Admission into the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) is highly competitive, and one of the key factors that determine eligibility is the cut off mark. The cut off mark serves as a minimum score that candidates must attain in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Post-UTME to qualify for admission.
Understanding how UNN determines cut off marks, the required scores for different courses, and what to do if you fall short is crucial for every aspiring student.
This guide provides detailed information on the UNN cut off mark for 2025/2026 academic session and how to increase your chances of gaining admission.
What is a Cut Off Mark?
A cut off mark is the minimum score a candidate must obtain in an entrance exam to qualify for admission into a school. It acts as a benchmark to filter applicants based on their performance. Universities in Nigeria use the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) scores and Post-UTME results to determine cut off marks.
University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) Cut Off Mark 2025/2026 Academic Session
For the 2025/2026 academic session, UNN has set a general cut off mark of 160 for most courses. However, some courses have higher cut off marks due to high demand. Candidates who meet or exceed the required cut off mark for their chosen course will proceed to the next stage of the admission process.
How is UNN Cut Off Mark Determined?
UNN considers several factors when setting its cut off mark:
- JAMB’s General Cut Off – JAMB provides a general cut off mark for universities each year.
- Number of Applicants – Courses with a high number of applicants often have higher cut off marks.
- Previous Year’s Cut Off Marks – The university reviews past admission trends to decide the new cut off mark.
- Departmental Demand – Some faculties require higher scores due to the nature of their programs.
- Overall Performance in JAMB – If students perform well in JAMB, the cut off mark may increase.
Post-UTME Screening and Aggregate Score Calculation
Meeting the cut off mark allows candidates to sit for UNN’s Post-UTME screening. The university calculates the aggregate score by combining the JAMB score and Post-UTME result:
- JAMB Score (60%) – Multiply the JAMB score by 0.6.
- Post-UTME Score (40%) – Multiply the Post-UTME score by 0.4.
- Total Aggregate Score = (JAMB score/400 × 60) + (Post-UTME score/100 × 40).
For example:
- If a candidate scores 250 in JAMB: 250 × 0.6 = 150.
- If they score 70 in Post-UTME: 70 × 0.4 = 28.
- Aggregate Score = 150 + 28 = 178.
- If the departmental cut off mark is 200, they do not qualify.
What to Do If You Don’t Meet the Cut Off Mark
If your score is below the required cut off mark, consider these options:
- Apply for a Less Competitive Course – Some courses have lower cut off marks.
- Consider a Change of Institution – You can switch to a university with a lower requirement.
- Prepare for Next Year – Retake JAMB and aim for a higher score.
- Explore Direct Entry Options – If you have an ND, NCE, or IJMB, you can apply through direct entry.
UNN Departmental Cut Off Marks for All Courses (2025/2026)
UNN assigns different cut off marks to each department. Below are estimated cut off marks based on past trends:
Courses | Cut off Mark |
|---|---|
Agricultural Economics | 180 |
Agricultural Extension | 180 |
Animal Science | 180 |
Crop Science | 180 |
Food Science and Technology | 200 |
Home Science and Nutrition | 180 |
Soil Science | 180 |
Archaeology | 180 |
Dramatic Arts | 180 |
English | 190 |
Fine and Applied Arts | 180 |
History | 180 |
Foreign Languages and Literatures | 180 |
Linguistics and Nigerian Languages | 180 |
Mass Communication | 200 |
Music | 180 |
Biochemistry | 200 |
Microbiology | 190 |
Plant Science and Biotechnology | 180 |
Zoology and Environmental Biology | 180 |
Accountancy | 200 |
Banking and Finance | 190 |
Management | 190 |
Marketing | 180 |
Adult Education and Extra-Mural Studies | 180 |
Arts Education | 180 |
Science Education | 180 |
Health and Physical Education | 180 |
Library and Information Science | 180 |
Vocational Teacher Education | 180 |
Agricultural and Bioresources Engineering | 190 |
Civil Engineering | 200 |
Electrical Engineering | 200 |
Electronic Engineering | 200 |
Mechanical Engineering | 200 |
Architecture | 190 |
Estate Management | 180 |
Surveying and Geoinformatics | 180 |
Urban and Regional Planning | 180 |
Medical Laboratory Sciences | 200 |
Medical Rehabilitation | 190 |
Nursing Sciences | 200 |
Radiography | 200 |
Law | 220 |
Medicine and Surgery | 250 |
Dentistry | 240 |
Pharmacy | 230 |
Computer Science | 200 |
Geology | 190 |
Mathematics | 180 |
Physics and Astronomy | 180 |
Pure and Industrial Chemistry | 180 |
Statistics | 180 |
Economics | 190 |
Geography | 180 |
Philosophy | 180 |
Political Science | 190 |
Psychology | 180 |
Religion | 180 |
Sociology and Anthropology | 180 |
Veterinary Medicine | 220 |
Additional Tips for Admission Success
- Score High in JAMB – Aim for 250+ for competitive courses.
- Prepare for Post-UTME – Many candidates meet the JAMB cut off but fail Post-UTME.
- Pick the Right Course – If your score is not very high, choose courses with moderate competition.
- Have All Required Documents – Ensure your O’Level results and other necessary documents are ready.
- Stay Updated – Check UNN’s official website for any changes in cut off marks.
The general cut off mark for UNN is 160, but some courses have higher requirements.
The aggregate score is determined by taking 60% of the JAMB score and 40% of the Post-UTME score.
You can apply for a less competitive course, consider a change of institution, or retake JAMB.
No, meeting the cut off mark makes you eligible, but admission depends on competition and available slots.
No, UNN requires both JAMB and Post-UTME scores for admission.No, UNN requires both JAMB and Post-UTME scores for admission.
The departmental cut off marks are usually released after the Post-UTME screening.
The cut off mark for Medicine and Surgery is typically 290 or higher.
Yes, but only for courses with a general cut off mark of 160.
There is no limit to the number of times you can take JAMB, as long as you meet the age and eligibility criteria.
Study past questions, focus on key subjects, and practice time management during the exam.
Conclusion
The UNN cut off mark is an important factor in gaining admission. While the general cut off mark is 160, competitive courses require much higher scores. Meeting the cut off mark does not guarantee admission, but a higher score increases your chances. If you do not meet the required mark, consider other options such as choosing a different course, changing institutions, or retaking JAMB. Stay prepared and work hard to secure your admission.