alternative Opportunities
The reality is that every year, thousands of students face the challenge of not meeting the cut-off marks for their desired courses. This doesn’t mean that their academic journey has to come to a halt. Instead, it’s an opportunity to explore other interesting and viable courses that align with different cut-off ranges.
Courses That Low JAMB Scores
Here’s a list of courses that students with lower JAMB scores can consider for the 2024/2025 academic session:
Arts Courses
The art courses below are acceptable in universities for candidates with JAMB scores between 140 – 180. For polytechnics, candidates with scores between 100 – 120 are eligible.
- Theatre Arts
- Arabic and Islamic Studies
- Christian Religious Studies
- English and Literary Studies
- Fine and Applied Arts (Creative Arts)
- Yoruba and Communication Arts
- Foreign Languages (French, Chinese) and Literature
- History
- Linguistics and Nigerian Languages
- Music
- Theatre and Film Studies
- Guidance and Counselling
Science courses
The science courses below are acceptable in universities for candidates with JAMB scores between 140 – 180. For polytechnics, candidates with scores between 100 – 120 are eligible as well.
- Fisheries
- Agricultural science
- Forest Resources Management or Forestry
- Home Science and Nutrition
- Soil Science
- Animal Science
- Botany
- Anatomy
- Marine Biology
Social Science and Management
The courses below are acceptable in universities for candidates with JAMB scores between 150 – 180. For polytechnics, candidates with scores between 100 – 120 are also eligible.
- Insurance
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Marketing
- Agricultural Economics
- Accountancy
- Business Management
- Actuarial Science
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Estate Management
- Health Administration and Management
Education
The courses below are acceptable in universities for candidates with JAMB scores between 140 – 180. For polytechnics, candidates with scores between 100 – 120 are also eligible.
- Arts Education
- Health Education
- Computer Science Education
- Economics Education
- Mathematics Education
- Physics Education
- Religious Studies Education
- Biology Education
- Chemistry Education
- English Language Education
- Guidance And Counselling Education
- Yoruba/Igbo/Hausa Language Education
Federal Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores
These universities accept JAMB scores of 140 and above:
- Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State
- Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa State
- Federal University Dutse, Jigawa State
- Federal University Wukari, Taraba State
- Federal University of Lafia, Nassarawa State
- University of Maiduguri, Borno State
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto
State Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores
These universities also accept JAMB scores of 140 and above:
- Cross River State University of Technology, Calabar
- Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki
- Ekiti State University
- Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu
- Gombe State Univeristy, Gombe
- Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai
- Ignatius Ajuru University of Education,Rumuolumeni
- Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye
- Lagos State University, Ojo
- Niger Delta University, Yenagoa
- Nasarawa State University, Keffi
- Plateau State University, Bokkos
NOTE: Admission also depends on your Post-UTME aggregate score compared to the required point score, which the institution and department determine. The aggregate score involves a point system that combines the O’ levels and JAMB scores.
Steps to Take After Receiving Your JAMB Score
If you’ve received a lower-than-expected JAMB score, don’t despair. Here are some steps you can take to navigate your next moves:
- Know Your School’s JAMB Cut-off Mark: Find out the cut-off mark for your school of choice for the current year. This will help you understand your eligibility for admission.
- Consider a Change of Course or Institution: If your score is low, consider switching to courses or institutions with lower cut-off marks to increase your chances of securing admission.
- Prepare for Post-UTME Exams or Online Screening: All qualified candidates are eligible for Post UTME screening at their chosen institution. Preparing for this is crucial, as it could significantly impact your admission prospects.
Conclusion
A low JAMB score is not an insurmountable barrier. It’s a detour that can lead to unexpected and rewarding educational experiences. By considering the courses listed above and taking proactive steps after receiving your score, you can still achieve your academic goals and embark on a successful career path.
Remember, every cloud has a silver lining, and in the world of academics, there are always alternatives waiting to be explored. Embrace the journey, and you may find yourself on a path that’s just as fulfilling, if not more so, than the one you initially set out on.