The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has reiterated that securing a high score in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) does not automatically guarantee admission into Nigerian universities and polytechnics.
In a statement issued on Sunday, February 9, 2025, JAMB spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, emphasized that university admissions are based on multiple factors, including O’level results, UTME scores, and post-UTME performance.
Admission Based on Holistic Criteria
According to JAMB, universities and polytechnics do not admit students solely based on their UTME scores. Instead, they consider several admission factors such as:
- Merit ranking
- Catchment area policy
- Quotas for Educationally Less Developed States (ELDS)
“A high UTME score alone does not secure admission. Universities consider various criteria, including ranking based on merit, catchment areas, and ELDS quotas,” the statement read.
Candidates’ Complaints Addressed
JAMB’s response follows concerns from candidates and parents who alleged that some universities were denying admission to students despite their high UTME scores.
One case cited involved Godwin Nsan, who accused the University of Calabar of unfairly rejecting his son. JAMB’s investigation, however, showed that the candidate, despite scoring 201 in UTME, had an aggregate score of 34%, which was below the university’s minimum cut-off marks of 55% for merit-based admission and 35% for other categories.
Similarly, another candidate who scored 345 in UTME alleged that the University of Jos (UniJos) denied him admission. However, after a review at JAMB’s headquarters, it was revealed that the candidate ranked 86th, while the university had only 68 available merit-based admission slots. The candidate’s father later accepted the explanation and apologized.
JAMB Urges Parents to Understand the Admission Process
JAMB has advised parents and candidates to understand that admission is competitive and must follow a structured ranking process.
“In some universities, a UTME score of 345 may still rank a candidate as low as 300, depending on the institution’s capacity and competition,” JAMB noted.
The Board also encouraged candidates to seek clarification through appropriate channels instead of making unfounded allegations.
How Candidates Can Challenge Admission Decisions
JAMB reminded candidates that they could challenge admission decisions through its official ‘ticketing platform’, which allows for inquiries and appeals.
Meanwhile, JAMB disclosed that a senior university official is currently being prosecuted for alleged admission fraud, while four others are under investigation.
Commitment to Fair Admissions
JAMB reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for admission irregularities and assured Nigerians that it remains dedicated to a fair and transparent selection process.
“We will take decisive action against any institution or individual found engaging in questionable practices,” JAMB stated.